The new Toyota Corolla BTCC made its first on-track
appearance at the Oulton Park circuit in the UK in preparation for its
inaugural first racing season. Team Toyota GB in collaboration with Speedworks Motosport enjoyed a
problem-free shakedown test with the new Corolla Touring Car, which was driven
by Tom Ingram.
The new Corolla will participate in this year’s Kwik
Fit British Touring Car Championship powered by a 2.0-liter petrol engine. It
will go against the race versions of the new BMW 3-Series, Mercedes A-Class and
Honda Civic Type R, among others.
“It was a very productive day. We have plenty of
testing planned and the Corolla looks good straight out of the box, so fingers
crossed we’ll be right on the pace at the first round,” said Team Principal
Christian Dick.
The new race car version of the Corolla made its
track debut wearing a camouflage livery as a nod to the appearance of the Supra
prototype at last year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. Development of Toyota’s
new BTCC warrior resumes this week at the Calafat track in Spain, with the 2019
season set to begin at Brands Hatch on April 6.
