2027 Toyota Corolla: Full Details on the 13th Gen Model, Features, Design & More
The Toyota Corolla has been a reliable and popular car around the world. The 12th generation (E210), which debuted in 2018 and is now nearing the end of its lifecycle. Speculation has intensified about the launch of the 13th generation. Toyota is set to launch the 13th-generation Corolla in 2026, with sales beginning as a 2027 model. This new Corolla will have powerful engines, high-tech interiors, modern design, and new safety features.
New Design and Exterior
The design of the 2027 Toyota Corolla will be much bolder and more modern than before. The new Corolla will reflect the influence of Toyota’s new design philosophy, influenced by models like the C-HR, Prius, and Camry. It may feature a T-shaped front grille, boomerang style LED headlights and aggressive body curves. The rear will have thin LED taillights, a new rear bumper and a more stylish look.
The new Corolla is expected to be available in three body styles: sedan, hatchback, and station wagon (Touring). However, the station wagon model will be available only in select markets, with Japan being its major market. Reports suggest that a high-performance GR version may also be introduced, but its availability will also be limited to markets.
Interior and Technology
Its interior will be completely redesigned and will likely be influenced by the layout of the Prius. It will have a large 12.3-inch infotainment display, fully digital instrument cluster and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. Additionally, Toyota may integrate generative AI technology, making voice commands smarter and enhancing their accuracy and response time.
Other features will include Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist, panoramic glass roof and larger trunk space, making it more practical.
Engine and Performance
The 2027 Toyota Corolla will see a major change in its engine options. The company is going to introduce a new 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which will come in two variants—a 128 horsepower naturally aspirated and a 178 horsepower turbocharged version.
Apart from this, an updated self-charging hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version will also be introduced, offering improved efficiency and performance with dual electric motors. These engines are expected to be compatible with carbon-neutral fuels and will provide better thermal efficiency.
GR Corolla – High-Performance Version
There is significant speculation about the upcoming GR Corolla. According to some reports, It may retain an updated 1.6-liter, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, which can have power of more than 300 horsepower.
Another possibility is a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, which will also be used in Toyota’s upcoming AWD Celica and other GR models. This engine can generate power up to 400 horsepower, but its tuning for the GR Corolla can be around 350 horsepower.
Toyota will retain the manual transmission in its GR models, as the company believes that about 80% of US buyers still prefer the manual variant.
Launch and Competition
The 2027 Toyota Corolla will be introduced in 2026 and its sales will start a few months after launch. This car will primarily compete with the Honda Civic, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, Volkswagen Golf and other premium compact sedans/hatchbacks.
While many automakers are withdrawing from the compact sedan segment, Toyota remains committed to this category. The new Corolla is expected to be a technologically advanced and performance-focused upgrade, which will make it even more attractive in the market.
