Toyota’s long-running and popular Corolla Sedan is set to undergo a long-awaited full model change in 2026. For those considering purchasing the current model or wondering whether they should wait for the new model, we’ll provide a detailed explanation based on the latest information.
Release date of the new Corolla Sedan (13th generation)
Release date: 2026
Toyota plans to fully redesign the new Corolla sedan (13th generation) in 2026, and it is expected to undergo significant evolution from the current model. The current 12th generation model was released in 2019, and this will be the first complete overhaul in about seven years.
Notable new generation engine technology
Toyota’s 1.5L inline 4-cylinder engine under development
Evolution to an inline 4-cylinder 1.5L engine
The most notable feature of the new Corolla Sedan is the adoption of a new generation inline 4-cylinder 1.5L engine .
Differences from the current model:
- Current model : Inline 3-cylinder 1.5L “Dynamic Force Engine” (120ps/14.8kgm)
- New model : Inline 4-cylinder 1.5L engine (estimated 130ps/15.0kgm)
Benefits of engine downsizing
The newly developed engine achieves groundbreaking compactness:
- Volume: 10% reduction
- Overall height: 10% reduction
This miniaturization allows:
- The bonnet position can be reduced
- Improved aerodynamic performance
- Vehicle layout optimization
- Improved driving performance
Compliance with Euro 7 regulations
It also complies with the strict Euro 7 emissions regulations that will be introduced in Europe from 2028 onwards . It is a next-generation engine that combines environmental friendliness with improved power output.
Evolution of hybrid systems
New hybrid specs (estimated)
Inline 4-cylinder 1.5L + electric motor hybrid
- Engine output: 100ps/14.0kgm
- Front motor: 100ps/19.0kgm
- Rear motor (4WD): 45ps/9.1kgm
Although the engine has been downsized from the current 1.8L hybrid to 1.5L, it is expected to achieve superior performance through improved efficiency of the entire system.
Significant improvement in fuel economy
Estimated fuel consumption value
- Hybrid : 33.0km/L (current: 30.2km/L)
- Gasoline : 21.5km/L (current: 19.4km/L)
With a fuel economy improvement of 2-3km/L , it is expected to achieve best-in-class fuel economy.
Evolution of design and equipment
Exterior Design
- Low hood position thanks to new-generation powertrain
- An advanced front mask with thin headlights
- New design that emphasizes aerodynamic performance
- Wide stance for a stable appearance
Latest infotainment
New AI-enabled infotainment system :
- Advanced voice recognition
- Conversational Interface
- Intuitive operability
safety equipment
Toyota Safety Sense (latest version) comes as standard:
- Pre-crash safety (day and night)
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Radar cruise control
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Intelligent Clearance Sonar
- Driver emergency response system
Pricing (forecast)
New price range
Starting price: From 2,350,000 yen (current price: From 2,279,200 yen)
The increase will be limited to around 100,000 yen, and it is expected to maintain its competitiveness as a mid-class sedan.
Grade composition (projected):
- Entry grade: from 2.35 million yen
- Mid-range model: from 2.6 million yen
- High-end grade: from 2.9 million yen
Current model vs. new model comparison chart
| item | Current (12th generation) | New model (13th generation) predictions |
|---|---|---|
| engine | Straight 3 1.5L + Straight 4 1.8L HV | Straight 4 1.5L + Straight 4 1.5L HV |
| Output (HV) | 140ps (system total) | 145ps (system total) expected |
| Fuel economy (HV) | 30.2km/L | Estimated fuel consumption: 33.0km/L |
| price | From 2,279,200 yen | Estimated price: from 2.35 million yen |
| Release year | 2019 | Scheduled for 2026 |
Should I wait for the new model? Decision points
People who should wait for the new model
✅ People who value the latest technology
- New Generation Engine Technology
- AI-enabled infotainment
- Latest safety equipment
✅Those who prioritize fuel efficiency
- Significant improvement of 2-3km/L
- Long-term maintenance cost reduction
✅Those looking for fresh designs
- Completely revamped exterior
- Advanced styling
Who should choose the current model?
If you need a car immediately
- We have to wait about two years for the new model
✅ Those who value price
- Expectations for increased discounts on current models
- Avoiding the risk of initial defects
✅Those who value achievements
- Reliability of current models
- Extensive after-sales service system
Comparison with competing models
Competitor in the same class
Honda Civic Sedan
- 1.5L turbo engine
- 182ps/24.5kgm
- Price: From 3.19 million yen
Nissan Sylphy
- 1.8L engine
- 131ps/17.7kgm
- Price: From 2.2 million yen
Mazda MAZDA3 Sedan
- 1.5L to 2.0L engine
- 155ps/20.3kgm (2.0L)
- Price: From 2.47 million yen
The new Corolla Sedan is expected to have an advantage over its competitors in terms of fuel economy and overall balance .
Suggestion on timing of purchase
Recommended timing by pattern
🚗 If you need it now (up to early 2025)
→ We recommend purchasing the current model
- Expectations for increased discounts
- Stable supply system
🚗 If you can wait a little longer (late 2025 to early 2026)
→ Wait until the new model is announced before making a decision
- Decision to be made after confirmation of official specifications
- Current model clearance price
🚗 For those who value the latest technology (late 2026 and later)
→ We recommend purchasing after the new model is released.
- After initial problems were resolved
- After stable supply starts
summary
The new Corolla Sedan, which is scheduled for a full model change in 2026, will boast new generation engine technology and significantly improved fuel efficiency .
Those who should wait for the new model:
- Emphasis on the latest technology and fuel efficiency
- Seeking freshness in design
- A waiting period of about 2 years is possible
Who should choose the current model?
- I need a car immediately
- Emphasis on price and performance
- I want to take advantage of discounts
The choice will depend on your personal needs and urgency . While the new model has its appeal, the current model is also a very accomplished product.
We recommend waiting until the official launch of the new model in late 2025 before making a final decision.
