Toyota gives top Corolla a blower job

Newswheel staff :: 27 October 2005 :: Filed under Hatchback, Toyota, Toyota Corolla, Europe & UK

[Click on an image to view]

Corolla Compressor blows in

It’s been around since Moses built the Ark. They’ve made more of them than any other car in history. And the current model boasts a decent chassis and robust build. But let’s be honest. The Toyota Corolla has never, ever been a car to set your pants on fire. However, this is about to change; step forward the new Corolla Compressor.

Though not a power match for the similarly sized Alfa 147 GTA, Audi A3 3.2, BMW 130 M Sport or Renault Megane 225, the Corolla Compressor still packs a beefy 215 supercharged horses. This 1.8-litre hot-hatch will replace the outgoing, warmed-over 189bhp T Sport. Just 250 examples will be available in the UK.

With lowered suspension, up-rated springs, 215/45 tyres on 17-inch alloys, a roof spoiler, a rear air dam and twin tailpipes, the Compressor wears its 6.9sec 0-60 time and 143mph vmax on its sleeve. But even with a blower under the bonnet, that Corolla moniker simply isn’t sexy. Our guess is that owners will simply say they drive a Toyota [forget the Corolla bit] Compressor.  

The Compressor goes on sale in the UK next month for £19,995

Those Corolla Compressor pics in full: