Toyota’s Coolest, Best-Looking New Car Is … a Corolla?

It’s a dark horse pick, especially considering the brand’s fan-favorite trucks and SUVs, but there’s no denying the FX Edition’s curb appeal.

2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition front end closeup

By Sean Tirman

Published May 9, 2025

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As the world’s number one best-selling car company since 2019, Toyota’s list of vehicular offerings is understandably robust and outstanding. A lot of them even have that hard-to-define, inherent “cool” factor, like the sporty GR86, rugged and capable Tacoma pickup and perennially popular RAV4.

However, the brand’s most surprisingly stunning recent release is a longtime model you’d probably never even consider putting on that list: a Corolla. But this isn’t just any old Corolla; it’s the 2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition.

2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition on city street — The FX’s bodywork is satisfyingly sleek, and the white wheels are a nice, eye-catching touch.

Historical hot hatch

Despite its newness, the Corolla Hatchback FX Edition wasn’t conjured out of thin air. It harkens to one of the brand’s historical models: the beloved FX16 from the late 1980s.

To be fair, besides its wide stance and back hatch, the inspiration is more spiritual than corporeal. Still, however intangible it might be, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel the FX16’s spirit in this modern reinterpretation.

2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition parked front-end closeup — The low, wide stance helps capture the spirit of the car’s inspiration: the ’80s FX16.

Perhaps it’s as simple as being struck by its sporty white 18-inch wheels, vented rear wing and heritage badging. Maybe it’s the trio of vibrant, retro colorways — Ice Cap, Inferno and Blue Crush Metallic.

Whatever the case, I’m definitely smitten by this hot hatch. Of course, it’s not just about its looks — it’s also about what’s hiding under the hood and inside the cabin.

2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition next to old Corolla in front of record store — Just a couple of beauties, basking in the sunlight.

Retro racer

Based on the Corolla Hatchback SE, the FX Edition isn’t exactly a speed racer, but it’s no slouch, either. Along with its retro styling, improved aerodynamics and “bold athleticism,” it’s a capable performer on the road.

Under the hood, it has a 2L, four-cylinder, 169-horsepower engine offering 33 MPG. That might not seem like much, but it’s important to remember that the Corolla is still relatively small, only weighing a hair over 3,000 pounds.

Don’t forget the generous cargo space not offered by sedans. (Car camping, anyone?)

It’s also loaded with modern amenities and styling. Highlights include black Sport Touring seats with suede inserts and orange contrast stitching. That styling extends to its door panels, steering wheel and shift boot.

It also boasts an 8-inch Audio Multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and voice control. While none of these are particularly special, they’re still lovely, even if they’re expected. Don’t forget the generous cargo space not offered by sedans. (Car camping, anyone?)

2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition hatch interior — The cargo area is generous. If you fold the back seats down, it makes a great bed base for car camping.

Coming soon

While pricing and availability of the 2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback FX Edition have yet to be revealed, the brand has announced that only 1,600 units will be available.