Toyota appears to be preparing a major transformation for one of its most important nameplates. The next-generation Toyota Corolla is reportedly set to move beyond the conventional sedan and hatchback formulas, potentially adopting a liftback body style while expanding its powertrain lineup to include hybrid, plug-in hybrid, fully electric and high-performance GR variants.
The Corolla remains one of Toyota’s strongest sellers in the United States despite its age. Toyota dealers delivered 131,403 Corolla models during the first six months of the year, representing a 9.5 percent increase compared with the same period a year earlier. That growth is particularly notable considering the current-generation Corolla has been on the market for almost a decade.
However, a replacement is reportedly on the way.
Next-Generation Toyota Corolla Could Become a Liftback
Toyota has already hinted at the design direction of the next Corolla. A teaser released over the summer appeared to preview the upcoming model, with styling cues reportedly influenced by the Toyota Corolla Concept shown at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show.
According to a report from Car and Driver, Toyota could make a significant change to the Corolla lineup by replacing the traditional sedan with a liftback.
Such a move would allow Toyota to effectively combine the characteristics of the existing Corolla sedan and hatchback into a single model. A liftback could retain the practicality of a hatchback while offering a more streamlined silhouette closer to that of a conventional sedan.
The strategy would also fit with Toyota CEO Koji Sato’s broader push to reduce the number of vehicle variants offered by the company. Simplifying the lineup could help Toyota reduce complexity and improve profitability.
That raises an obvious question: does Toyota really need separate Corolla sedan and hatchback models when the company already offers the Corolla Cross?
For now, Toyota has not confirmed whether the next Corolla will adopt the liftback configuration.
Updated TNGA-C Platform Expected
The next-generation Corolla is reportedly expected to continue using Toyota’s TNGA-C architecture, albeit in an updated form.
That would allow Toyota to retain an established platform while incorporating new powertrain technologies and potentially improving efficiency, packaging and driving dynamics.
One of the most interesting aspects of the new Corolla could be the sheer number of propulsion options. Reports suggest Toyota could offer as many as four distinct powertrain configurations.
That would give the Corolla one of the broadest powertrain strategies in its segment.
New Toyota Corolla Hybrid Could Focus on Efficiency
The hybrid version is expected to remain a core part of the Corolla lineup.
According to current reports, the next Corolla Hybrid could use a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine combined with Toyota’s hybrid technology. Total system output is reportedly expected to be around 134 hp (100 kW/136 PS).
That figure would be broadly similar to the output of the current Corolla Hybrid, meaning Toyota may prioritize efficiency rather than outright performance.
And that could be the more important upgrade.
Fuel economy is reportedly expected to improve by approximately 10 to 20 percent. If that estimate materializes, the next Corolla Hybrid could become significantly more competitive in a market where fuel efficiency remains one of the model’s defining advantages.
An all-wheel-drive option could also remain available, following the formula used by the current Corolla Hybrid.
Plug-In Hybrid Corolla Could Offer More Electric Driving
Toyota is also reportedly preparing a plug-in hybrid version of the next-generation Corolla.
The Corolla PHEV would presumably use a larger battery pack than the standard hybrid, allowing it to travel considerably farther on electric power alone.
A more powerful electric motor is also expected.
Toyota has been expanding its plug-in hybrid strategy across several markets, and introducing the technology to the Corolla could give the compact car another way to bridge the gap between conventional hybrids and fully electric vehicles.
For buyers who want lower fuel consumption without committing entirely to an EV, a Corolla Plug-In Hybrid could become an important addition to the lineup.
Fully Electric Toyota Corolla Also Expected
Perhaps the biggest change could be the arrival of a fully electric Corolla.
Reports indicate that the next-generation Corolla EV could offer at least 250 miles (402 km) of range. An optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive system is also reportedly under consideration.
If those specifications become reality, the electric Corolla would occupy a very different position from today’s gasoline and hybrid models, effectively turning the Corolla nameplate into a broader electrified family.
The dual-motor configuration could also give the EV considerably more performance than the efficiency-focused hybrid versions.
Toyota has historically taken a multi-path approach to electrification rather than relying exclusively on battery-electric vehicles, and a Corolla lineup featuring hybrid, plug-in hybrid and EV models would fit directly into that strategy.
Gasoline Corolla Could Get a Turbocharged Engine
Despite the expansion of electrified powertrains, Toyota reportedly isn’t abandoning the internal-combustion Corolla.
The conventional gasoline-powered model could receive either a turbocharged 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter engine.
That would represent a significant change from the naturally aspirated engines used in many versions of the current Corolla and could provide a stronger combination of performance and efficiency.
The exact engine configuration remains unclear, but turbocharging could give the next Corolla more low-end torque while allowing Toyota to maintain relatively modest engine displacement.
GR Corolla Could Become a 400-PS Hot Hatch
At the top of the performance range, the GR Corolla is expected to continue with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
However, the next-generation model could become considerably more powerful.
Reports suggest Toyota could target as much as 395 hp (295 kW/400 PS) for the next GR Corolla. That would push the compact performance car toward the 400-hp threshold and represent a substantial increase over the current model.
The GR Corolla’s existing formula—compact dimensions, turbocharged power and all-wheel drive—has already made it one of the most distinctive performance cars in Toyota’s lineup. More power could take the next-generation version into an even more serious performance category.
Whether the reported 395-hp figure becomes production reality remains to be seen.
One Corolla, Four Powertrain Strategies
If the reports prove accurate, Toyota could transform the Corolla from a relatively conventional compact car into a comprehensive family of electrified and performance-oriented models.
The expected lineup could look something like this:
Corolla Hybrid: 1.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid, around 134 hp, with potential AWD
Corolla Plug-In Hybrid: Larger battery and more powerful electric motor
Corolla EV: At least 250 miles of estimated range, with optional dual-motor AWD
Corolla Gasoline: Turbocharged 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter engine
GR Corolla: 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with potentially up to 395 hp
That would give Toyota a way to cover everything from maximum fuel efficiency to near-400-hp performance under a single globally recognized nameplate.
Škoda is giving its popular Karoq SUV a significant upgrade with the introduction of the new Karoq Black Edition, a range-topping model created to celebrate a major production milestone: the millionth Karoq rolling off the production line.
Positioned above the existing SportLine Edition, the new Škoda Karoq Black Edition combines an aggressive blacked-out exterior, a more luxurious cabin, additional technology and a choice of petrol and diesel powertrains. It will become the most comprehensively equipped Karoq ever offered by Škoda when orders open on 1 October 2026.
First deliveries are expected before the end of 2026, with UK pricing starting at £39,160.
Škoda Karoq Black Edition Gets a Distinctive Blacked-Out Design
The Karoq Black Edition takes the familiar SportLine specification and adds a much more distinctive visual identity.
The exterior is dominated by black detailing, including 19-inch Vega black alloy wheels, black roof rails, black door mirrors and a black radiator grille. Sports front and rear bumpers further separate the Black Edition from other versions of the Karoq.
Škoda has also fitted a rear diffuser and black Škoda and Karoq lettering on the tailgate. Buyers will be restricted to a monochrome metallic paint palette, reinforcing the model’s dark-themed appearance.
The result is a Karoq with a sportier and more sophisticated presence, while retaining the practical proportions that have made the compact SUV one of Škoda’s best-selling models.
More Luxury Inside the Karoq Black Edition
The changes are even more extensive inside.
The Škoda Karoq Black Edition comes standard with Sportline Suite leather seats, a panoramic glass sunroof and black headlining. An LED interior lighting package adds further ambience and includes a Škoda welcome logo.
The driver gets a three-spoke heated leather multifunction steering wheel, with DSG paddle shifters fitted to automatic versions, while aluminium pedals add a sportier touch.
Comfort has also been given a major focus. Both the front and rear seats are heated, while tri-zone climate control allows different temperature settings for different areas of the cabin.
For audiophiles, the Black Edition comes equipped with a CANTON sound system, adding a premium audio experience to the model’s already extensive standard specification.
Matrix LED Headlights and Advanced Chassis Technology
The new Karoq Black Edition isn’t simply an appearance package. Škoda has also upgraded the SUV’s lighting, comfort and driving technology.
Every Black Edition receives Full LED Matrix headlights with an adaptive front light system, cornering function and poor-weather lighting. A heated windscreen is also standard, making the SUV better suited to colder winter conditions.
The chassis specification is equally comprehensive. Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) and Progressive Steering are standard, giving the Karoq Black Edition a more sophisticated driving character while allowing the suspension and steering systems to adapt to different driving conditions.
Four Engines, Including DSG and 4×4 Options
Škoda will offer the Karoq Black Edition with four drivetrain configurations, giving buyers a choice between manual and dual-clutch automatic transmissions as well as front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
The entry point is the 1.5 TSI 150PS, available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG automatic.
Above it sits the 2.0 TSI 190PS, paired exclusively with a seven-speed DSG transmission and all-wheel drive. This provides the highest-output petrol powertrain available for the new Black Edition.
Diesel buyers get the 2.0 TDI 150PS, also equipped with a seven-speed DSG and all-wheel drive. It sits at the top of the Black Edition price range.
All engines are members of the Volkswagen Group’s EVO-generation engine family, designed to combine performance with improved efficiency.
Škoda Karoq Black Edition Price and Specifications
UK pricing for the new Karoq Black Edition starts at £39,160 OTR and rises to £46,035 for the range-topping diesel 4×4.
Model
UK Price OTR
Karoq Black Edition 1.5 TSI 150PS Manual
£39,160
Karoq Black Edition 1.5 TSI 150PS DSG
£40,610
Karoq Black Edition 2.0 TSI 190PS DSG 4×4
£45,335
Karoq Black Edition 2.0 TDI 150PS DSG 4×4
£46,035
Orders open on 1 October 2026, with the first customer deliveries expected by the end of the year.
Bentley has entered a new era with the introduction of the all-new Bentley Torcal, the company’s first fully electric production model and one of the most significant vehicles in its 107-year history. With up to 888 PS, 1,350 Nm of torque, a claimed driving range of up to 600 km and an 800-volt electrical architecture, the Torcal combines Bentley’s traditional focus on craftsmanship and effortless performance with a radically new electric powertrain.
According to Bentley Chairman and CEO Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, the Torcal represents a template for the company’s future, regardless of whether the powertrain is electric, hybrid or combustion-powered.
“For 107 years, Bentleys have been the most incredibly complete cars – effortless performance, outstanding comfort, exquisite British handcraftsmanship using the best natural materials, and a soundtrack with soul,” Walliser said. “Our new Torcal sets extraordinary benchmarks in every area that matters.”
The significance of the Torcal goes well beyond its electric powertrain. Bentley describes the new SUV as a blueprint for the next generation of vehicles from Crewe, introducing a new design language, new interior materials, advanced chassis technology and a different interpretation of luxury.
Bentley Torcal introduces a new design language
Designed in-house at Bentley’s Crewe headquarters under Design Director Robin Page, the Torcal adopts a low-slung and deliberately sleek SUV profile. Rather than simply translating familiar Bentley design cues into an electric vehicle, the designers have attempted to establish a new visual identity while retaining the proportions and details that have defined the British marque for generations.
Page describes the design philosophy through four distinct “reads”: proportion, graphics, surface language and detail.
The first is proportion. A long wheelbase, short overhangs and an upright front end give the Torcal a substantial road presence. Bentley calls this approach “upright elegance,” one of the company’s key design principles.
The long bonnet is another important element. Despite being an electric vehicle, the Torcal retains what Bentley calls an “endless bonnet,” reinforcing the impression of length and creating a visual connection with the company’s traditional grand tourers.
The second design “read” concerns the graphical elements of the vehicle. The front end draws inspiration from historic Bentleys, including the Continental T, but reinterprets those themes using modern lighting technology and a distinctive illuminated diamond grille.
At the rear, the design is deliberately clean and uncluttered, creating what Bentley calls the “prestigious shield” effect first explored through the EXP 15 concept.
The third element is the surface language. Instead of relying on numerous creases and decorative lines, Bentley has focused on large sculpted surfaces and carefully controlled volumes.
That philosophy is particularly obvious around the rear wheels. The cabin tapers towards the back while the body rises dramatically over the rear axle, producing what the designers describe as the “resting beast” effect.
Finally comes the detail. The diamond motif used on the grille appears throughout the Torcal, sometimes literally and sometimes hidden within textures, surfaces and patterns.
Bentley Torcal interior combines craftsmanship and technology
Inside, the Torcal continues Bentley’s traditional approach to luxury while introducing a number of new materials and technologies.
The dashboard remains inspired by Bentley’s famous wing-shaped architecture, creating a symmetrical cabin with a strong visual sense of balance. Leather, wool, veneer and aluminium are deliberately presented as tactile, authentic materials rather than simply decorative surfaces.
Physical controls remain an important part of the experience. Knurled switches and redesigned bullseye air vents combine traditional Bentley craftsmanship with modern technology, while frequently used functions remain accessible through the centre console and steering wheel.
The seats have also been completely redesigned.
Standard front seats feature 16-way adjustment, heating, ventilation, adjustable side bolsters and a new massage function. Bentley’s Postural Adjust and Smart Seat Climate systems are available as options, continuously modifying seat pressure distribution and temperature to improve comfort during long journeys.
The Wellness Seat Specification takes the massage function further by extending the massage area into the seat cushion, allowing the occupant’s legs, back and shoulders to receive treatment.
For rear passengers, the three-seat bench introduces Bentley’s first power-folding rear-seat system.
Merino wool and handcrafted materials redefine Bentley luxury
Bentley has used the Torcal to expand its approach to sustainable and unconventional interior materials.
One of the most interesting developments is a new 100 percent Merino wool automotive fabric created in partnership with British textile specialist Fox Brothers. The Somerset company has been producing fine wool fabrics since the 18th century.
Bentley says the new fabric is the world’s first 100 percent Merino wool automotive fabric and the first automotive wool fabric to receive Responsible Wool Standard certification.
Another new material is Ombré Walnut by Mulliner. The finish is created using up to 1,000 individually selected layers of responsibly sourced walnut off-cuts and recycled craft paper. The material is compressed, sliced to less than one millimetre in thickness and applied to the interior, creating a gradient that moves through several shades of walnut.
Sunburst Aluminium by Mulliner provides another link with Bentley history. Its three-way brushed pattern is inspired by the engine-turned aluminium dashboards found in historic Bentley models.
Customers can choose from 15 olive tan leather shades, including new Teal, Terra and Glaze colours. There are also 15 matching Dinamica colours, five Merino wool shades, six wood veneer choices, two technical finishes and six Piano finishes.
Bentley Torcal electric powertrain produces up to 888 PS
The numbers are extraordinary even by Bentley standards.
The Torcal is powered by two permanent-magnet synchronous electric motors, one at each axle. The motors feature dry-sump designs and are filled with oil for life.
The rear motor incorporates a locking differential with a multi-plate clutch on each output shaft, while the front motor uses an open differential.
In its most powerful Torcal S configuration, the electric powertrain produces up to 888 PS and 1,350 Nm of torque when Launch Control is activated.
That makes the Torcal S the most powerful Bentley yet in terms of torque.
The standard Torcal develops 821 PS and 1,194 Nm. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds, equivalent to 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
The Torcal S reduces the 0-60 mph time to just 2.8 seconds, or 2.9 seconds from 0-100 km/h. Top speed increases to 162 mph (260 km/h).
Despite those numbers, Bentley says the development team deliberately avoided making acceleration excessively violent. The objective was to deliver the effortless, progressive performance expected from a Bentley rather than simply chasing the lowest possible acceleration figure.
113 kWh battery and 600 km range
The Bentley Torcal uses an 800-volt electrical architecture and a battery consisting of 192 lithium-ion pouch cells connected in series.
The battery has a net capacity of 113 kWh and is covered by a 100,000-mile or 10-year warranty.
Bentley quotes a maximum driving range of up to 375 miles, equivalent to approximately 600 km.
Fast charging is another important part of the Torcal’s long-distance capability. At a 400 kW charging station, the battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just under 20 minutes.
Bentley says that seven minutes of charging can add approximately 100 miles, or 161 km, of range under suitable conditions.
That combination of range and charging performance is particularly important for a vehicle designed around long-distance touring. The Torcal is intended to deliver the same effortless cross-country capability traditionally associated with Bentley’s combustion-powered grand tourers.
Fully active suspension gives the Bentley Torcal a “magic carpet” ride
The Torcal is the first Bentley to feature fully active suspension.
The system uses adaptive two-valve dampers capable of independently raising or lowering each corner of the vehicle in real time. The suspension continuously responds to road conditions and driver inputs to balance ride comfort and body control.
One of the most notable aspects of the system is that Bentley does not require conventional anti-roll bars. Instead, the active dampers can generate continuously adjustable anti-roll torque.
The result is intended to provide the comfort of a luxury limousine while maintaining the body control required from a high-performance SUV.
Electronic all-wheel steering is standard, with the rear wheels capable of steering by up to five degrees. This reduces the turning circle to 11.1 metres and makes the five-metre-long Torcal easier to manoeuvre in urban environments.
Bentley describes the vehicle’s dynamic range as extending from relaxed long-distance touring to agile high-speed driving and controlled off-road use.
The company says the Torcal can provide the comfort associated with a Flying Spur while approaching the dynamic character of a Continental GT Speed.
Powerful brakes and optional carbon-ceramic technology
The standard braking system uses 420 mm front discs and 370 mm rear discs.
Customers can upgrade to a Carbon Silicon Carbide, or CSiC, braking system featuring enormous 440 mm front discs and 410 mm rear discs. Bentley says the 440 mm front discs are jointly the largest in the world with other Bentley models.
Brake calipers are available in black, red and grey, while Mulliner provides three additional colour choices.
Bentley Torcal is five metres long but highly manoeuvrable
At approximately five metres in length, the Torcal is the shortest four-door model in Bentley’s current range, yet Bentley has prioritised interior space.
The luggage compartment provides 460 litres of capacity, while a further 90-litre storage compartment is positioned at the front.
The 11.1-metre turning circle, combined with rear-wheel steering, is intended to make the Torcal significantly easier to operate in city environments than its size might suggest.
The combination of a 600 km range, rapid charging and generous luggage capacity also reinforces its role as a long-distance luxury vehicle.
Four Bentley Torcal Experience Modes change more than driving settings
Bentley has taken the concept of driving modes beyond conventional suspension, steering and powertrain calibration.
The Torcal offers four Experience Modes designed to influence the entire atmosphere of the vehicle, including lighting, sound, climate, airflow and digital information.
Bentley Mode combines comfort, craftsmanship and driver focus.
Comfort Mode creates a calmer environment with fewer distractions. The system can hide almost all non-essential digital information, allowing occupants to spend less time looking at screens.
Sport Mode transforms the atmosphere with a more immersive soundtrack, more focused visual information and a more purposeful lighting environment.
Refresh Mode takes a different approach, increasing fresh-air circulation and brightening the lighting to create a lighter and more invigorating cabin environment.
Bentley Dynamic Symphony creates an artificial engine soundtrack with real instruments
One of the biggest challenges for Bentley engineers was replacing the emotional character of an internal-combustion engine.
Instead of simply reproducing a synthetic V8 soundtrack, the development team created what Bentley calls the “Dynamic Symphony.”
The sound uses real instruments, including drums, viola and bass guitar, to create a soundtrack inspired by the rhythm of Bentley’s V8 engines.
The result changes according to driver torque demand and vehicle speed. The soundtrack becomes more prominent in Sport mode, while drivers can switch it off entirely if they prefer a quieter experience.
Bentley has extended this philosophy to other sounds within the vehicle.
The turn-indicator sound was created from a recording of a hammer striking leather in Bentley’s upholstery workshops, while the touchscreen and digital assistant sounds were inspired by the sound of a crystal glass.
It is an unusual approach for an electric vehicle, but it reflects Bentley’s belief that sound should provide meaningful feedback rather than simply imitate an engine.
Naim audio system delivers up to 1,780 watts
Two audio systems are available.
The standard system delivers 620 watts through 16 speakers.
The optional Naim system increases output to 1,780 watts and uses 28 speakers. The system also incorporates kinaesthetic seat shakers, front headrest speakers and Dolby Atmos 7.1 technology.
The result is intended to make the cabin itself part of the entertainment experience.
Advanced driver assistance technology
The Torcal is equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems supported by 25 radars, sensors and cameras.
The vehicle constantly monitors its surroundings and can react to changing road conditions. If the system detects an obstacle on a narrow road, for example, it can automatically reverse to a previously identified safe position to allow the obstruction to pass.
Additional systems assist with towing, garage parking and parallel parking.
The parking technology is designed to help avoid wheel damage, while remote parking can be controlled through an app. Drivers can also train specific parking manoeuvres into the vehicle.
Four radar-controlled powered doors can automatically open and close. Door closing can be triggered when a passenger fastens their seat belt, through the main touchscreen or, for the driver, by applying pressure to the brake pedal.
Curved OLED displays and augmented reality head-up display
The Torcal introduces curved OLED displays developed specifically for Bentley.
The screens offer deeper blacks and more vibrant colours while improving viewing angles and ergonomics.
Facial recognition can identify the driver and automatically load individual settings, including seat position, steering wheel position and driver assistance preferences.
A smartphone can also function as the vehicle’s key through Bentley’s Mobile Device Key technology.
The driver receives additional information through an augmented reality head-up display. Navigation instructions and driver assistance warnings can be projected directly into the driver’s field of view and aligned with upcoming turns or potential hazards.
Five wheel designs and a new Bentley emblem
Five wheel designs are available when the Torcal launches.
The standard model comes with 21-inch wheels, while the Torcal S receives 22-inch ten-twin-spoke wheels as standard.
Three additional 22-inch designs are available, including an aerodynamic wheel intended to improve efficiency.
Customers can select summer or winter tyres in 21- and 22-inch formats, while a 22-inch all-season tyre is also available.
The Torcal is also the first Bentley to feature the company’s redesigned emblem, originally revealed in 2025.
Bentley Torcal vs. Torcal S
Bentley launches the electric SUV in two primary configurations: the standard Torcal and the sportier Torcal S.
The standard Torcal produces 821 PS and 1,194 Nm, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph.
The Torcal S increases output to 888 PS and 1,350 Nm with Launch Control, cutting the 0-60 mph sprint to 2.8 seconds and raising top speed to 162 mph.
The differences are not limited to performance.
The Torcal S receives black exterior brightware and mirror caps, dark rear lamps, a dedicated rear diffuser, sportier side sills and front bumper strakes, red brake calipers, S fender badges and black Bentley wing badges.
Inside, the S gets a dedicated colour split, quilt and stitching pattern, sports pedals, Piano Black veneer as standard, illuminated treadplates and dynamic waterfall mood lighting.
The standard Torcal uses satin silver brightware, a single-tone colour split and Open Pore Crown Cut Walnut.
