Toyota is delivering a new model for 2021: Corolla Apex Edition. This APEX Edition package is available on the Corolla SE model grade.

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-litre 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 150 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 “grow their own,” Toyota is equipping just 50 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.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex’s design

A sport, 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.

The Corolla Apex Edition really lives up to its name thanks to the 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 (15.2 mm) 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. (1 kg) per wheel.

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 exclusive exterior colour for the Corolla Apex Edition, Cement Grey with Black Sand Pearl roof available on a manual and automatic transmission, and features black mirror caps.

The triple J-shaped clearance lamps with LED lights along with LED turn signals give the SE grade an audacious look upfront, while LED taillamps with smoked outer light lenses to create a unique lighting signature in the back.

The Corolla SE Apex Edition will feature sport fabric seats with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power slide moonroof.

A Dynamic Force 

The Corolla Apex Edition is suitably powered for its mission by the 2.0-litre Dynamic Force Engine.

Standard in all Corolla SE grades, the engine derives its impressive power and efficiency from a high compression Toyota D-4S 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-litre 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, the manufacture estimated fuel consumption is 7.6 L/100 km city / 5.8 L/100 km highway / 6.7 L/100 km combined.

With the 6-speed iMT, the estimated fuel consumption is 8.2 L/100 km city / 6.5 L/100 km highway / 7.4 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan is offered with a choice of several powertrains. The refined L series models are built around a powerful yet efficient 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine that generates 139 peak horsepower and is paired with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The sportier S series models are fitted with a larger, 2.0-litre Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine that delivers 169 peak horsepower, paired with either an intelligent manual transmission with rev-matching or a direct shift CVT with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Regardless of powertrain, all models enjoy a low centre of gravity, a highly rigid body structure, and a finely tuned multi-link rear suspension that makes the Corolla Sedan agile and responsive.

Corolla’s new features for 2021

The entire Corolla line debuts enhancements for 2021. All models gain Android Auto compatibility, joining the Apple CarPlay™ compatibility that was already standard on the 2020 model.

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 LE grade or above 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.

High Tech and Advanced Safety Onboard

The 2021 Corolla SE APEX edition comes standard with Audio Plus with Remote that includes Remote Connect (1-year trial), Safety Connect (1-year trial), and Service Connect (10-year trial). Also standard on the SE grade is an 8 inch. touch-screen display; six speakers; 1 USB audio port, 1 USB charge port and SiriusXM® with a 3-month All Access trial.

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 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, and exterior badges give the Corolla Nightshade edition a factory-custom look.

The SE Upgrade package comes standard with the 169-horsepower 2.0-litre Dynamic Force Engine and offers the choice between the Dynamic Shift CVT or 6-speed iMT.

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 (CVT only)

For more information, visit toyota.ca.