Toyota introduces the 2021 Corolla Apex Edition, a limited-run model designed to inject thrilling performance and aggressive styling into the iconic Toyota Corolla lineup. For driving enthusiasts seeking an affordable sport sedan that commands attention and carves corners with precision, the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition delivers a unique and exhilarating driving experience. Based on the popular Corolla SE and XSE grades, this special edition model enhances the inherent sporty DNA of the Toyota Corolla, creating a truly dynamic and engaging vehicle.
Aggressive Design and Eye-Catching Styling of the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition
The Toyota Corolla Apex Edition immediately distinguishes itself with a low-slung, assertive stance. A custom body kit, finished in sporty black with striking bronze accents, amplifies the Corolla’s already sharp lines. This aerodynamic package includes a front spoiler, fog light covers, side moldings, and a rear diffuser, all contributing to enhanced high-speed stability and a more aggressive aesthetic for the Toyota Corolla. For those desiring an even bolder statement, a rear trunk aero spoiler is available as an optional addition, further emphasizing the sporty character of this special Toyota Corolla.
Track-Tuned Handling and Performance Upgrades for the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition
Beyond its visual appeal, the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition truly lives up to its name with significant enhancements to its handling dynamics. Toyota engineers meticulously tuned the suspension through rigorous testing at various tracks worldwide, including facilities in Japan, Arizona, and Texas. This extensive development process has resulted in a track-tuned chassis that provides a more connected and responsive driving experience for the Toyota Corolla.
Unique coil springs lower the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition by 0.6 inches, reducing body roll and promoting flatter cornering. The increased spring rate, coupled with specially tuned shocks featuring internal rebound springs, provides enhanced damping force, effectively controlling vertical and roll movements. Solid stabilizer bars with increased rigidity further minimize body roll and improve overall agility. New jounce bumpers ensure that the lowered ride height doesn’t compromise ride quality, maintaining a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort in the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition. Collectively, these suspension modifications result in a remarkable 47% increase in roll stiffness at the front and 33% at the rear, transforming the cornering capabilities of the Toyota Corolla.
The Toyota Corolla Apex Edition rides on unique 18-inch flow-formed cast aluminum wheels with a gloss black finish. These wheels are not only visually striking but also engineered to improve brake cooling and reduce unsprung weight by 2.2 lbs. per wheel, contributing to enhanced handling and responsiveness. Customers can choose between all-season tires or optional summer tires for maximum grip and performance. The electronic power steering (EPS) has been specifically tuned for the Apex Edition, providing a sportier, V-shaped build-up response that complements the suspension upgrades and enhances driver feedback in this special Toyota Corolla. Completing the performance enhancements is a specially developed catback exhaust system that delivers a throatier, more aggressive sound at startup and a bolder tone under full throttle, adding an auditory dimension to the sporty character of the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition. A unique 3.5-inch stainless steel exhaust tip further enhances the vehicle’s styling.
Interior Refinements and Feature Highlights of the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition
The bronze and black exterior color scheme of the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition is available in three striking choices: the exclusive Cement with Black Sand Pearl roof, Super White with Black Sand Pearl roof, and Black Sand Pearl. Black mirror caps are standard across all color options. The front fascia of the Toyota Corolla SE and XSE grades is further accentuated 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 Toyota Corolla SE Apex Edition, premium fabric upholstery provides a comfortable and sporty environment. The XSE Apex Edition elevates the interior with black SofTex®-trimmed fabric upholstery and adds heated front seats, including an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support for enhanced comfort and convenience in this special Toyota Corolla.
Dynamic Force Engine and Transmission Options for the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition
Powering the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition is the responsive 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine, standard in all Corolla SE and XSE grades. This engine delivers an impressive 169 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque, thanks to its high-compression Toyota D4-S fuel injection system, high-speed combustion, and advanced variable valve timing technologies. This engine not only provides spirited performance but also achieves excellent thermal efficiency.
The Toyota Corolla Apex Edition is offered with two transmission choices: the Dynamic Shift CVT (continuously variable transmission) or a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6 iMT). The CVT provides simulated 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic steps, Sport Mode, and paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience. For purists, the 6-speed iMT features downshift rev-matching control, making manual shifting smoother and more enjoyable in the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition. Fuel economy is also commendable, with EPA-estimated ratings of 30/38/33 MPG (city/highway/combined) for CVT models and 28/35/31 MPG for the 6-speed iMT version of the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition.
2021 Toyota Corolla Enhancements and Safety Features
Beyond the Apex Edition, the entire 2021 Toyota Corolla lineup receives upgrades, including standard Android Auto compatibility, joining existing Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration. SiriusXM with a 3-month All Access trial is also now included across all Corolla grades.
Toyota has further enhanced safety for the 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan, adding rear side airbags, bringing the total airbag count to 10. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitor is standard on XLE and XSE grades and optional on LE, LE Hybrid, and SE CVT models of the Toyota Corolla. Automatic Engine Shut-Off is now standard on all 2021 Toyota Corolla models, adding an extra layer of safety and convenience. The 2021 Toyota Corolla LE grade also offers a new Convenience Package with Blind Spot Monitor, Smart Key system, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Technology and Convenience Features in the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition
The Toyota Corolla Apex Edition comes well-equipped with technology and convenience features. Smart Key with Push Button Start is standard, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is standard on the XSE Apex Edition and optional for the SE Apex Edition with CVT.
Both SE and XSE Apex Editions feature a standard audio multimedia system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, six speakers, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa compatibility, USB ports, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. The XSE Apex Edition adds Audio Plus with Service Connect and Remote Connect, optional on the SE CVT. A Premium Audio package is available for both grades, upgrading to a JBL 9-speaker, 800-watt system with Dynamic Voice Recognition, Dynamic Navigation, and Destination Assist Connect in the Toyota Corolla Apex Edition.
Corolla Nightshade Edition Returns for 2021
The visually striking Corolla Nightshade Edition also returns for 2021 on the SE grade. With blacked-out styling elements and 18-inch alloy wheels, the Nightshade Edition offers another compelling and stylish option within the Toyota Corolla lineup.
Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 Standard Across All 2021 Corolla Models
All 2021 Toyota Corolla models, including the Apex Edition, come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0), a suite of driver-assist technologies. This includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (CVT only), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beams, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist, providing comprehensive safety and peace of mind in every Toyota Corolla.
Affordable Sporty Style: Toyota Corolla Apex Edition Pricing
The Toyota Corolla Apex Edition delivers its enhanced styling and performance at an accessible price point. The Corolla Apex SE with CVT starts at an MSRP of $25,070, while the manual transmission version is priced at $25,460. The Corolla Apex XSE has a starting MSRP of $28,210. The optional black rear aero spoiler is available for $375, and performance summer tires are a no-cost option, allowing buyers to further customize their Toyota Corolla Apex Edition.
For more information on the 2021 Toyota Corolla and Toyota Corolla Hybrid, please visit the Toyota Pressroom.
