For the 2021 model year, Toyota puts the spotlight on fun in the Corolla Hatchback Lineup, with the new Special Edition, based on the SE Upgrade CVT grade, grabs attention with its Supersonic Red paint job, black-painted 18-in. alloy wheels and a bold body kit that beats the aftermarket in style and value. The body kit adds a sporty front splitter, side skirts, black rear roof spoiler, a rear bumper garnish and a unique Special Edition badge.

The aggressive body kit styling is well matched to the Corolla Hatchback’s design, which is anchored by a curvy, muscular physique accented by chiselled character lines and simple, condensed three-dimensional highlights. The Special Edition pushes the style meter to 11 and is not for people who want to blend into the crowd.

Slim, J-shaped Bi-Beam LED headlamps wrap deeply into the front fenders and give Corolla Hatchback a distinct expression. It’s functional, of course, with precise illumination. The all-LED taillamps feature a diffusing inner lens designed to highlight the Corolla Hatchback’s stout stance.

As on the 2020 versions, all 2021 Corolla Hatchback models come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assist technologies:

• 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)

Like all Corolla Hatchbacks, the Special Edition combines the athleticism of the robust TNGA-K platform, responsive multi-link rear suspension, and the 168-horsepower 2.0-litre Dynamic Force Engine. Combining high-revving energy with high efficiency, the 2.0-litre derives its gutsy personality and fuel-sipping behaviour from a combination of a high compression ratio (13:1); Toyota D-4S fuel injection combining 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 Dynamic Force 2.0-litre engine a maximum thermal efficiency of 40 per cent.

The Dynamic Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission) that is standard on the Special Edition includes simulated 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic steps, Sport Mode, and paddle shifters. Unique among transmissions of this type, the key to the Dynamic Shift CVT’s distinct performance feel is a gearset used as a launch gear for start-off acceleration, before seamlessly handing off to the CVT’s pulley system.

The standard multimedia continues to impress in Corolla Hatchback. All models are equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen, six speakers and are compatible with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. For SE Upgrade and above, including the Special Edition, standard Audio Plus adds Safety Connect (1-year trial), Remote Connect (1-year trial – remote engine start only available on automatic transmission models), Service Connect (10-year trial) and SiriusXM All Access satellite radio with a three-month trial.

Premium Audio with Remote, is available on XSE (with CVT), and adds embedded navigation, Destination Assist (1-year trial) and Remote connect (1-year trial).

Test Drives
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Please Note: The details of this article were accurate at the time it was written. Manufacturers may change the details of any vehicle’s specifications, at any time, without notice.