Retro Toyota Corolla FX Edition Honours '80s Hot Hatch

Although economical practicality is the first thought that comes to mind when one thinks of the Corolla, it has a rich history of appealing to enthusiasts. Toyota is tapping into that past for the 2026 model year with the addition of the limited edition Corolla Hatchback FX Edition.

The new special edition model harkens back to the 1987 Corolla FX16, which featured the same extremely high-tech (for the time) 1.6L twin-cam four-cylinder engine that also powered the mid-engine MR2 of the day. The high-revving engine was praised by the critics of its day, and the car was dubbed a “pocket rocket” by no less an authority than Car and Driver.

Little wonder, then, that Toyota wants to rekindle that excitement with the FX Edition. Unfortunately, this time, there is no special engine. The new limited-edition car is powered by the same 2.0L, four-cylinder engine as the rest of the lineup, and it makes a perfectly acceptable 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque (that’s 61 hp more than the vintage Corolla FX16 made, for what it’s worth).

What the FX Edition does get is some pretty neat visual flair. All 150 examples of the car that are sold in Canada will be painted white and will get matching 18-inch alloy wheels with contrasting black lug nuts. In addition, a black vented sport wing improves aerodynamics and gives the FX Edition a sporty look. Finally, the new model will bear a heritage-inspired rear badge that nods to the original Corolla FX16 of the ‘80s.

Inside, the Corolla Hatchback FX Edition comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and new black Sport Touring Seats with suede inserts and orange stitching (which is continued on the steering wheel and the gear selector). In addition, the model comes standard with a JBL audio system, a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, and a wireless smartphone charger.

Unfortunately, pricing for the 2026 Corolla Hatchback has yet to be announced, though it is expected soon, as new model year vehicles are set to hit Canadian dealerships this spring. The Corolla Hatchback FX Edition, meanwhile, will take a little longer to reach showrooms and is expected to arrive in Canada this fall.