Toyota is revving up excitement in the compact sedan segment with the introduction of the 2021 Corolla Apex Edition. For driving enthusiasts seeking a vehicle that combines eye-catching aesthetics with enhanced handling, the Corolla Apex Edition emerges as a compelling option. This limited-edition model, based on the popular Corolla SE and XSE grades, injects a dose of sporty DNA into the Corolla lineup, promising a more engaging and dynamic driving experience. With only 6,000 units slated for production, the Apex Edition is poised to be a sought-after variant for those wanting a Corolla with a sharper edge.
The Apex Edition distinguishes itself through a series of performance and visual enhancements, starting with a track-tuned chassis. Toyota engineers have meticulously refined the suspension to deliver tighter handling and more responsive cornering. Unique shocks, featuring internal rebound springs, are a key component of this upgraded system. These specialized shocks, combined with unique coil springs that lower the car by 0.6 inches, work in concert to reduce body roll, resulting in flatter cornering and more precise steering response. Solid stabilizer bars with increased rigidity further contribute to minimizing vehicle roll, enhancing overall agility. Even the jounce bumpers have been carefully considered to ensure that the lowered ride height doesn’t compromise ride quality, maintaining a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort. In figures, these suspension modifications result in a significant 47% increase in roll stiffness at the front and 33% at the rear, translating to a noticeably more planted and controlled feel on the road.
Complementing the suspension upgrades are the 18-inch flow-formed cast aluminum wheels, finished in gloss black. Beyond their visual appeal, these wheels are engineered to improve brake cooling and reduce unsprung weight by 2.2 lbs per wheel. This reduction in rotational inertia further enhances handling and responsiveness. Buyers have the choice of pairing these wheels with either all-season tires for year-round practicality or optional summer tires for maximum grip and performance in warmer conditions. The summer tires are designed to elevate lateral grip, steering precision, and yaw response, unlocking the full potential of the Apex Edition’s chassis. To further refine the driving experience, the electronic power steering (EPS) has been specifically tuned for the Apex Edition. This bespoke EPS tuning delivers a sportier steering feel with a v-shaped build-up response, providing more feedback and engagement for the driver.
Under the hood, the Corolla Apex Edition is powered by Toyota’s 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine, a powerplant known for its blend of performance and efficiency. This engine, standard in all Corolla SE and XSE grades, produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque. Key technologies contributing to its performance include a high-compression (13:1) Toyota D4-S fuel injection system, combining direct injection and secondary port injectors, and intelligent variable valve-timing (VVT-iE and VVT-i). For the majority of Apex Editions, power is delivered through Toyota’s Dynamic Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission). This advanced CVT simulates 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic steps and features Sport Mode and paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience. A unique gearset is used as a “first” gear for enhanced start-off acceleration before seamlessly transitioning to the CVT’s pulley system. However, for driving purists who prefer manual control, Toyota is offering a limited run of just 120 Apex Editions based on the SE grade equipped with a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6 iMT). This transmission features downshift rev-matching control, automatically adjusting engine revs during gear changes for smoother shifts, making even novice manual drivers feel proficient.
Visually, the Corolla Apex Edition makes a bold statement. A sporty, aerodynamic black body kit with striking bronze accents immediately sets it apart. This kit includes a front spoiler, fog light covers, side moldings, and a rear diffuser, all designed to enhance high-speed stability. An optional rear trunk aero spoiler is available for those wanting an even more aggressive look. The bronze and black color scheme extends to the exterior paint options, which include an exclusive Cement with Black Sand Pearl roof, Super White with Black Sand Pearl roof, and Black Sand Pearl. Regardless of the chosen color, all Apex Editions feature black mirror caps. The front fascia is further enhanced by triple J-shaped clearance lamps with LED lights and LED turn signals, while LED taillamps with smoked outer lenses create a distinctive rear lighting signature.
Inside, the Corolla Apex Edition offers a sporty yet comfortable cabin. The SE Apex Edition features premium fabric upholstery, while the XSE Apex Edition steps up to black SofTex®-trimmed fabric upholstery. The XSE Apex Edition also includes heated front seats and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support for added comfort on longer drives. Both SE and XSE Apex Editions come standard with Smart Key with Push Button Start. The XSE Apex Edition further adds Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert as standard, while it is optional for the SE Apex Edition with CVT.
The standard audio multimedia system in both Apex Edition grades features an 8-inch touch-screen display, six speakers, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, USB media and charge ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and SiriusXM with a 3-month All Access trial. The XSE Apex Edition upgrades to Audio Plus, which is optional on the SE grade with CVT, adding Service Connect and Remote Connect. A Premium Audio package is available for both grades, boasting a JBL 9-speaker, 800-watt system, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Dynamic Navigation, Dynamic Points of Interest Search, and Destination Assist Connect.
Beyond the Apex Edition, all 2021 Toyota Corolla models receive enhancements. Android Auto compatibility is now standard across the entire lineup, joining the existing Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration. Safety is also enhanced with the addition of rear side airbags, bringing the total airbag count to 10. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitor is now standard on XLE and XSE grades and optional on LE, LE Hybrid, and SE grades with CVT. Automatic Engine Shut-Off is also a new standard feature for all 2021 Corollas.
For those seeking a different kind of visual flair, the Corolla Nightshade Edition returns for 2021 on the SE grade. This edition emphasizes a blacked-out aesthetic with black 18-inch alloy wheels and black accents on the bumpers, grille surround, mirror caps, and other exterior elements.
Safety remains a top priority for Toyota, and all 2021 Corolla models, including the Apex Edition, come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0). This suite of driver-assist technologies 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, and Road Sign Assist.
The 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition offers a compelling blend of sporty styling and enhanced performance at an accessible price point. Starting at $25,070 for the Apex SE with CVT, it represents a worthwhile upgrade for Corolla buyers seeking a more dynamic and visually striking sedan. With its limited production run and unique features, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition is poised to capture the attention of driving enthusiasts and solidify the Corolla’s position as a versatile and appealing option in the compact car market.
