Although the idea is great, execution leaves much to be desired.
We’re patiently waiting for Toyota’s GR Corolla to arrive, but the compact model will be getting a Nurburgring Edition here in Thailand. This decision to update the Corolla Altis, as it is locally known, makes sense since Toyota Gazoo Racing Team Thailand won class victory at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring 2021 with a race-prepped Corolla.
Road-going models are modeled after race cars in that they have mildly modified exteriors with bumper add-ons, and a custom grille similar to the Corolla which won the Super Production 3 (SP3) class in the legendary endurance race. Toyota also included chunky side skirts, a trunk spoiler and a pseudo diffuser that is integrated into the more aggressive rear bumper.
You can distinguish it visually by the “Corolla Altis Nurburgring 24” badges on the front of the vehicle. Also, the ride height is lower after stiffer springs were installed. Toyota claims it also has an “accelerator controller box”, which improves pedal response but no power upgrades. This means that you will still have the same 1.8-liter gasoline engine with a powerful 138 horsepower, or a hybrid with 121 horsepower. The special-edition sedan transmits power to the front axle via a CVT, regardless of its powertrain.
The Toyota Corolla Nurburgring Edition does not represent the only sportsy variant available in Thailand. However, the GR Sport version is also available with a comparable starting price at less than $30,000 (current exchange rates). All upgrades offered by the “special edition” can be used free of cost if the customer chooses to purchase premium insurance at approximately $915.