GR Corolla first drive review

GR Corolla – Toyota have just released the hot hatch, GR Corolla. It comes in a highly specified GTS version priced from $62,300 plus the usual costs.

The GR Corolla joins other Toyotas in the GR stable, the GR 86, GR Supra and GR Yaris. It looks awesome, especially in the Feverish Red colour but there are four choices available.

Inside its well-equipped and comfortable.

I had the opportunity to drive the GR Corolla around Sydney Motorsport Park on the launch and I have to say it’s a LOT OF FUN.

It’s powered by the same high-output 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris, that has been tuned to produce a boosted 221kW of power at 6500rpm and 370Nm of torque over a wider rev band, from 3000-5550rpm.

All GR Corollas come equipped with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission and the sophisticated GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, supported with Torsen®² limited-slip differentials on both the front and rear axles.

The GR Corolla is available now but there are only 700 vehicles available in the first year and a number have already been pre ordered. So if you want one better get in quick

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

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Motoring Minute GR Corolla Video

 

GR Corolla final thoughts

Here is a sports hatch that can be driven every day as well as having fun on the track. Not many cars achieve that balance.

It takes a sometimes-bland Corolla style and brings the WOW factor. It looks great!

Balance is the key word here. Everything works in harmony, the responsiveness, ride and handling, steering weight, and aural sensitivity.

It engenders confidence. You simply feel good driving it.

What is good?

Purposeful and stylish looks Engine performance and responsiveness Balanced ride/handling – FUN FUN FUN

What is not so good?

No leather seats. No electric seat adjustments No full size spare

Also look at.

Sports hatchbacks are few and far between these days.

Buyers could look at the Subaru WRX Sportswagon, Hyundai i30N, Honda Type R, Renault Megane RS, Audi S3.

Toyota
Model	GR Corolla GTS
Model Price	$62,300 MLP*
Engine	1.6L 3 Cyl Turbo Petrol Euro 5C
Drivetrain	GR-FOUR AWD 6Sp i-MT
Battery Capacity / type	N/A
Power	221kW @ 6,500rpm
Torque	370Nm @ 3,000 – 5,500rpm
Fuel ADR	8.4L/100km
Fuel on Test	N/A
Fuel capacity	50L
Range (WLTP) / efficiency	595km ADR
Fast Charge / Home (240V)	N/A
Safety	5 Star ANCAP (Tested Nov 2019)
CO2 Emissions	191g/km
0-100kmh/Top Speed	5.29 sec / 230km/h
Servicing	12 Mth / 15,000km – Capped Price service pack
Warranty	5yr/ unlimited km
Roadside Assist	5Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Overall Rating	92/100
Behind the Wheel	9
Comfort	9
Equipment	9
Performance	9
Ride and Handling	10
Practicality	9
Fit for Purpose	10
Style / appeal	9
Technology / connectivity	9
Value for Money	9

Dimensions
Overall Length	4407mm
Wheelbase	2640mm
Width	1851mm
Height	1479mm
Wheels	18 x 8.5J ENKEI cast alloy
Tyres	Yokohama ADVAN V601 235/40ZR18 tyres
Max ground clearance	Up to 120mm
Wading Depth	N/A
Approach	N/A
Rampover	N/A
Departure angle	N/A
Turning Circle KTK	11.52m
Boot Capacity Min	N/A
Boot capacity Max	213L
Battery Weight	N/A
Kerb Weight	1470kg
Payload (kg)	445kg
GVM (kg)	1915kg
GCM	N/A
Towing Capacity	N/A
Tow Ball rating	N/A

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