On September 17, Toyota Motor Corporation announced a full model change for its flagship "Corolla" (sedan) and "Corolla Touring" (wagon) models. The "Corolla Sports" (hatchback), which had been on pre-sale, also received minor improvements and went on sale the same day.

Since its debut in 1966, the Toyota Corolla has been a long-selling model, sold in over 150 countries and regions worldwide, with cumulative sales exceeding 47.5 million units. Last June, the hatchback "Corolla Sports" debuted as the 12th generation Corolla with a full model change. With the recent introduction of the "Corolla" (sedan) and "Corolla Touring" (wagon), the new generation Corolla lineup is now complete. While the global TNGA platform is adopted, the key feature of the two new models is their Japan-specific body size, tailored to the country's environment.

Furthermore, the use of the TNGA platform contributes to a low center of gravity and sporty styling, as well as a balance between driving enjoyment and ease of maneuverability. Enhanced safety features and expanded connected services are also selling points of the new Corolla.

The body dimensions of the new Corolla are 4,495mm in length, 1,745mm in width, and 1,435mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,640mm. The Touring's height is 1,460mm. Compared to the previous and overseas current models, the Corolla's dimensions show a change of +95mm/-135mm in length, +50mm/-35mm in width, -25mm/0mm in height, and +40mm/-60mm in wheelbase. For the Touring, the changes are +85mm/-155mm in length, +50mm/-45mm in width, -50mm/0mm in height, and +40mm/-60mm in wheelbase. This indicates a reduction in length, width, and wheelbase compared to the global model, while still being larger than the previous generation.

Additionally, by optimizing the mounting position of the door mirrors and the door opening angle, the vehicle width when mirrors are folded and the door opening width are kept similar to the previous model. The minimum turning radius is also maintained at 5.0 meters, the same as the previous model, demonstrating careful consideration for maneuverability in Japan's road conditions with the dedicated body.

The exterior features a low, sporty, and wide silhouette, achieved through features like the rounded, single-line LED headlamps, a large trapezoidal lower grille frame with a mesh grille, and the Touring's dynamic side profile. The interior, on the other hand, creates a sense of spaciousness by thinning and widening the instrument panel, while unifying the fit, shape, and texture of components to express a premium feel. The slim A-pillars also ensure good visibility.

The Touring model enhances its practicality as a wagon by offering a two-stage adjustable reversible deck board, accommodating long or tall items. The underside of the deck board is made of resin, making it durable for rough use.

There are three powertrain options: a THS II hybrid system with reduction gear (electric continuously variable transmission) using the 2ZR-FXE 1.8-liter engine; an 8NR-FTS 1.2-liter direct-injection turbo engine (with Super CVT-i 10-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic or 6-speed manual); and a 2ZR-FAE 1.8-liter engine (with Super CVT-i 7-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic). For the hybrid model, an E-Four electric 4WD option is also available.

Fuel economy according to WLTC mode is 29.0 km/l for hybrid models of both the sedan and wagon, 15.8 km/l for the 1.2-liter turbo, and 14.6 km/l for the 1.8-liter gasoline. The suspension features MacPherson struts at the front and double wishbones at the rear, pursuing a sense of security during cornering and stable running that grips the road. It promises a driving experience that makes you want to keep driving.

In terms of preventive safety, the latest "Toyota Safety Sense," capable of detecting bicycles and pedestrians at night, is standard equipment. On the connected front, all models come standard with Display Audio (DA), a first for the Toyota brand in Japan, allowing users to operate navigation apps and music services they use daily via the display by connecting their smartphones.

Pricing is as follows: Corolla starts at ¥2,403,500 to ¥2,948,000 for hybrid models, ¥2,409,000 for the 1.2-liter turbo, and ¥1,936,000 to ¥2,315,500 for the 1.8-liter gasoline. For the Corolla Touring, prices range from ¥2,480,500 to ¥2,997,500 for hybrid models, ¥2,458,500 for the 1.2-liter, and ¥2,013,000 to ¥2,365,000 for the 1.8-liter. The Corolla Sports is priced from ¥2,488,200 to ¥2,824,800 for hybrid models, and ¥2,169,200 to ¥2,747,800 for the 1.2 turbo.