Based on either the mid-or top-range versions of the standard Corolla hatch powered by the 90kW 1.8-litre hybrid or 132kW 2.0-litre electrically assisted engines, the GR Sport mainly adds a number of bespoke cosmetics tweaks such as a GR-specific body kit, a dark chrome grille, machined 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, standard LED headlights, dual chrome-tipped exhaust outlets and a two-tone black/grey paint finish.
Also receiving the GR Sport treatment, the interior comes with black fabric seats incorporating leather-like side bolsters, and black-and-red stitching on the steering wheel, gear lever and on the instrument panel. Optional though are full leather seats.
At the other end of the spectrum, the Trek comes as a result of Toyota partnering with Trek Bicycle, and while it uses the Touring Sports estate as a base, adds a 20mm ground clearance, black wheel arch extensions, satin silver front and rear skidplates, silver side skirts and unique 17-inch machined alloy wheels.
The introduction of the GR Sport has meanwhile added more fuel to the fire that a full-blown Corolla Gazoo Racing Master of the Nürburgring (GRMN) might happen at some point, with a weekend report from the Netherlands hinting that it might eschew the use of a hybrid powertrain completely.
In October last year, former Toyota South Africa Managing Director, and now President and CEO of Toyota Europe, Dr Johan van Zyl, remarked that the 2.0-litre hybrid Corolla stood the best chance of receiving the GRMN treatment as the automaker has what it takes to do a “more exciting, sporty hybrid. The technology is there. It’s just the way you tune it”.
According to autorai.nl though, Toyota’s Deputy Chief of Design, Toshio Kanei, has ruled out the use of a hybrid powertrain, stating that a conventional 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine rated as the best option.
“We want more power, an even sportier engine and lower CO2 emissions. A four-cylinder turbo engine with an engine capacity of about 1.6 litres can be interesting,” Kanei told the online platform in an interview.
Describing the possibility of the GRMN happening as “certainly realistic”, Kanei added that the model could, in fact, become a ‘world car’ though quickly remarked that nothing has been confirmed yet.
“The car has a relatively short development time because the basis is already there. [The] TNGA [platform] forms an excellent basis. Developing the powertrain takes more time. In my view, we can best bring the GRMN into the middle of the Corolla life cycle,” he said.
Locally, Toyota South Africa has already announced pricing for the Corolla hatch due out next month.
