Toyota’s popular station wagon, the Corolla Touring, is scheduled to undergo a full model change in 2026. The current model was released in 2019 and underwent a major minor change in 2022, but the new model is expected to be a fundamental evolution.
The new Corolla Touring will be the 13th generation, and is expected to feature a new generation engine, a revamped design, and significant improvements in environmental performance. For those currently considering purchasing one, the important decision will be, “Should I buy now or wait for the new model?”
Major changes to the new Corolla Touring
Fundamental changes to the engine
Toyota’s 1.5L inline 4-cylinder engine under development
The most notable change is the revamped powertrain, which will replace the current model’s inline 3-cylinder 1.5L engine with a newly developed inline 4-cylinder 1.5L engine.
New engine features:
- Inline 4-cylinder 1.5L gasoline engine: 130ps/15.0kgm
- 10% reduction in volume and 10% reduction in overall height
- Improved combustion efficiency increases output
- Compliant with stricter exhaust gas regulations “Euro 7” scheduled to be introduced in 2028
Evolution of hybrid systems
The hybrid model will also be significantly revised:
- Engine: Inline 4-cylinder 1.5L (100ps/14.0kgm)
- Front motor: 100ps/19.0kgm
- Rear motor (4WD): 45ps/9.1kgm
- Improved overall system efficiency
Improved fuel efficiency
The new model is expected to offer significant improvements in fuel economy:
- Hybrid: 32.0km/L (currently 29.5km/L)
- Gasoline: 21.0km/L (currently 19.1km/L)
Evolution of design and equipment
toyota prius 2023
Exterior Design
The new Corolla Touring’s new-generation powertrain allows for a lower hood position, improving aerodynamic performance and contributing to improved fuel economy.
Design highlights:
- A sophisticated front mask with thin headlights
- Wide stance for enhanced presence
- Elegant body lines that emphasize aerodynamic performance
- New crossover model settings
Interior and equipment
Adoption of the latest equipment:
- AI-enabled infotainment system
- Significantly improved voice recognition function
- Sporty seats
- Increased knee space in the rear seats
Significant evolution of advanced equipment and technology
AI-enabled infotainment system
Next-generation connected technology
- AI-powered voice recognition system
- Vehicle operation through natural conversation
- 12.3-inch large display (estimated)
- 5G communication compatible
Safety and support features
The evolution of Toyota Safety Sense
The new model comes standard with the latest active safety package:
Main features:
- Pre-crash safety (detects bicycles during the day and pedestrians at night)
- Radar cruise control
- Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Intelligent Clearance Sonar
- Parking Support Brake
- Proactive Driving Assist
Evolved TSS (anticipated equipment)
- Response to accidents when turning right or left at an intersection
- Nighttime bicycle and motorcycle detection
- Predicting pedestrian crossing intentions
- Proactive Driving Assist
- Driver emergency response system
Price and grade structure
Estimated Price
Prices for the new Corolla Touring are expected to increase slightly from the current model due to the inclusion of the latest technology:
- Starting price: 2.45 million yen (currently 2.35 million yen)
- The price increase is expected to be limited to around 100,000 yen.
Current model price (reference)
Hybrid model:
- HYBRID X: 2.35 million yen (FF) / 2.57 million yen (4WD)
- HYBRID G: 2.76 million yen (FF) / 2.98 million yen (4WD)
- HYBRID W×B: 3.13 million yen (FF) / 3.34 million yen (4WD)
Compliance with environmental regulations
Preparing for Euro 7 regulations
Compliance with the strict Euro 7 emissions regulations scheduled to be introduced in Europe from 2028 onwards is an important factor in the development of the new model.
Key points regarding regulatory compliance:
- Significant reduction in NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions
- Reducing CO2 emissions
- Support for stricter measurement conditions
- Long-term performance maintenance
By complying with these regulations, the new Corolla Touring has ensured environmental performance that will enable it to continue to be sold in the future.
Comparison with competing models
Positioning in the station wagon market
Although the station wagon market is currently shrinking, the Corolla Touring maintains stable popularity.
Main competitors:
- Subaru Levorg
- Mazda Atenza Wagon (now MAZDA6 Wagon)
- Honda Shuttle
The new model is expected to offer performance and cost-effectiveness that will put it in a more advantageous position compared to these competing models.
New crossover model settings
Incorporating SUV elements
The new model will include a crossover model with improved off-road performance.
Crossover model features:
- Ensuring minimum ground clearance by increasing vehicle height
- Dedicated bumper and side cladding
- SUV-like exterior design
- Control system designed for off-road driving
Should I buy now or wait for the new model?
Benefits of buying now
If you want to buy now:
- Matured technology of the current model
- Relatively stable prices
- Shortened delivery times (current models take around 3-4 months)
- Proven reliability
The benefits of waiting for a new model
If you wait until 2026:
- Latest Engine Technology
- Significantly improved fuel economy
- The latest safety equipment
- A more refined design
- Responding to future environmental regulations
Criteria for determining the timing of purchase
Consider buying now if:
- The current condition of the car is deteriorating
- I urgently need a station wagon
- Low interest in the latest technology
- Price is important
Those who should wait for the new model:
- High interest in the latest technology
- Emphasis on fuel efficiency
- Intended for long-term use
- Seeking new designs
Delivery times and production systems
Current model delivery status
The current delivery time for the Corolla Touring is about 3-4 months, so delivery is possible in a relatively short period of time. However, this may vary slightly depending on the grade and equipment.
New model delivery date forecast
The new Corolla Touring is scheduled to be released in 2026, so actual deliveries are expected to take place between late 2026 and early 2027.
Maintenance costs and economy
Economic benefits from improved fuel efficiency
The new model is expected to improve fuel economy by approximately 2-3km/L compared to the current model.
Fuel cost comparison for an annual driving distance of 10,000 km:
- Current hybrid (29.5km/L): Approximately 45,800 yen
- New Hybrid (32.0km/L): Approx. 42,200 yen
- Savings of approximately 3,600 yen per year
Tax benefits
Because the new model complies with the latest environmental standards, it is likely to be eligible for various tax incentives, which can help reduce initial costs.
Technological advancements in detail
Technical features of the new generation engine
The newly developed 1.5L inline 4-cylinder engine has been changed from the previous long-stroke design to a big-bore short-stroke design.
Technical benefits:
- Improved power output at high speeds
- Downsizing and weight reduction of engines
- Greater freedom of mounting position
- Improved coordination with hybrid systems
Improved aerodynamic performance
The new model utilizes the lower bonnet position achieved by the downsized engine to improve aerodynamic performance (Cd value), which is expected to improve fuel efficiency and quietness at high speeds.
Summary: Best time to buy
The new Corolla Touring is expected to have performance and equipment that surpasses the current model. In particular, improved fuel economy, the latest safety features, and compliance with future environmental regulations are major advantages.
Overall recommendation:
- If it’s urgent : We recommend purchasing the current model.
- If you plan to use it for a long time : We recommend waiting for the release of a new model.
- If fuel efficiency is important : The new model is clearly advantageous
- If you’re interested in the latest technology : the new model is highly recommended
The new Corolla Touring is an attractive model that has the potential to further evolve in the station wagon category. The timing of purchase should be determined by comprehensively assessing individual needs and circumstances.
