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2026 Toyota Corolla Review

The 2026 Toyota Corolla blends fuel efficiency, smart tech, and everyday comfort perfect for those who need a smart and efficient sedan.
Blue 2026 Corolla Driving
2026 Toyota Corolla - toyota.com

Overview

Since 1968, Toyota has been selling the Corolla in the United States. Its long-running success is due to a mix of affordability, efficiency, and practicality.

The 2026 Toyota Corolla continues that legacy along with expected updates in tech, safety, and hybrid efficiency. Ideal for budget-conscious drivers seeking comfort, connectivity, and fuel economy in a compact sedan or hatchback.

Carsforsale.com Score
8.5/10
Powertrain
Score
8.25/10
Interior
Score
8.5/10
Technology
Score
8/10
Value
Score
9/10
Body Style

Starting Price

MSRP $28,700

Drivetrain

Drivetrain

FWD/AWD

Drivetrain

Fuel Economy

32 City / 41 Hwy

Number of Seats

Seating

Seats 5

Trims & Pricing

LE- $22,725
SE Hatchback - $24,180
Hybrid LE - $24,575
SE- $25,165
FX Hatchback - $26,780
Hybrid SE - $27,015
XSE Hatchback - $27,175
XSE- $28,440
Hybrid XLE - $28,940

2026 Toyota Corolla Powertrain 8.25/10

Red 2026 Corolla driving in a city
2026 Toyota Corolla - toyota.com

A 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque is paired with a CVT. This setup helps the 2026 Toyota Corolla deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel economy, making it ideal for the daily drivers out there.

For eco-conscious drivers, the 2026 Corolla Hybrid returns with a 1.8L hybrid powertrain that delivers 121 hp and an estimated 50+ MPG combined. Making it one of the best small cars for fuel efficiency. Whether you choose the gas or hybrid model, the Corolla is a quiet, composed ride with light steering and predictable handling.

2026 Toyota Corolla Interior 8.5/10

2026 Toyota Corolla interior
2026 Toyota Corolla - toyota.com

Inside the 2026 Corolla is a clean, comfortable cabin with seating for five. Depending on the trim, you’ll find cloth or SofTex synthetic leather upholstery, with thoughtful ergonomics and solid build quality throughout.

Rear passengers get 34.8 inches of legroom, and cargo space is competitive with the sedan offering 13.1 cu-ft of truck space and the hatchback form factor offering 17.8 cu-ft of cargo space.

2026 Toyota Corolla Technology 8/10

2026 Toyota Corolla standard infotainment
2026 Toyota Corolla - toyota.com

The Corolla comes with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, with upper trims offering a 10.5-inch display. The infotainment system is intuitive and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless charging is also available starting with the XSE trim level. Available features include Wi-Fi hotspot, JBL premium audio system, and Toyota’s Connected Services.

Safety is a standout, with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard across all trims. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and road sign assistance. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available on higher trim levels.

2026 Toyota Corolla Value 9/10

The base LE trim starts at $22,725. It comes equipped with LED headlights, Toyota Safety Sense technology, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. For less than a 2,000-dollar upcharge, the LE Hybrid gets the 1.8L hybrid powertrain.

We recommend the Hybrid SE trim. Its a well-balanced mix of features, including a sportier suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and an impressive 44 mpg combined. All of this comes with a starting MSRP of $28,210. While it includes a smaller 7-inch infotainment system, you can upgrade to the SE Premium Package for an additional $965. This package adds larger screens and Qi-compatible wireless charging.

At the very top of the range, the Hybrid XLE adds heated seats, a premium audio system, 12.3-inch digital display and the 10.5-inch infotainment display. It adds a few nice extra touches of luxury, but at a MSRP of $30,135 you may want to consider stepping up to a Camry, or Prius for a few thousand dollars more.

Toyota comes with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic, 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain, and an 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid warranty. On top of that, Toyota also offers 2-years/25,000-mioles of complementary ToyotaCare maintenance.

2026 Toyota Corolla Final Score 8.5/10

White Corolla hatchback in a city.
2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback - toyota.com

The 2026 Toyota Corolla’s is a dependable, efficient, and well-equipped compact car that delivers on its promise of fuel efficiency and reliability. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, or someone who just wants a car that works without fuss, the Corolla is a smart pick.

Compared to rivals like the 2026 Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra, the Corolla holds its own with hybrid efficiency and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. It’s not the most exciting car on the road, but it’s one of the most trustworthy.

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