The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a thrill-seeker’s dream, offering an exciting driving experience without compromising daily practicality. Its sporty design, impressive performance, and advanced safety features make it a compelling option in the hot hatch segment. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush on the track or a spirited daily driver, the GR Corolla delivers in style.
In this article, we’ll delve into the GR Corolla, its remarkable features, and how it stacks up against competitors like the Hyundai i30N, Volkswagen Golf R, and Honda Civic Type R.
Exterior: A Feast for the Eyes
The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla Hatchback is a visual delight with its aggressive design. Available in seven distinct exterior colors, some exclusive to the top-spec version, it’s a head-turner. From the functional gills on the bonnet to the distinctive GR badge, the exterior exudes sportiness. Pumped arches, 18-inch alloy wheels (lightweight in the top version), and eye-catching vents contribute to its aesthetic appeal. The GR Corolla’s rear sports a GR Corolla badge, a trio of exhaust pipes, and sleek piano black accents. This hatchback is undoubtedly a showstopper in the making.
Interior: A Sporty Haven
Inside, the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is no less impressive. Key details, such as GR branding on the gear stick, steering wheel, and seats, signal the car’s sporty character. The cabin offers a premium feel with an 8-inch infotainment system (although a larger screen would be an improvement) and an 8-speaker JBL sound system that caters to your entertainment needs. The 12.3-inch digital display ahead of the driver is highly configurable, providing various driving data and making you feel in control.
Safety Technology: Assured Protection
The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is equipped with advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, radar cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and front and rear parking sensors. While it lacks an auto-dimming rearview mirror, it still offers impressive safety tech.
Practicality: A Few Compromises
In terms of practicality, the GR Corolla has room for improvement. Connectivity options include USB-C ports, wireless phone charging, and a 12-volt outlet, but they might feel somewhat scattered. The lack of a center console is noticeable, and bottle storage inside the cabin is limited. The rear seats might be cramped for taller passengers, and there are no rear air vents.
On the Road: A Thrilling Drive
The true essence of the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla comes alive on the road. With a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 221 kW and 370 Nm of torque, it offers a thrilling driving experience. It boasts impressive acceleration and a lively exhaust note, making every drive an adventure. The car’s suspension, while firm, still maintains a comfortable ride. The steering is communicative, and the brakes are responsive, providing a dynamic yet controlled driving experience.
Performance: Impressive Figures
The GR Corolla delivers impressive performance. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.79 seconds, it showcases its prowess. The 80 to 120 km/h sprint takes just 3.61 seconds, a remarkable feat for a three-cylinder engine. The car’s brakes perform admirably, with a 100 to 0 km/h stopping distance of 38.08 meters.
Toyota GR Corolla Price
In 2023, the GR Corolla is set to roll out with a trio of enticing trim choices: Core, Circuit, and Morizo Edition. The journey begins with the Core, the entry-level option, offering a starting price of $36,995. Stepping up the game, the Circuit trim comes in at $43,995, promising a thrilling drive. At the zenith, the track-ready Morizo Edition awaits, priced at $50,995, promising the pinnacle of performance.
