The 2027 Toyota Corolla is poised to make a significant impact as it prepares for a generational shift. With its unveiling anticipated in the latter half of 2026, the world’s best-selling car is set to enter a new era, with deliveries expected in early 2027.
The Japanese automotive giant offered a glimpse of the next-generation Corolla at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo. The concept car showcased a striking design, featuring a full-width LED light bar and sculpted flanks, reminiscent of the Hyundai i30 Sedan. This preview has sparked considerable excitement among car enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
Design and Engineering Innovations
Digital artist Theottle has taken the initiative to envision the Corolla concept as a production model. The design retains the concept’s distinctive light signature but introduces softer body lines and traditional door handles. This artistic interpretation highlights the potential for a harmonious blend of futuristic aesthetics and practical design.
The new Corolla is expected to be built on Toyota’s TNGA platform, a foundation known for its versatility and performance capabilities. The vehicle will likely offer multiple powertrain options, including a 1.5-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine producing 70kW and 120Nm. This engine’s performance is anticipated to be enhanced with hybrid technology, aligning with Toyota’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
Powertrain Options and Performance
In addition to the hybrid option, the current 1.8-litre hybrid engine might continue to be available, providing buyers with a familiar yet improved choice. Notably, the 2027 Corolla may offer an electric powertrain for the first time, marking a significant step forward in the model’s evolution.
The high-performance GR Corolla variant is expected to persist, potentially featuring Toyota’s eagerly awaited 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. This engine is slated for use across Toyota’s future Gazoo Racing lineup, including the anticipated mid-engined MR2.
Design Philosophy and Interior Space
Lance Scott, head of Toyota’s European design center, emphasized the brand’s innovative approach to the new Corolla. According to Scott, the design team aimed to create a vehicle that defies traditional expectations of the Corolla. “We wanted to create a Corolla which people looked at and thought ‘Oh, I can’t believe that’s a Corolla’,” Scott stated in an interview with CarExpert in October 2025.
“The body type for us is not important – it’s what we wanted to express as a pure design direction for the future of Corolla,” said Lance Scott.
Scott further explained that the design focuses on dramatic proportions that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. The interior space has been carefully considered to meet the needs of each occupant, ensuring comfort and practicality regardless of the chosen powertrain.
Market Position and Historical Context
While the Toyota Corolla has sold over 50 million units globally over the past six decades, it has recently slipped from the top 10 best-sellers list in some markets. Despite this, it remains Australia’s favorite small car priced under $45,000. The upcoming model aims to reinvigorate its position in the market with its innovative design and advanced technology.
The announcement of the 2027 Corolla comes at a time when the automotive industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with a growing emphasis on electrification and sustainable practices. Toyota’s strategic move to offer diverse powertrain options reflects its dedication to meeting evolving consumer demands and regulatory requirements.
Looking Ahead
As the 2027 Toyota Corolla prepares to enter the market, it represents a bold new chapter for the iconic model. The combination of cutting-edge design, versatile powertrains, and a commitment to sustainability positions the Corolla to capture the attention of a new generation of drivers.
With the official unveiling still months away, anticipation continues to build. Industry analysts and consumers alike are eager to see how Toyota will balance the Corolla’s storied heritage with the demands of a rapidly changing automotive landscape. As the countdown to its launch begins, the 2027 Corolla is set to redefine expectations and solidify its place in automotive history.
