- Toyota’s new Corolla could debut its first plug-in hybrid, balancing efficiency and practicality.
- Under the hood, we expect to find a new 1.5-liter engine in different states of electrification.
- Rumors hint at a next-gen GR Corolla with a 400-horsepower turbocharged 2.0L engine.
The Tesla Model Y may be poised to dominate global car sales in 2024, but historic nameplates like the Volkswagen Golf and Toyota Corolla are still holding their own in many markets around the world. For Toyota, the focus has shifted to the next iteration of its compact sedan, with the 13th-generation Corolla expected to debut in 2026 (possibly as a 2027MY in North America), bringing with it a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain option.
Although we haven’t yet seen any prototypes of the upcoming Corolla testing on public roads, digital artist Theophilus Chin has stepped in to fill the void. His renderings offer a glimpse of what the next-generation compact sedan might look like, borrowing modern styling elements from Toyota’s bolder designs, including the Crown Sport.
More: Toyota Officially Confirms Celica’s Return
The next-gen Corolla may feature Toyota’s signature hammerhead-style front end, complete with elongated headlights, a slimmer grille, and sporty bumper intakes for a sharper, more modern appearance. Around the rear, these renderings propose a design influenced by the Crown, showcasing full-width taillight clusters and a sculpted tailgate. Although the illustrations stick with traditional door handles, it’s possible that Toyota could go for a more aerodynamic option, taking cues from the C-HR.
This isn’t the first time Theophilus Chin has tackled the next-gen Corolla. His earlier renderings in 2023 leaned toward a more upscale design. In any case, the interior of the compact model will likely benefit from a revamped digital cockpit, featuring a larger infotainment display and enhanced connectivity. Toyota is also expected to pack the Corolla with its latest advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), possibly as standard equipment.
Illustrations: Theottle
Underneath the updated styling, the new Corolla is expected to ride on an evolution of the current TNGA-C platform, shared with models like the C-HR, Corolla Cross, and Prius. The biggest change? The addition of a plug-in hybrid powertrain, which will be a first for the Corolla nameplate.
ICE, HEV, and PHEV Options
According to Best Car, Toyota’s upcoming 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine will serve as the heart of the lineup. In naturally aspirated form, it’s said to produce around 128 hp (96 kW/130 PS), while the turbocharged version could deliver up to 178 hp (132 kW/180 PS). This engine will likely feature in both traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) variants and a new self-charging hybrid (HEV) setup. The PHEV configuration is expected to include two electric motors for improved performance and efficiency.
A GR Corolla With Serious Power?
One wild card for the next-gen Corolla is whether it will inherit Toyota’s rumored 2.0-liter four-cylinder powertrain. This engine, allegedly destined for the revived Celica, could produce up to 400 hp (298 kW/406 PS). If that happens, it’s not hard to imagine a GR Corolla variant with serious performance credentials—though Toyota has yet to confirm anything.
When Can We Expect the New Corolla?
The current 12th-generation Corolla has been on the market since 2018, with a mild facelift arriving in 2022. Depending on the region, the sedan features unique styling, with the US-spec version adopting a sportier front end similar to the hatchback.
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Toyota has kept details about the 13th-generation Corolla under wraps, but a 2026 debut seems likely. The upcoming reveal of the new RAV4 later this year might offer clues about Toyota’s broader design direction for its next wave of models.