Toyota has unveiled its Gazoo Racing-inspired Corolla GR Sport hatchback ahead of an official debut at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show in March 2019.
This angry-looking hatch is set apart from its standard stablemates thanks to the addition of a revised grille (in dark chrome), new side-skirts and bespoke 18-inch alloys. GR badges are proudly displayed round the car (featured here in an exclusive two-tone grey hue).
Toyota says the sportier version of the new Corolla Hatch is offered with an array of standard features, including LED headlamps, tinted rear windows and front foglamps. The interior features GR-spec black-and-red stitching on the steering wheel, instrument panel and gear shift lever. Cloth seats are standard, with leather optional.
Though not quite a full-blown GRMN (even if reports suggest this is only a matter of time), the GR Sport model is expected to employ either a 1,8- or a 2,0-litre petrol engine, which each employing hybrid technology.
Speaking to the folks at Dutch website AutoRI.nl, Toshio Kanai, deputy chief designer at Toyota, recently said a high-performance version of the new-generation Corolla Hatch should arrive midway through the standard model’s production cycle. Although the project is still at the planning stage, Kanai confirmed that while the chassis of the hottest Corolla Hatch should prove easy to finalise, the drivetrain requirements may take a little longer to refine.
