Even for RM355k, the newly launched Toyota GR Corolla's arrival should still be celebrated

Out of all the cars introduced today at the opening of Toyota's Gazoo Racing Festival, the Toyota GR Corolla is probably the most exciting car out of the bunch. And it has arrived pretty much on schedule.

The GR Corolla is the second Gazoo Racing sports car built from the ground up, whereas the rest are vehicles built in collaboration between Toyota and other auto manufacturers.

For a little reference, the GR Yaris, a car that shares the same powertrain and clever GR-FOUR four-wheel drive system, was offered here for much less: RM299k back at its 2020 launch. 

It's price starting at RM355k is also very interesting. It's not cheap by any means but it is considerably less than what our neighbours in Thailand have been paying since the car made its ASEAN debut there in latter 2022.

It’s built upon the the hatchback bodystyle of the 12th-generation (E210) Toyota Corolla which until now has been denied to us. However, the brand has made some significant enhancements that also happen to alter it cosmetically by quite some margin.

Under the bonnet of the GR Corolla is the same powerplant found in the GR Yaris, the G16E-GTS 1.6-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged engine. However, to give it the same amounts of performance as its little brother, the engine has been further enhanced to boost power output to 300 PS at 6,500 rpm and 370 Nm between 3,000  and 5,550 rpm. 

Just like the GR Yaris, the GR Corolla is available exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission (iMT) and the famous GR-Four all-wheel-drive (AWD) system developed through TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s involvement in the World Rally Championship.

Its 0-100km/h sprint takes just 5.2 seconds, or so officially claimed - exactly level with the GR Yaris’ advertised numbers. That said, these acceleration times seem to vary between regions, so take that with a grain of salt. 

To enhance its grip and stability even further, the GR Corolla comes with a Torsen limited-slip differential on the front and rear axles. At the four corners, the GR Corolla is equipped with 18-inch black ENKEI alloy wheels, fitted with 235/40 high-performance Yokohama ADVAN Apex tyres.