Obviously the first thing I noticed was just how low the GR Corolla is. These old knees and hips strained getting in and out.

However once inside it was comfortable with plenty of room for the front occupants. The sports seat kept you snug, but I would have liked some electronic adjustment.

Even though it’s a sports hatchback, there are still some comfort features like heated front seats, wireless apple CarPlay connectivity and a Head up Display.

Performance comes from a 1.6 L three-cylinder turbo petrol engine that provides 221 kW of power and 400 Nm of torque. This drives through a clever GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, supported with Torsen®² limited-slip differentials on both the front and rear axles.

The six-speed manual is slick and easy to use and allows you enjoy the raspy exhaust note.

First gear is incredibly short, and you are grabbing second almost immediately. Around town you find yourself driving mainly in fourth and fifth gear.

This is a fun car to drive. That’s its main purpose for me. Simple, performance-based fun.

Drivers can achieve better performance from some of the EV’s running around. But they lack the personality and soul of the GR Corolla.

Pricing for the six speed GR Corolla is from $67,990 plus the usual costs.

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I’m Rob Fraser

Readers can find more details about the GR Corolla GTS – HERE

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What is good?

• Sporty performance and adjustable AWD
• Fun, personality, and soul
• Smooth six speed MT

What is not so good?

• Ride can be a little harsh at times.
• Starting to get a little expensive
• No full-size spare

GR Corolla GTS buyers could also look at:

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

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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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You can read more PRODUCT DETAILS HERE

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.

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.

*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)

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