In Pakistan, we are still eagerly awaiting the arrival of the 12th-generation Toyota Corolla. Meanwhile, international Toyota fans have already shifted their focus to the 13th generation, speculating about its design and features.
There is a growing buzz about what Toyota might introduce with the next iteration of the Corolla, despite the delay in the launch of the 12th generation in Pakistan. Even though our market tends to receive outdated models, it’s interesting to discuss what the future holds for the globally anticipated 13th-generation Corolla.
The Toyota Corolla, once seen as a no-brainer choice for reliable and affordable transportation, has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the introduction of the sportier Gazoo Racing (GR) variant of the 12th generation, Toyota added a new level of excitement to its traditionally safe and practical sedan.
As the current 12th-generation model (E210), which debuted in 2018, nears the end of its run, speculation is rife about what the 13th-generation Corolla will bring. Will Toyota continue to embrace bold, dynamic designs, or will they revert to a more conservative approach? Let’s take a look at what we can expect from the new model.
Toyota’s recent design language, seen in models like the C-HR, Prius, and Camry, suggests that the 13th-generation Corolla won’t be a vehicle that blends into the background. It’s expected to feature a striking front fascia, possibly with a T-shaped grille and bold LED boomerang headlights.
The body is likely to have sculpted lines, giving the car a sharp and modern appearance. A GR version could bring even more visual flair with carbon fibre details, larger wheels, and aggressive rear styling.
From the side, the car is expected to have a design similar to the current model, with longer rear doors for easier access to the back seats. At the rear, sleek LED taillights, a more upright hatchback design, and a lower bumper could give it a distinctive look.
Toyota is expected to continue offering the Corolla in three body styles: a four-door sedan, a five-door hatchback, and a station wagon (Touring). However, availability will vary by market, with North America possibly missing out on the wagon variant, which may be offered in different trims, including a crossover-styled version and even a GR performance model.
Inside, the new Corolla will likely draw inspiration from the latest Prius, featuring a modern and tech-focused cabin with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster. Standard features are expected to include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with wireless charging. Toyota may even incorporate advanced AI-driven voice controls and a more intuitive digital owner’s manual.
The 13th-generation Corolla is also expected to offer semi-autonomous driving features, a panoramic glass roof, and increased cargo space, making it more competitive in the compact car market.
Under the hood, Toyota’s new 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine will power the lineup. In its naturally aspirated form, it’s expected to produce around 128 horsepower, with a turbocharged version pushing that figure to 178 hp. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions are also anticipated, with the plug-in model featuring dual electric motors for enhanced performance and fuel efficiency.
For the GR Corolla, rumours suggest two possible powertrains: either an evolution of the current 1.6-litre turbocharged engine or a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that could deliver over 300 horsepower. A manual transmission option is expected to remain available, especially given its popularity among GR Corolla buyers in the US.
The 13th-generation Corolla is expected to debut globally in 2026, with models arriving in North America in 2027. It will face stiff competition in the compact car market, which has seen brands like Ford and GM exit the segment, while rivals such as the Honda Civic, Kia K4, Hyundai Elantra, and Volkswagen Golf continue to perform strongly.
Despite the delay in receiving newer models in Pakistan, the upcoming Corolla is certainly something to look forward to, with its potential to shake up the market both here and abroad.
