The Most Significant Update to Toyota's 2026 Corolla Hatch Draws Inspiration From 1980 | Carscoops

      The special edition hatchback overlooks performance and chassis enhancements despite having a sportier look.

      9 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      The 2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback has a starting MSRP of $24,180 in the United States.

      Notable features include a standard Blind Spot Monitor and a wireless charging pad.

      The new FX Edition boasts white wheels, a rear spoiler, and Sport Touring seats.

      Toyota’s refreshed 2026 Corolla Hatchback is receiving several updates for the upcoming model year. Launching shortly after the Corolla sedan, this compact model's lineup now features a special edition inspired by the 1980s, enhanced safety technology, revised trim options, and slight price increases.

      The new FX Edition replaces the discontinued Nightshade trim and is a limited-run model that pays tribute to the 1980s Corolla FX16. Additionally, standard features across all trims have been upgraded, especially regarding safety.

      The 2026 Corolla Hatchback is available in SE, FX Edition, and XSE trims, with prices increasing slightly across the range. The base SE now starts at $24,180, reflecting a $400 rise, while the premium XSE only sees a $95 increase. The FX Edition is priced at $26,780, which is a $2,000 increase from the previous Nightshade model.

      US PRICING

      Note: All prices do not include the $1,195 dealer processing and handling fee.

      Mechanically, everything remains the same. All Corolla Hatchback trims utilize a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 169 hp (126 kW / 171 PS) and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque, paired with a Dynamic Shift CVT that transmits power to the front wheels.

      More: Here’s Everything We Know About The 2027 Toyota Corolla

      The base Corolla SE comes with 16-inch wheels, an 8-inch infotainment display, a wireless charging pad, fabric upholstery, and a six-speaker audio system. Additionally, the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 now includes a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

      2026 Toyota Corolla FX Edition

      New FX Edition with ’80s Inspiration

      The standout feature for the 2026 model year is the FX Edition, limited to only 1,600 units. Drawing inspiration from the 1987 Corolla FX16, it embraces a retro aesthetic but lacks any performance or chassis modifications to complement its sportier appearance.

      The FX Edition features 18-inch alloy wheels in gloss white, accented with black lug nuts. While the wheel design is nearly identical to last year’s Nightshade trim, the white finish gives them a more pronounced look. Additional exterior enhancements include a gloss black roof spoiler and a vintage-style badge on the tailgate.

      More: Toyota Transforms Its Smallest Sedan With a GR Sport Makeover Combining Hybrid Power

      Inside, the FX is equipped with a 10-way Sport Touring heated driver's seat featuring black upholstery and suede inserts. To enhance the interior, contrasting orange stitching is applied to the seats, door panels, steering wheel, and gear shifter. The digital cockpit consists of a 7-inch digital instrument cluster along with an 8-inch infotainment system, similar to the flagship XSE trim.

      In summary, the FX Edition sets itself apart from the discontinued Nightshade by featuring a gloss black rear spoiler, white wheels, unique badging, a digital instrument cluster, Sport Touring seats, and the inclusion of a Blind Spot Monitor.

      The 2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback will be available at US dealerships this fall.