Toyota Corolla hot hatch is ‘inevitable’ – report
Gazoo Racing-modified Corolla expected to feature a hybrid drivetrain, offer more performance.
A heated-up version of the Toyota Corolla is reportedly in the works as the company seeks to increase its desirability.
Although there's no official confirmation of such a model, adding a hero model to one of the company's most well-known and best-selling models would certainly fulfil Akio Toyoda's mission to make Toyota "fun to drive, again".
Earlier this year, we reported a Gazoo Racing Corolla was 'on the cards' during this model cycle.
Indications are the hot Corolla will be powered by a hybrid drivetrain. In Europe, the new Corolla will be available with a 134kW 2.0-litre hybrid, as well as the 91kW 1.8-litre hybrid sold in Australia.
It's not known how much power the hot Corolla will have at its disposal. If we were to make a bet, it will likely sit somewhere between the Yaris GRMN and Yaris GR Sport on the mild-to-wild continuum.
The Europe-only limited edition Yaris GRMN is powered by a supercharged 1.8-litre engine making 156kW of power and 250Nm of torque, and driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.
At this year's Paris show, the company added the tamer, but cheaper and more accessible, Yaris GR Sport to its European range. It has 11mm lower suspension, enhanced styling, 17-inch wheels, and is powered by a 74kW 1.5-litre hybrid drivetrain.
Toyota is also rumoured to be preparing a Gazoo-tuned version of the 86 for export markets.
Note: Toyota Corolla ZR Hybrid pictured above.
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