New Toyota Corolla 2021 detailed: Apex Edition aims to keep up with Subaru WRX on the racetrack

It might not be the Corolla GR hot hatch everyone is waiting for, but Toyota has rolled out the track-focussed Apex Edition sedan to whet your appetite before the main meal.

The limited-edition Corolla is exclusive to North America though, with a Toyota Australia spokesperson confirming to CarsGuide the model is not currently on the local radar.

Toyota will build just 6000 units of the Apex Edition, split between the SE and XSE grades – the US’ mid- and top-tier non-hybrid variants respectively.

Tweaks on the Apex Edition include 0.6-inch lower suspension and a sports exhaust system to deliver “a message to driving enthusiasts looking for a head-turning, corner-carving affordable sport sedan”, according to Toyota.

In addition, spring rates have also been tweaked and solid stabiliser bars have been added in an effort to reduce roll, increase steering response and improve cornering ability.

Powering the Corolla Apex Edition though, is a carryover 2.0-litre engine that punches out 126kW/205Nm in the US, mated to either a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) or six-speed manual.

However, the latter configuration is limited to just 120 units in SE grade, but does come with rev-matching technology.

Aside from the “track-tuned chassis upgrades”, the Apex Edition wears a bespoke, bronze-accented bodykit consisting of a restyled front bumper, side skirts, rear diffuser and bootlid spoiler.

Filling out the wheelarches are 18-inch cast aluminium gloss-black wheels, while exterior colours are limited to three – grey, white or black.

Inside, the Apex Edition is fitted with an 8.0-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, six-speaker sound system and Bluetooth connectivity.