The 2026 Toyota Corolla will arrive in the next couple of months as a new-generation model. The upcoming model will likely include new features and updated styling with the same hatchback and sedan body styles. Power in the 2026 Corolla comes from the same 169-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with CVT and front-wheel drive. The GR Corolla version continues with the 300-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter 3-cylinder engine with standard all-wheel drive. Also standard is the 6-speed manual in the GR. But, rumors suggest Toyota might bring an automatic transmission for this sporty model in 2026.
As one of the best-selling compact cars, the Toyota Corolla has been my favorite for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. After the new 2025 model arrives with minimal changes, the 2026 Toyota Corolla will be a new model. It will compete with the Honda Civic, Mazda MAZDA3, and the Hyundai Elantra. As an all-new model, the 2026 Corolla will bring a fresh set of refreshed headlights and taillights. It will also have new interior features and tech.
2026 Corolla Design
The 2026 Toyota Corolla will receive a facelift, though it will largely retain the sharp and angular design language that has defined recent models.
Expect the 2026 model to have refreshed headlights and taillights, as well as subtle design tweaks. While the overall shape will remain largely recognizable, these updates will keep the Corolla competitive against newer offerings from rivals like the Honda Civic, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra.
Corolla Interior and Tech Updates
The 2026 Corolla interior will continue with its distinctive design. Highlights of the Corolla interior include a tiered dashboard, triangular air vents, and a slim row of physical controls beneath the infotainment screen.
Toyota could introduce new technology enhancements. The 2026 Toyota Corolla will have a new 10.5-inch touchscreen as an upgrade, but the base model is expected to retain its standard 8-inch display.
Standard tech features should include the 4.2-inch driver information display, Bluetooth, navigation, Four USD ports, Wi-Fi hotspot, Voice recognition, and a Satellite radio. The standard 8-inch infotainment screen will offer Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Optional features like a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, JBL audio system, and wireless charging pad will likely remain part of the lineup.
Power and Performance: No Major Changes Expected
Under the hood, the 2026 Corolla will retain the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine found in the 2025 model. This engine four-cylinder powertrain delivers 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque in the current model. Power goes to the front wheels via a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.
The high-performance GR Corolla will continue with its turbocharged 1.6-liter 3-cylinder engine. This engine makes an impressive 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual transmission are standard on the GR Corolla. However, rumors suggest Toyota may introduce an automatic transmission for this sporty model in 2026.
2026 Corolla Safety Features
The 2026 Corolla will likely carry forward the comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance features from the 2025 model.
Standard safety technologies should include adaptive cruise control, Pedestrian and cyclist detection, and Automatic high-beam assist. It will also come with a Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, Traffic sign recognition, Lane-keeping assist, and lane departure warning.
While blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are currently optional, these features could potentially become standard in 2026 to keep pace with competitors.
2026 Corolla Pricing
Pricing for the 2026 Toyota Corolla isn’t confirmed yet, but with the redesign, the price will likely increase.
For reference, the 2025 Corolla hatchback starts at $24,600 (including destination charges), while the mid-level Nightshade variant begins at $25,600.
The redesigned 2026 Corolla will likely see a slight uptick in pricing across the range.
2026 Toyota Corolla Release Date
The new 2026 Corolla will arrive at dealerships in 2025. Typically, the hatchback model arrives first, followed by the sedan. But, we will see if this release pattern will continue with the 2026 redesign.