The 2027 Toyota Corolla is just around the corner, with the world's most popular car of all time preparing for a significant generational change.
Toyota is expected to unveil the new Corolla in the second half of 2026, ahead of deliveries in the first half of the following year, reports the Telegraph.
The Japanese car giant introduced the next-generation model with a concept, displayed at the 2025 Tokyo Motor Show - revealing a striking design with a full-width LED light bar and curved sides, perhaps borrowing some influence from the Hyundai i30.
Digital artist Theottle has reimagined the Corolla concept as a production car, with the sedan borrowing its signature light signature but with softer body lines and more traditional pull-down door handles.
Expected to be based on Toyota's TNGA platform, the vehicle will be produced with several powertrains, including a 1.5-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine producing 70kW - with performance to be improved using hybrid technology.
The Corolla's current 1.8-liter hybrid engine could also continue, while buyers could also be given the option of an electric powertrain for the first time.
There's a strong chance the GR Corolla will continue for the new model year and could gain Toyota's highly anticipated 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine - destined to be used across the company's upcoming Gazoo Racing lineup, such as the mid-engined MR2.
According to Lance Scott, head of Toyota's European design center, owners will get the same cabin and trunk space "regardless of powertrain."
“We wanted to create a Corolla that people would look at and think, ‘Oh, I can’t believe it’s a Corolla,’” Scott told CarExpert in October 2025.
"The body type for us is not important – it's what we wanted to express as a clear design direction for the future of Corolla. The dramatic proportions – they are leading not only to functional design through visibility, but also to dramatic design. Also, the space inside, trying to think about what each occupant needs," he added.
While Toyota has sold more than 50 million units over the past six decades - making it the most popular model in history - the Corolla has fallen out of the top 10 best-selling cars locally, but remains Australia's favourite small car for under $45,000.
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