PLANO, Texas, July 15, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota has a
message to driving enthusiasts looking for a head-turning,
corner-carving affordable sport sedan, and it's right in the name
of a special new model for 2021: Corolla Apex Edition. In track
driving, drivers aim to "clip the apex" of a corner to achieve the
quickest lap times. This Apex Edition package is available on
either the Corolla SE or XSE and will turn heads while turning
corners with greater zeal.
The Apex Edition maximizes the inherent potential of the Corolla
sedan's high-strength TNGA-C platform, multi-link rear suspension
and 169-horsepower 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine. A factory-custom
body package accentuates the Corolla's edgy styling, and the new
model issues a punchier bark with a sport-tuned exhaust unique to
Corolla Apex.
Toyota will offer 6,000 Corolla Apex Editions for 2021, with
most equipped with the Dynamic Shift CVT (continuously variable
transmission). The CVT offers simulated 10-speed Sequential
Shiftmatic steps, Sport Mode, and paddle shifters. The key to the
Dynamic Shift CVT's distinct performance feel is a gearset used as
a "first" gear for start-off acceleration, before seamlessly
handing off to the CVT's pulley system.
For sports driving purists who like to "row their own," Toyota
is equipping just 120 of these special models based on the SE grade
with the 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6 iMT). With
downshift rev-matching control, the 6-speed intelligent Manual
Transmission (6 iMT) automatically adjusts engine revs when
changing gears, ensuring smooth shifting that makes any driver feel
like a stick-shift pro.
Grabbing Attention, Gripping the Curves
Before the Corolla Apex Edition turns its first corner, it will
attract stares with its low profile, hunkered-down look. A sporty,
aerodynamic black body kit complete with bronze accents, a front
spoiler, fog light covers, side moldings and rear diffuser aid in
high-speed vehicle stability. A rear trunk aero spoiler will be
available as an additional option for those who want to display
even more attitude.
The Corolla Apex Edition really lives up to its name thanks to
unique track-tuned suspension. Toyota engineers developed the
dynamic characteristics through extensive testing on different
tracks around the world, including TMC Higashi-Fuji Proving Ground
in Japan, Toyota Arizona Proving
Ground and MotorSport Ranch in Texas.
Unique coil springs lower the vehicle by 0.6 inches while the
increased spring rate reduces vehicle roll angle and provides
flatter cornering and steering response. Specially tuned shocks
with internal rebound springs provide increased damping force that
controls vertical and roll movement. Unique solid stabilizer bars
with increased rigidity help to decrease vehicle roll angle while
improving overall agility. Additionally, new jounce bumpers ensure
the lowered ride height doesn't hinder ride quality. All combined
Apex Edition suspension changes increase roll stiffness by 47% in
the front and 33% in the rear.
The 18-inch flow-formed cast aluminum wheels feature a gloss
black appearance, but even more importantly they are specially
developed to aid in brake cooling while offering a mass reduction
of 2.2 lbs. per wheel. They can be paired with either an all-season
tire or an optional summer tire that helps improve lateral grip,
steering precision and yaw response. Bespoke electronic power
steering (EPS) has been tuned specifically for the Apex Edition to
complement its dynamic suspension changes. The new EPS tuning
provides a distinctive flavor with a sportier, v-shaped build-up
response. All of these changes are paired with a specially
developed catback exhaust that features a throatier, aggressive
tone at start-up while also providing a bolder, enhanced tone at
wide-open throttle. A unique 3.5-inch stainless steel tip was
developed to match the vehicle's styling.
The bronze/black combo plays off the three exterior color
choices for the Corolla Apex Edition, including exclusive Cement
with Black Sand Pearl roof; Super White with Black Sand Pearl roof;
and Black Sand Pearl. With any color choice, the Apex Edition
features black mirror caps. The triple J-shaped clearance lamps
with LED lights along with LED turn signals give the SE and XSE
grades an audacious look up front, while LED taillamps with smoked
outer light lenses create a unique lighting signature in back.
The Corolla SE Apex Edition will feature premium fabric
upholstery, while the XSE Apex Edition has black SofTex®-trimmed
fabric upholstery. The XSE Apex Edition will also feature heated
front seats, including an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with
power lumbar support.
A Dynamic Force to be Reckoned With
The Corolla Apex Edition is suitably powered for its mission by
the 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine. Standard in all Corolla SE and
XSE grades, the engine derives its impressive power and efficiency
from a high-compression Toyota D4-S fuel injection system (13:1)
that combines direct injection and secondary port injectors;
high-speed combustion; VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing on
the intake side, and VVT-i on the exhaust. VVT-iE uses an electric
motor instead of oil pressure to control the variable valve
timing.
A two-discharge-port oil pump and a variable cooling system with
electric water pump help maximize engine performance and
efficiency. The more efficient cooling system also ensures quicker
cabin heating on cold days and quicker cool-down when the air
conditioner is used. All of these technologies, along with
ultra-low internal friction, give the 2.0-liter engine a maximum
thermal efficiency of 40 percent, among the highest for a current
passenger vehicle engine.
You can't feel thermal efficiency, but you can feel the effects
of 169 peak horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb.-ft. peak torque at
4,800 rpm, whether channeled through the Dynamic Shift CVT or
6-speed iMT. With the CVT, EPA-estimated fuel economy is 31 city /
41 highway / 34 combined MPG (31/38/34 for XSE). With the 6-speed
iMT, the fuel economy is 29/36/32 MPG.
The 2021 Corolla sedan L, LE and XLE grades will continue to use
the 1.8-liter four-cylinder DOHC 16-Valve engine producing 139
horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 126 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,900 rpm.
The Corolla LE Hybrid, which saw enormous success in its first
year, returns for 2021 with the same gas-sipping 1.8-liter
four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with two motor/generators
through an electronically controlled planetary-type continuously
variable transmission (CVT) transaxle. Combined system output of
121 horsepower yields decidedly responsive performance.
Corolla Gets Even Better for 2021
The entire Corolla line debuts enhancements for 2021. All models
gain Android Auto compatibility, joining the Apple CarPlay and
Amazon Alexa compatibility that were already standard on the 2020
model. SiriusXM with a 3-month All Access trial is also now
available across all Corolla grades.
Toyota also enhanced safety for the 2021 Corolla Sedan, adding
rear side airbags to bring the total number of airbags in the
vehicle to 10. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitor
will be standard on the XLE and XSE grades and optional for the LE
and LE Hybrid and SE grade with CVT.
All Corolla models for 2021 gain Automatic Engine Shut-Off,
which will automatically turn off the engine after a pre-determined
period of time in the event the vehicle is left running. The system
can send an enhanced audible and visual warning to the Smart Key
system control fob, and future enhancements will include smartphone
app capabilities as an added reminder.
As a special value, the 2021 Corolla LE grade (gas model) will
offer a new Convenience Package that combines Blind Spot Monitor,
Smart Key system and 16-inch alloy wheels.
High Tech Onboard
Smart Key with Push Button Start is standard for the Corolla
Apex Editions, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
is standard on the XSE Apex Edition and optional for the SE Apex
Edition with CVT.
The standard audio multimedia system on both the SE and XSE
grades includes an 8-in. touch-screen display; six speakers;
Android AutoTM & Apple CarPlay® & Amazon Alexa
compatible, USB media port, 1 USB charge port, hands-free phone
capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology,
and SiriusXM® with 3-month All Access trial.
The XSE further adds Audio Plus, which is optional on the SE
grade with CVT and includes Service Connect and Remote Connect. The
available Premium Audio package for both grades adds a JBL
9-speaker, 800-watt system; Dynamic Voice Recognition; Dynamic
Navigation; Dynamic Points of Interest Search, and Destination
Assist Connect.
Bold and Sleek: Corolla Nightshade Edition Returns for
2021
The Corolla Nightshade Edition returns for 2021 on the SE grade.
This one is another eye-grabber, with bold black accents garnishing
the customer's choice of Super White, Classic Silver Metallic or
Black Sand Pearl exteriors. Blacked-out 18-inch alloy wheels, along
with black bumpers, front grille surround, mirror caps, side
rockers, door handles, rear spoiler, shark fin antenna and exterior
badges give the Corolla Nightshade edition a factory custom
look.
The SE grade comes standard with the 169-horsepower 2.0-liter
Dynamic Force Engine and offers the choice between the Dynamic
Shift CVT or 6-speed iMT, making the Nightshade Edition a feisty
performer.
Advanced Safety Tech
All 2021 Corolla models, including the Apex Edition, will come
standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assist
technologies. TSS 2.0 was already standard on all 2020 Corolla
models and includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Daytime/Low-Light Vehicle and
Pedestrian Detection, plus Daytime Bicycle Detection
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (CVT only)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge
Detection
- Automatic High Beams
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Road Sign Assist
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the
U.S. and North America for more
than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable,
next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus
brands. During that time, Toyota has created a tremendous
value chain as our teams have contributed to world-class design,
engineering, and assembly of more than 38 million cars and trucks
in North America, where we have 14
manufacturing plants, 15 including our joint venture in
Alabama (10 in the U.S.), and
directly employ more than 47,000 people (over 36,000 in the
U.S.). Our 1,800 North American dealerships (nearly 1,500 in
the U.S.) sold 2.8 million cars and trucks (2.4 million in the
U.S.) in 2018.
Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights
the way it partners with community, civic, academic and
governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing
mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move,
anything is possible. For more information about Toyota,
visit ToyotaNewsroom.com.
Media Contacts:
Zachary Reed
469-292-3499
zachary.reed@toyota.com
Note to Editors: Photos and b-roll can be found on
ToyotaNewsroom.com
For customer inquiries, please call: 800-331-4331
View original content to download
multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2021-toyota-corolla-apex-edition-aims-for-the-curves-in-bold-style-301093627.html
SOURCE Toyota