Toyota has announced a new limited-run
Corolla Sedan for the 2021 model year called the Apex Edition. Now, when you
think about limited edition cars, you don’t expect a production run of 6,000
units, but that’s exactly how many Corolla Apex Editions Toyota will build.
Combining a more aggressive design with tighter handling, the Apex Edition
package can be had with SE and XSE grades.
According to Toyota, 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.” The package includes a sport-tuned catback exhaust with 3.5-inch
stainless steel tip as well as a track-tuned suspension. The latter features
unique coil springs that lower the vehicle by 0.6 inches while an increased
spring rate reduces the roll angle, providing flatter cornering and steering
response.
Updates also include specially tuned
shocks with internal rebound springs, unique solid stabilizer bars with
increased rigidity, and new jounce bumpers. Combined, the Apex Edition
suspension changes increase roll stiffness by 47 percent in the front and 33
percent in the rear. The 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition rides on 18-inch
flow-formed cast aluminum wheels developed to aid in brake cooling while
offering a mass reduction of 2.2 lbs per wheel. Chassis updates are rounded out
by bespoke electronic power steering (EPS) calibration.
All models are powered by a 2.0-liter
Dynamic Force Engine rated at 169 HP at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at
4,800 rpm. Most Apex Edition models will come equipped with the Dynamic Shift
CVT, with Toyota offering just 120 units with the 6-speed iMT manual. You’ll
recognize the 2021 Corolla Apex Edition thanks to its custom black body kit
complete with bronze accents, a front spoiler, fog light covers, side moldings
and rear diffuser. A rear trunk aero spoiler will be available as an option.
Customers can have this sporty model in three exterior colors: the exclusive
Cement with Black Sand Pearl roof; Super White with Black Sand Pearl roof; and
Black Sand Pearl.
Regardless of the color, all Apex Edition
models come with black mirror caps. Inside, the Corolla SE Apex Edition gains
premium fabric upholstery, while the XSE Apex Edition has a black
SofTex-trimmed fabric upholstery. The latter variant also adds heated front
seats, including an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar
support.