Following the launch of the hotly anticipated GR Corolla hatch in February, Toyota has taken performance to a whole new level with the arrival of the Morizo Edition. It’s limited to just 25 examples in Australia.
Adding a range of focused enhancements over the GR Corolla GTS, it’s designed to maximise precision handling and track-day performance. Changes include a 30Nm jump in torque to 400Nm from the 1.6-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine.
Power remains the same at 221kW, while engineers have recalibrated the close-ratio six-speed intelligent manual transmission, with altered gear ratios for the first and third gear, allowing for the engine power band to be used more efficiently.
The final gear ratio has also been configured to optimise drive torque. High-strength gear material has been adopted to improve durability, with the first, third, fourth, fifth and final drive gears gaining shock treatment to enhance shock torque strength.
The spring inside the synchroniser has also been strengthened in the name of improved shifting performance during sports driving. The changes mean fuel economy should sit around 8.6-litres/100km.
Monotube shock absorbers have also been adopted on the Morizo Edition, further improving roll rigidity and responsiveness of the MacPherson strut front and double-wishbone rear suspension.
Handling grip is enhanced with the fitment of sticky 245/40ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber, wrapped around 10-spoke, 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels. “TOYOTA GAZOO RACING” is engraved into the outer edge of the rim, with the “R” finished in red.
Structurely stronger than its GTS sibling, the limited edition model features two new braces inside the cabin to bolster structural reinforcement, with a suspension tower brace between the rear wheels joined by a new floor brace in place of the rear seats.
Some 30kg lighter, the Morizo Edition loses various damping and silencing material, as well as the rear wiper and its motor. Its roof is made from carbon fibre reinforced plastic, which also lowers the centre of gravity.
Other weight-saving measures include removing the steering wheel heater, parking sensors and wireless charger, and changing the dual-zone air conditioner to a single-zone unit. The eight-speaker JBL audio system has been changed to a two-speaker setup as well.
Inside, the Morizo Edition adds a number of race-inspired touches to assist in high-speed driving and cornering., including race bucket seats upholstered in Brin Naub perforated suede, featuring extra side and seat-base bolstering.
Suede has been applied to the steering wheel, manual parking brake and shift boot, with alumite red metal accents applied to the steering wheel centre marker and shifter. Red stitching also appears on the seats, steering wheel, shifter and parking brake.
Like the GTS, the Morizo Edition utilises an 8.0-inch touchscreen multimedia system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, paired with a colour head-up display and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Native sat-nav has been removed.
Toyota Connected Services is offered as standard, providing enhanced safety and convenience features, including being able to remotely check the status of the vehicle, and automatic communication with emergency services in the event of a collision or crash.
A comprehensive suite of active safety technologies are included, carrying over all the features of the GTS, with the exception of parking sensors. The Morizo Edition is available in Frosted White Pearl, Tarmac Black Metallic and Matte Steel.
Keen observers will also notice the front intercooler on the Morizo has been emblazoned with a ‘GR-FOUR’ emblem for a subtle but dynamic touch. It’s covered by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty (7-years on engine and driveline).
Capped-price servicing is offered for the first 3-years or 60,000km (whichever comes first). If you’re keen to jump in one, you’ll need to part with $77,800 plus on-roads. To find out more, contact your local Toyota dealer.
