By: Krish Persaud
July 12, 2023
The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a great blend of reliability, practicality, and style, all encapsulated within a sleek and stylish hatchback design. Toyota Canada graciously allowed us the opportunity to put this extraordinary ‘hot hatch’ to the test, and we were utterly astounded by its exceptional capabilities. Stay tuned as we delve into its standout features, unraveling the reasons why the GR Corolla is causing a sensation within the performance hatchback segment.
Behind its sleek exterior, the GR Corolla conceals a lively spirit—a vibrant, turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine that unleashes an astonishing 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This lightweight powerhouse sets the GR Corolla apart from its competitors. Yet, it’s more than just raw power; it embodies the profound bond between humans and machines. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, this dynamic duo provides an exhilarating driving experience that enlivens your senses and leaves you grinning from ear to ear.
The 2023 GR Corolla shows off the impressive GR-Four system, designed to bring out the thrill-seeking side of drivers. It’s not just about the numbers and technical details; it’s about the human connection to the road. With the driver-adjustable front-to-rear torque split, the GR Corolla grants enthusiasts the power to tailor their driving experience. In the default Normal mode, the car intelligently distributes 60% of the engine torque to the front axle, providing stability while maintaining a touch of excitement with the remaining power sent to the rear. However, for those craving a more exhilarating ride, a simple press of the Track button transforms the torque split into a perfectly balanced 50/50 distribution, instilling a sense of confidence and control. But that’s not where the fun ends. By engaging the Sport drive mode and disabling traction control, drivers can immerse themselves in the sideways joy of a 30/70 torque split, allowing for unforgettable moments of pure driving pleasure. The GR Corolla’s limited-slip differentials ensure that power is distributed with precision, enabling a neutral handling balance and predictable performance. Fine-tuning the throttle response permits drivers to make subtle adjustments to their line, although it takes bold and aggressive inputs to unleash the car’s full drift potential.
The GR Corolla showcases its sporty DNA through its striking exterior design. With sleek lines, an assertive grille, and aerodynamic features, it exudes a captivating presence on the road, leaving onlookers questioning if it’s just a Corolla. Rest assured, it’s far from ordinary. The 18-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler, and unique styling elements effortlessly set this hatchback apart from the rest. The GR Corolla perfectly blends style and performance into a package that leaves us craving for more.
Step into the GR Corolla and immerse yourself in an interior designed exclusively for the driver. The sport seats offer exceptional support and comfort, ensuring a pleasant experience during spirited drives, although they may feel a tad firm for some. The use of premium materials and stylish accents creates an atmosphere of refinement and sophistication, adding a touch of luxury to your journey. As your hands grip the steering wheel, you’ll instantly feel connected to the GR Corolla, as its weight and responsiveness put you in complete control of your driving experience. Seamlessly harmonized with the interior, the advanced infotainment system, featuring a responsive touchscreen display, effortlessly integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation with ease. Get ready to indulge in a driving sanctuary where comfort, style, and technology come together to elevate your driving pleasure to new heights.
The GR Corolla is a practical choice that doesn’t compromise on performance. With its hatchback body style, it offers ample cargo space, making it suitable for everyday use and weekend getaways. The GR Corolla provides a generous cargo capacity of 504 liters (17.8 cubic feet), allowing you to easily accommodate your belongings. The rear seats can be easily folded down to further expand the cargo area adding to its versatility.
Safety is a top priority in the GR Corolla, connecting with today’s discerning buyers through its commitment to advanced safety features. Toyota has taken safety to the next level with the enhanced Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, equipping this hatchback with a comprehensive suite of intelligent safety technologies. From adaptive cruise control to lane departure warning and forward collision warning, the GR Corolla offers an advanced safety package that ensures peace of mind on every journey. With Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, you can rely on the latest advancements in driver assistance, providing enhanced protection and assistance when you need it most. Whether you’re navigating highways or city streets, the GR Corolla is equipped to keep you safe and secure, making it an ideal choice for safety-conscious buyers who prioritize their well-being and that of their passengers.
The GR Corolla not only offers exceptional performance and safety but also delivers impressive fuel economy, catering to the needs of today’s environmentally conscious drivers. According to Toyota Canada, the GR Corolla boasts a fuel consumption rating of 11.1 L/100km in the city, 8.3 L/100km on the highway, and a combined rating of 9.8 L/100km. During our 500km test week, we achieved a fuel consumption of 9.3 L/100km with a mixture of spirited and tamed driving habits. With its combination of power and fuel efficiency, the GR Corolla strikes a balance that appeals to buyers who prioritize both performance and eco-friendliness. It is worth noting that the GR Corolla is equipped with a 50-litre fuel tank and requires premium fuel for optimal performance.
The GR Corolla is competitively priced in Canada, with the Core trim starting price of $48,604.50. Additionally, for those seeking a more exclusive and sporty option, there is the GR Corolla Circuit Edition available at a starting price of $57,104.50. These pricing options make the GR Corolla lineup a compelling value proposition, offering a blend of performance, practicality, and style at an accessible price point.
The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is the ultimate performance hatchback that combines power, style, and practicality into an exceptional package. With its turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive capability, and sporty design, it offers an exhilarating driving experience that will ignite all your senses. Whether you’re conquering winding roads or navigating city streets, the GR Corolla will captivate you with its impressive performance and sleek aesthetics. In the highly competitive hot hatch segment, it stands as a formidable contender against rivals like the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Honda Civic Type R, and Hyundai Veloster N. Experience the sheer joy of driving a hatchback that seamlessly blends power, style, and everyday functionality. Get ready to redefine your driving experience with the thrilling GR Corolla.
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