- The next Corolla sedan and hatchback could introduce a new generation of the GR model.
- A new 2.0L turbo-four may replace the current 1.6L three-cylinder for improved performance.
- Toyota will likely update the Corolla on its existing platform, mirroring the Camry’s strategy.
The Toyota GR Corolla is one of the last great internal combustion hot hatches standing, a bright spot for driving enthusiasts in an SUV-dominated world. While the industry marches toward electrification, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division shows no signs of slowing down, meaning there’s a very good chance the GR Corolla gets another generation.
It may be too soon for official details, but that hasn’t stopped digital artist Theottle from picturing what the next model might bring to the table. The independent designer shared these renders with us, basing them on his previous digital sketches of a four-door Corolla sedan while also creating a version for the standard hatchback. Both adopt Toyota’s latest design language with sharper bodywork, though interestingly, they skip the hammerhead headlights
See: 2027 Toyota Corolla Could Launch Next Year With A Plug-In Hybrid Option
We’ll focus here on the GR Corolla, which sticks to the styling philosophy of the current model, featuring beefier bumpers, larger intakes, wider fenders, and a fresh set of alloy wheels. Additional upgrades over the standard Corolla hatchback include extra vents on the hood and functional side gills
At the rear, the design refines the formula with slimmer LED taillights, additional vents integrated into the bumper, and a more conventional dual-exit exhaust replacing the current model’s signature triple-tip setup. A sizable rear wing completes the look, reinforcing its WRC-inspired aesthetic.
Illustrations: Theottle
The greenhouse and the hardpoints are carried over from the current model, as the next-gen Corolla is expected to ride on an upgraded version of the same underpinnings. Toyota has taken a similar approach with several recent models, including the redesigned Camry sedan, and is likely to do the same with the next generations of the RAV4 SUV and Hilux midsize pickup.
Potential Powertrain Shake-Up
As for what will power it, that remains a mystery. Toyota could stick with the current turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder unit, or it might swap in the new 2.0-liter turbo-four that’s in development. The latter is expected to find its way into future Celica and MR2 revivals, with power outputs ranging from 296 hp (221 kW / 300 PS) to 395 hp (294 kW / 400 PS) in road-spec form.
More: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Spied In America, Might Go Hybrid-Only
For reference, the current GR Corolla uses a turbo 1.6-liter three-cylinder producing 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic. Power is sent to all four wheels through Toyota’s GR-Four AWD system.
When Is It Coming?
Illustrations: Theottle
The current 12th-generation Toyota Corolla was introduced in 2018, with a 13th-generation model rumored to arrive in 2026. However, given that the GR Corolla only launched in 2022, it’s unclear whether Toyota will update it alongside the standard model or hold off to keep it in sync with the rest of the performance lineup.
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Spy photos from September 2024 revealed lightly camouflaged prototypes of the GR Corolla going through development testing in Europe. While the test vehicles appear heavily based on the current model, they could be early mules, or perhaps something even more extreme, like a special, limited-run GRMN variant.
For now, Toyota isn’t revealing much, but if Gazoo Racing’s recent track record is anything to go by, the next GR Corolla should be worth the wait.