The latest chapter in the Toyota Gazoo Racing story is ready to be told, with the arrival of the fire-breathing GR Corolla in Australian showrooms in March. It joins the GR86, GR Supra and GR Yaris.
To be offered initially in a highly-specified GTS grade that’s priced from $62,300 plus on-road costs, some 700 units will be available in the first year. It will be joined in coming months by the limited-run Morizo Edition, of which just 25 examples will be offered.
Based on the popular Corolla hatch, the GR Corolla is underpinned by the acclaimed TNGA-C platform, significantly enhanced for high-performance driving dynamics. It features a turbocharged petrol engine, all-wheel drive, and a wider track front and rear.
Sporting completely overhauled suspension, and design features and styling enhancements that clearly set it apart from the rest of the Corolla family, the GR model is powered by the same high-output 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris.
It’s been tuned to produce a boosted 221kW of power and 370Nm of torque, with the improved output achieved thanks to enhancements such as the triple-exit exhaust which reduces back pressure, and reinforced pistons and exhaust valves.
Increased capacity for the direct-injection fuel pump and engine oil cooler also feature. All GR Corollas also come equipped with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission with intelligent rev-matching technology, engineered to provide maximum driver enjoyment.
Morizo Editions push the envelope further, extracting approximately an extra 30Nm of torque from the turbocharged engine, while tightening the transmission’s gear ratios makes better use of the extra torque.
Exceptional handling and cornering performance is assured with the GR Corolla employing the sophisticated GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, supported with Torsen limited-slip differentials on both the front and rear axles for optimal torque distribution.
Optimised suspension geometry, extensive chassis reinforcements, weight reduction and dedicated ventilated disc brakes all contribute to a thrilling driving experience, with the Morizo Edition offering even further weight reduction and structural reinforcement.
Exterior enhancements include unique front and rear bumpers to accommodate the wider track, additional air ducts to enhance aerodynamics and cooling, a special triple-exit exhaust system, raised hood and unique 18-inch alloy wheels and Yokohama tyres.
The Morizo Edition gains its own 18-inch BBS forged, dark silver alloys with sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, as well as a carbon-fibre reinforced polymer (CFRP) roof that helps lower overall weight and the car’s centre of gravity.
The functional design is mirrored inside, with all versions gaining a dedicated gear shifter and centre console, aluminium pedals, manual parking brake and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Connectivity is improved with an 8.0-inch touchscreen display housing the latest Toyota multimedia system, including connected services, paired with a fully digital 12.3-inch multi-information display and colour head-up display.
The touchscreen is compatible with wired Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, features DAB+ digital radio and satellite navigation, and offers improved usability and dynamic voice recognition.
Heated front seats and steering wheel, a wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate control and an eight-speaker JBL premium sound system provide welcome creature comforts on GTS versions.
Together with the removal of the 60:40 split-fold rear seats to save weight, the Morizo Edition is differentiated inside with unique bucket front seats with contrast red stitching, red seatbelts, and suede trim for the steering wheel, gear shifter and parking brake.
It also sports a red centre marker for the steering wheel and alumite red trim on the shift knob. Toyota Safety Sense active safety technologies also feature, including intersection turn assist, and improved camera and radar sensors.
GTS grades are available in Glacier White, Ebony, Liquid Mercury metallic and Feverish Red mica metallic. The Morizo Edition will be offered in Frosted White pearl, Tarmac Black metallic and the exclusive Matte Steel.
The GR Corolla is covered by Toyota Warranty Advantage, which offers up to 5-year unlimited kilometre coverage, extending to seven-years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for the first three years/60,000km.
To jump into one, you’ll need to spend $62,300 for the GTS or $77,800 for the Morizo Edition. That’s plus on-roads. If you’re keen on one and need finance, talk to CreditOne.
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