Toyota's new Corolla: the world's best-selling sedan surprises with an update that disappointed fans and caused controversy in the automotive market
The new Toyota's Corolla GR arrived doing 23,8 km/l to shake up the automotive market with a sporty proposal that promises to attract attention. With a redesigned design and unique details, the world's best-selling sedan is now trying to attract the public looking for style and technology. But is this version really what fans expected?
Toyota surprised everyone with a bold choice, which not everyone considers positive. Discover all the details of the Corolla GR Sport and understand why this update is dividing opinions and becoming a topic of conversation all over the internet.
Toyota's new Corolla hits the market with a promise of 23,8 km/l economy, but fans are disappointed
Toyota has just launched an updated version of the Corolla, the car that won over millions, but now in a format that may not please everyone. The GR Sport edition, presented in Thailand, brought some aesthetic changes, but, contrary to what many expected, it does not present major mechanical innovations.
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Although the name โGR Sportโ refers to a sportier style, this Corolla variant does not compare to the famous GR Corolla, desired by many Toyota fans in Brazil. In Thailand, the Corolla GR Sport features visual elements that highlight an aggressive appearance, but are limited to the visual aspect.
This version has a hybrid engine, now with a new battery that promises better efficiency. However, don't expect an increase in power or performance.
Refreshed design and sporty details: the new Corolla GR Sport combines modern style and sophistication
The exterior changes reinforce a modern design. The front of the new Corolla features a redesigned grille, with square air intakes that recall, albeit subtly, the more robust look of the GR Corolla.
This second facelift for the model sold in the Asian market could be the last until a new generation arrives. As for the sides, the Corolla GR Sportt receives new dark 17-inch wheels, which complement the sporty touch that Toyota sought in this update.
At the rear, the changes are more discreet. The main novelty is the addition of a new spoiler over the trunk lid, accompanied by a spoiler on the bumper that was already present in previous versions.
In addition, the taillights now feature a darkened look, but maintain the original design and LED technology present throughout the Corolla line. With these modifications, Toyota seeks to please the public that wants a car with a sporty appearance, even without the expected performance.
Inside, Toyota has maintained the Corolla's standard, but has added specific details to differentiate the GR Sport version. The seats are now covered in perforated leather, which increases the model's comfort and sophistication.
Another important detail is the presence of the GR logo on the start button and steering wheel, elements that highlight the car's sporty identity. However, apart from these details, the cabin remains practically the same as the other versions of the sedan.
Cutting-edge technology: new Corolla GR Sport focuses on connectivity and advanced digital dashboard
The infotainment system has also received an interesting update. The GR Sport version of the Corolla comes equipped with a 12,3-inch digital dashboard, fully configurable, which integrates with a 9-inch touchscreen for the multimedia system.
This system is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, allowing drivers to easily access vehicle information and view hybrid system performance. With this configuration, the Corolla GR Sport offers an advanced technological experience for those who prioritize connectivity.
New Toyota Corolla disappoints fans who were expecting a more powerful engine
Despite improvements to the steering and suspension, the Corolla GR Sport does not offer a more powerful engine. Toyota has implemented a specific calibration for the electric power steering and adjustments to the shock absorbers and springs to provide a more stable ride at high speeds.
Still, the lack of a more robust engine may be a disappointment for those expecting more exciting performance. Even so, these modifications improve the sedan's handling, giving it a slightly firmer and more secure feeling on the road.
The Corolla GR Sport's biggest weakness, however, is its engine. Unlike the model sold in Argentina, which has a 2.0-liter engine, the Thai GR Sport only has a hybrid system, consisting of a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and an electric motor, delivering a total of 122 horsepower.
New Japanese car hits the market with 23,8 km/l
The main innovation here is the replacement of nickel batteries with lithium-ion batteries, which increases efficiency and reduces consumption. Toyota claims an average consumption of 4,2 liters per hundred kilometers, a positive point for those looking to save money.
For the Thai market, Toyota still offers versions of the Corolla with 1.6-liter and 1.8-liter gasoline engines. However, neither of these options are available in the GR Sport version, which seems to focus more on style than performance.
In this way, Toyota seems to be targeting the Corolla GR Sport at consumers looking for a differentiated sedan, but without expectations of superior power.
How much does this dear cost?
The Corolla GR Sport is currently being sold in Thailand for the equivalent of $32.900, while the conventional hybrid version costs around $3.000 less. So for those looking for a Corolla with a more aggressive look but without significant changes in performance, the new Corolla GR Sport could be an option, but it may not be what Toyota enthusiasts were hoping for.
My wife has a hybrid Corolla, it doesn't do 22km per liter, crying it does about 18.
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