TOYOTA

GR Corolla 2023 Gazoo Racing

After numerous teasers and preliminary information, Toyota finally made official last Thursday (31/03) the launch of the long-awaited GR Corolla 2023. The model has the development signed by Gazoo Racing and debuts with very striking features. It will be sold in markets in North America and Europe, in addition to Brazil.

As expected, Toyota made important changes, and using the acronym GR, transformed the hatchback into a true performance vehicle. To begin with, the great highlight is the mechanical set starring the 1.6 turbo G16E-GTS engine. The engine delivers 304 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 370 Nm of torque between 3,000 and 5,500 rpm, always mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

Also part of the package is the sophisticated GR-Four all-wheel drive system, which includes polarized torque distribution to the rear and limited-slip differentials on both axles. It also has selectable torque split settings in proportions 60-40, 50-50 and 30-70, depending on the driver's preference.

Performance data such as acceleration and top speed was not revealed. Toyota is secretive about the numbers and is expected to reveal them only on a later occasion.

The GR Corolla also has important modifications to the GA-C platform, which gained additional weld points to reinforce the structure. In addition, the hood and front door panels are now made of aluminum (an important feature for weight reduction), while the bodywork gains new aerodynamic structures and flared fenders on the sides. Finally, suspension and brakes were also reinforced.

In the visual, highlight for the aggressiveness added to the lines. The front, for example, has a completely redesigned bumper, wide air intake and hood with much more striking creases. The sides get 18-inch wheels with 15-spoke design and gloss black finish, shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 235/40 R18 tires. At the back, there's a new bumper, new exhaust outlets and an eye-catching spoiler.

In the cabin, the digital panel with 12.3-inch screen includes views of the selected drive mode, turbo pressure, selected gear indicator and tachometer. The driver will shift gears on a short lever that Toyota says is "naturally suited to the driver's arm." There's also a new steering wheel and 8.0-inch screen for the infotainment system.

In the United States, the 2023 GR Corolla will be sold in two versions: Core, more basic, and Circuit Edition, more complete. The first will always be available in white, black and red. Inside, it will have fabric-covered sports seats and a black and silver color scheme. As an option, there's a Cold Weather package that adds heating to the steering wheel and front seats. There will also be a navigation system and wireless charging for smartphones.

In turn, the GR Corolla Circuit Edition will feature a carbon fiber roof and body in white, red or gray. The brake calipers are red and have the GR logo. It also offers functional hood openings, gloss black accents and Torsen limited-slip differentials for the front and rear axles (optional on the Core). Inside, the highlights are leather and suede-covered seats, as well as a more refined sound system.

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