Toyota Corolla 2026: 60 Years, 50 Million Sold, and the New FX

The Toyota Corolla turns 60 in 2026 with over 50 million units sold worldwide. This automotive icon reinvents itself once more with the FX version and technological innovations that confirm its position as the best-selling car in history.

"This car has covered more than 2 million kilometers with its original engine, hinting at a rather unique mechanical history" — Whanganui Chronicle, about a 1993 Corolla

A Six-Decade Success Story

Since its launch on November 5, 1966 in Japan, the Corolla has been writing automotive history. Initially conceived as an affordable compact with a 1.1 L, 60 hp engine, it targeted the Japanese middle class with a simple promise: reliability, economy, and robustness.

Success quickly spread beyond Japanese borders. In 1974, the Corolla E30 introduced major improvements with a more powerful 1.6 L engine and front disc brakes. But it was in 1997 that the feat became historic: the Corolla surpassed the legendary Volkswagen Beetle to become the best-selling car of all time.

An Evolving Design That Stays True

The Corolla MY26 marks an aesthetic break with the introduction of an exclusive matte finish, named Mat Edition. This sophisticated paint, reserved for the GR SPORT trim with the 2.0 L hybrid powertrain, is a first for Toyota in Europe on a mass-produced model.

The 2026 range also offers a new metallic Meteor Grey color, enriching an already generous palette. These stylistic evolutions are accompanied by increased use of recycled materials in interior trim, reinforcing the manufacturer's sustainable approach.

The FX Version: When the Corolla Plays Sports Car

The Corolla FX 2026 perfectly illustrates the model's adaptability. With its exclusive white 18-inch wheels, its more imposing rear spoiler, and its sport seats with orange stitching, it visually mimics the GR Corolla without its price tag.

Under the hood, we find the 2.0 L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 169 hp, paired with a CVT transmission. Performance remains measured with a 0-100 km/h in 8.2 seconds, but the goal isn't racing: to offer an accessible sporty look.

When Durability Becomes Innovation

Toyota's philosophy takes a concrete dimension with the Circular Factory initiative. Since the summer of 2025, the factory in Burnaston, UK, recycles aluminum wheels from end-of-life vehicles to manufacture engine blocks for new Corolla hybrids. A closed loop between Burnaston and the factory in Deeside, Wales.

This approach fits into Toyota's overall strategy aiming for carbon neutrality in production. The recovered aluminum avoids the use of virgin raw material, significantly reducing the environmental footprint.

Longevity Records That Make an Impression

If the Corolla impresses with its sales figures, it also stands out for its robustness. The example of Graeme Hebley in New Zealand is becoming legendary: his 1993 Corolla wagon shows over 2 million kilometers on its original engine and gearbox. Used to deliver newspapers between Wellington and New Plymouth, it covers nearly 350 km per trip, twice a week, for over 20 years.

This exceptional longevity is explained by rigorous maintenance every two weeks and the robust design of Toyota mechanics from that era. The owner limits the engine to 7000 rpm when it can rev to 8000 rpm.