Corolla Hatchback Becomes America’s Cheapest Compact Hatch for 2026

Compact Hatchbacks Still Hanging On

There aren't many compact hatchbacks in the US, but if you want one – something small, practical, and affordable – there are still great options in the market.

In 2025, the Subaru Impreza Base was the most affordable way to enter the compact hatch segment, but for 2026, that entry-level trim is no longer available. Subaru of America has restructured its lineup, which means the Sport now takes its place as the new starting point, priced at $26,595 before destination. The higher RS comes in at $29,495. Both trims are up slightly – between $235 and $245 compared to last year’s figures – on top of the unchanged $1,195 destination charge.

That leaves the Toyota Corolla Hatchback in a more favorable position. While Toyota did apply a price increase for 2026, it continues to offer the SE trim as the entry-level model. At $24,180 before fees, the SE is now the most affordable compact hatchback in America for the new model year, upending Subaru’s repositioned Impreza.

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

Corolla Hatchback Pricing and Updates

Toyota has kept the Corolla Hatchback lineup straightforward for 2026, with three grades available: SE, the new FX Edition, and XSE. Prices across the board have seen modest adjustments compared to 2025, with the SE increasing by $400 to $24,180 and the XSE rising by $95 to $27,175. The FX Edition joins the lineup at $26,780, slotting between the two established trims.

Beyond pricing, Toyota added a handful of notable standard features for 2026. A Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is now standard across all trims, as is a wireless charger. Power continues to come from the 2.0-liter Dynamic-Force four-cylinder, which churns out 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT that utilizes a launch gear for more natural acceleration. Fuel economy remains a strong point, with up to an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined on the SE.

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article

A Nod to the Past with the FX Edition

The big story for 2026 is the introduction of the FX Edition, a limited-run model that draws inspiration from the Corolla FX16 of the 1980s. Announced earlier this year, only 1,600 units will be built for the US, giving it exclusivity in a shrinking segment.

Toyota has given the FX Edition with distinct styling cues, including 18-inch gloss-white alloy wheels, a black vented rear wing, and a heritage-inspired badge. Inside, there are sport seats with suede inserts and orange stitching, a theme that extends to the steering wheel, shifter boot, and door panels. A 7-inch digital gauge cluster is also standard.

The Toyota GR Corolla is still the most badass Corolla Hatchback you can buy today, but if you're not ready to spend more than $30,000, the FX Edition should easily make you stand out.

View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article