While it looks like the rest of the world may have to wait a little longer for the thirteenth-generation model, the next-generation Toyota Corolla will reportedly arrive in the Japanese market in 2026. The domestic lineup of the Corolla, which is quite different from the versions sold in Europe and America, is set to continue with the Sedan, Touring (wagon), and Sport (hatchback) body styles, as per Japan’s Best Car magazine.
Interestingly, the publication has reported that the next-gen Corolla Touring will be the focus, available in three versions in Japan. While the base model would be a practical C-segment wagon with improved usability, fuel economy, and environmental performance, a crossover version is also in the pipeline.
Reminiscent of the Toyota Sprinter Carib, the Corolla Touring crossover version should have a higher ride height, increased ground clearance, and SUV styling cues. I’d assume that it would be comparable to Audi’s Allroad or Volvo’s Cross Country variant extensions. The Japanese publication sees Toyota positioning it as a rival to the Subaru Crosstrek.
The final version is a high-performance model which is expected to deliver sportier handling and stronger performance.
Styling is expected to adopt Toyota’s latest design language, possibly featuring slimmer headlights, a narrower upper grille, and a more sculpted lower intake. The cabin will likely offer improved materials, better refinement, and the latest safety features.
The hybrid version will switch to a new 1.5-litre petrol engine, producing 99 hp and 94 lb-ft of torque, paired with one or two electric motors depending on drivetrain layout, as per a Best Car report. According to another report from Best Car, the petrol engine could boast the highest thermal efficiency for any Toyota engine to date, approximately 45%.
For the first time, a plug-in hybrid Corolla is planned, using the same 1.5-litre engine but with a significantly larger battery. As per an announcement from 2023, Toyota is targeting a practical EV-only range exceeding 200 km (124 miles), and we’ll find out next year if the Corolla boasts of this impressive figure.
If released globally, the Corolla PHEV could become the most affordable Toyota plug-in hybrid model, positioned below the Prius.
Featured image: Corolla Touring (current-gen) Japanese spec
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
