Corolla XRS

[ROKnight]

Anybody heard about the Corolla XRS that has been rumored to be appearing around May of 05? It will now have the celica engine. Specs are slightly lower at 170hp... Styling will stay along the lines of the 2003+ corollas.
"The new Corolla XRS will be powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 170 horsepower and 127 pounds of torque. The engine will deliver a broader and stronger mid-range torque than the previous versions of the 2ZZ engine. And, it will feature a VVTL-i variable valve timing and lift system that produces a supercharged-like rise in power from 6,000 to 7,800 RPM.
The XRS features a sport-tuned suspension that includes a front connecting rod damper developed by Yamaha. The damper is mounted between the shock towers to produce improved ride and handling without compromising NVH. In addition to the performance damper, the XRS features increased rate coil springs and shocks on all four wheels for improved roll and pitch, and a ride height that is lower by a full half-inch.
The suspension stands on larger 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels and Michelin performance tires, an upgrade from the standard 15-inch wheels on all other Corolla grades. It is complemented by a steering system that features a more rigid steering column, producing less vibration and improved response. A power steering rack specially developed for the XRS allows for better steering feedback.
The improved performance of the Corolla XRS is accompanied by performance-themed convenience enhancements including sport seats, colour-keyed bezel surrounding the grille, silver-colored center cluster and switch plates, a leather-like shift boot with a leather shift knob, and unique badging.
It will reach dealerships on May 1st of next year."

What are your thoughts? Personally, I think this boost is long overdue for the popular but dull performanced corolla. ^__^

Jae Hoon

[Mellason]

What are your thoughts? Personally, I think this boost is long overdue for the popular but dull performanced corolla. ^__^

Jae Hoon[/quote]

Sounds like a nice car. Would this corolla be selling in the U.S? Secondly please take back the above statment . I can tell you knows nothing about corollas or you only know about the watered down corollas sold ing the U.S.
Did you know the Levin/Truenos and Ceres/Marinos are corolla but just different versions. Alittle History on performance corollas, Too much to mention but here is a few
ae92 gt-z 145hp@6400 and 19.0@4400 Torque niceshape, Supercharged, 14"rims

ae101 gt-apex 4age 20valves, 160@7400hp and 16.5@6200 torque, coupe, alloy 14"rims, 4 ABS,

ae101 gt-z 4agze, 170@6500hp and 21.0@4400 torque,Supercharged, alloy 15"rim,4 abs, super strut suspension, twin piston brakes, intercooler, leather Momo shift and steering wheel.

ae111 bz-g 4age 20 valve black top 165@7800hp , 16.5@5600 torque, 14" alloy rims, 4 ABS, Air bags, super strut suspension, twin piston brakes,

ae111 br-z 4age 20 valve black top 165@7800hp 15"alloy rims, 4 ABS, Air bags, super strut suspension, twin piston brakes and 6 speed gear box.
Finally all these cars are fast and handles great. The 4age/4agze is the recorgnized racing engine out of japan, most strongest and push the highest hp and torque for any 1600 engine stock. If you ever drove one of these cars you would not be buying civics.
Stock for Stock which Honda 1600 can out perform?

[ROKnight]

I'll stand by my statement only because I am in the US. I am quite aware of the incredible 'corollas' available around the world and the generations of the ae's. However, this 180hp XRS kicks the s*%( out of the 125hp/125tq and 130hp/125tq crap we've been getting for the last 15+ years in the US.

Jae Hoon