New 2026 Toyota Corolla revealed with redesigned front and roomier cabin

Toyota has given one of the world’s most popular cars a noticeable update in China, with a redesigned front-end and a roomier cabin, though this exact version will not be sold in Australia.

The refreshed Toyota Corolla 2026 made its first public appearance at the Guangzhou Motor Show this week, ahead of a Chinese launch planned for December. Built through Toyota’s joint venture with FAW, this update extends the life of the 12th-generation Corolla in China and other select markets.

The new Chinese model features Toyota’s latest ‘hammer-head’ design, now seen on the RAV4, C-HR, Camry, and bZ4X. It comes with C-shaped LED headlights, a sportier front bumper, and new 17-inch wheels. The interior has also been overhauled, with a larger 12.9-inch touchscreen and redesigned centre console, giving passengers more space thanks to a 50mm longer wheelbase.

Under the bonnet, buyers can choose between a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 128kW or a 1.8-litre hybrid that uses a nickel manganese cobalt battery, producing around 103kW. Rear passengers benefit from extra legroom, while the boot capacity remains at 470 litres.

Australia will instead receive the next-generation Corolla, which Toyota showcased last month at the Japan Mobility Show. This version, produced in Japan, will offer hybrid, electric, and possibly hydrogen fuel-cell options, and is expected to reach showrooms in 2027.

Toyota continues to offer different Corolla versions across global markets. The facelifted Chinese model, referred to as “generation 12.5,” is a stopgap, keeping the current generation competitive while the new 13th-generation Corolla, previewed in Tokyo, moves the model towards a more modular and advanced design.

For Australian buyers, the most immediate news is the confirmed arrival of the GR Corolla hatch, Toyota’s performance-focused variant, which is due in early 2026. 

Pakistani buyers still waiting for new-generation Toyota Corolla

In Pakistan, many buyers are eagerly waiting for a redesign of the Toyota Corolla. However, Indus Motor Company has not changed the Corolla’s overall shape since 2014.

The company has introduced two facelifts since then, but these only brought minor updates, such as redesigned bumpers and slight changes to the front and rear lights. So far, there are no official reports or hints about when the new generation of the Corolla will be launched in Pakistan.