Toyota hoping to build on Corolla success with 2026 updates

Toyota Manufacturing UK is looking to build on the success of its Derbyshire-built Corolla after updates were announced for the 2026 model.

The car giant’s Burnaston plant manufactures different versions of the Corolla – the hatchback, Touring Sports wagon and Commercial van.

The model’s 2026 updates will focus on appearance and sustainability.

New colours have been added to the Corolla palette: in a Corolla-first, an exclusive grey matt finish for the performance-inspired GR Sport hatchback and Touring Sports versions, and a new dark grey metallic.

The introduction of the matt finish is a notable first.

Toyota Manufacturing UK’s Burnaston factory is the first facility to introduce this radical new colour on a volume-production vehicle.

The new colour option was introduced first in the UK for the 2025 Corolla; it will be released for other European markets in 2026 as a new onyx grey option.

Corolla’s environmental profile is strengthened with the use of Samara upholstery, a hard-wearing but tactile fabric made from recycled materials.

On the Icon grade hatchback, Touring Sports and Commercial models, Samara is being more widely used across the seatbacks and cushions.

Toyota’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in leather alternatives being used for the steering wheel and shift lever trims.

In a statement, Toyota said: “The Corolla is a long-standing cornerstone of Toyota’s European model range, serving as a centre of gravity for the development of locally manufactured vehicles.

“On the global stage, it enjoys the status of the world’s most popular car, based on the name-plate being carried by more than 50 million vehicles across 12 generations.

That popularity is founded on consistently delivering qualities valued in the heart of the market: the famous Toyota quality, durability and reliability together with practicality, versatility and efficient yet rewarding performance.

“All this – and more – is featured in the new Corolla for 2026.”