A fourth model joins the Toyota GR Sport range in Malaysia with the launch of the new Toyota Corolla GR Sport tonight. The new model is accompanied by updated versions of the current 12th generation Corolla 1.8E and 1.8G which were launched in the Malaysian market in October 2019.
The GR Sport range was inspired by the GR Vios Challenge one-make series which began locally in 2017 and continues to this day. GR, which stands for GAZOO Racing, Toyota’s high-performance and motorsports unit, was still new then and UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) wanted to offer something sporty and developed a Vios version with enhanced driving dynamics.
It was known as the Vios GR Sport and was initially only available in Malaysia. The positive response to the Vios GR Sport led to the concept being adopted regionally for other Toyota models. This was timely as the pure GR models – the GR Supra, GR Yaris, GR Corolla and GR 86 – were making their appearance as well.
Following the regional introduction of the Vios GR Sport, Toyota also began to develop GR Sport versions of other models like the Corolla Cross and Hilux. These have been well received too, with the Hilux GR Sport attracting interest as far as Australia.
Now comes the Corolla GR Sport (or GR-S) which shares a similar 4-door sedan body as the Corolla 1.8E and 1.8G. As these have been updated, it also benefits from having the latest features and styling.
While the other two versions have a wide range of colour choices, the Corolla GR-S has just three: Red Mica Metallic, Platinum White Pearl MC and Attitude Black.
To make it easier to see the exclusive features of the Corolla GR-S, we’ll present them in a pictorial layout.
Sportier exterior appearance: At the front, the mesh-patterned radiator grille is raised while the lower section is wider black. There is also a front underbody protector installed, visually lowering the stance of the car. Unlike the other variants, the auto-retractable door mirrors of the Corolla GR-S have a black finish.
Wheels and tyres: The Corolla GR-S has larger 18-inch alloy wheels with an exclusive design and a Machine/Dark Gray Metallic finish. The tyres are also broader that the other two versions at 225/40R tyres. However, for the spare wheel, due to the larger rim size, a temporary-use spare wheel is provided to fit into the recess in the boot floor.
GR-tuned suspension: Drawing on the expertise of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, the Corolla GR-S has been given sharper handling. The components where specific tuning has been done are the shock absorbers, rear coil springs and stabilizers. The tuning, carried out with extensive track testing, has reduced roll, pitch and bouncing for smoother suspension movement. However, the firmer damping and improvements to driving dynamics have not caused a loss of ride comfort, even over rough roads. Responsiveness is enhanced while straightline stability is better, giving the driver more confidence at high speeds.
Sporty interior: The interior of the Corolla GR-S has a black theme which complements the sporty character of the car. The body-hugging seats (with an improved design) have red stitching with red side shoulder covers and red highlights on the door trim. The GR Sport emblem is also stitched on the head restraints of the front seats (and can also be found on the rear bootlid).
1.8-litre Dual VVT-i engine: The Corolla GR-S uses the proven 2ZR-FE 4-cylinder 1.8-litre DOHC 16-valve petrol engine with Dual VVT-i. Engine output of 139 ps/172 Nm goes to the front wheels through a 7-speed Sequential Shiftmatic CVT. The transmission has cooperative control and, with the electronically-controlled throttle, provides a high level of drivability, smoothness, quietness, and fuel economy. There are 2 drive modes (ECO and SPORT) selectable by the driver to suit preferences or conditions.
Priced from RM152,800 (without insurance, Peninsular Malaysia), the Corolla GR-S is offered only at authorised Toyota dealerships with GR Sport showrooms. These are dealerships which have teams participating in the GR Vios Challenge and related events. The pure GR models are available only at dealerships with the GR Garage.
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