The base Toyota Corolla hatchback now costs $1000 more following a minor update, with additional equipment and smaller price increases for other hatch model grades for 2027.
The entry-level Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid hatchback now starts at $33,110 before on-road costs, a jump of $1000.
Among rivals, the cheapest Mazda 3, although not offered as a hybrid, starts at $31,610 before on-roads, while the Honda Civic e:HEV is priced from $49,900 drive-away.
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The Corolla’s price increase comes as equipment from the previously $1000 optional Convenience Pack has been made standard on the base Ascent Sport.
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This sees front and rear parking sensors fitted, while the entry-level Corolla hatch also comes with Parking Support Brake, previously only available on the higher-spec SX and ZR.
There are smaller price rises for Corolla SX Hybrid hatch and the Corolla ZR Hybrid hatch variants, both up $350 to $35,610 and $39,450 before on-road costs, respectively.
Wireless Android Auto has been added across the lineup. Previously Android Auto required a wired connection, while only Apple CarPlay was wireless.
The Corolla sedan lineup remains unchanged, with the two model grades – Ascent Sport Hybrid and SX Hybrid – at the same prices of $32,585 and $35,185 before on-road costs, respectively.
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The current Corolla is nearing the end of its life, with the next-generation Corolla expected to be unveiled by Toyota before the end of 2026 ahead of going on sale in 2027.
A preview of what the new, 13th-generation Corolla could look like was shown in Tokyo last year, with the edgy Corolla Concept shown at the Japan Mobility Show.
With its design led by Toyota’s French-based ED² (European Design Development) studio, the automaker also said the Corolla Concept was designed for multiple powertrain types, including a battery-electric version.
The current Corolla is offered as a hybrid-only model, apart from its GR Corolla performance flagship, after Toyota Australia dropped all other petrol-only versions across the lineup in 2024.
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For the next generation, Toyota has said the Corolla will offer the same passenger and luggage space regardless of which powertrain is fitted.
The Corolla has been one of the world’s best-selling models, with more than 55 million sold since 1966. It was the most popular vehicle sold in Australia in 2013.
While SUVs have taken over from small hatches and sedans, the Corolla remains the fourth-best-selling Toyota Australia model so far this year, behind the HiLux ute, RAV4 SUV and LandCruiser Prado.
