The Toyota GR Corolla has achieved cult status, thanks to its powerful three-cylinder engine with 300 HP and sporty tuning of chassis and steering. However, this charismatic engine might not last forever. With the premiere of a new Corolla concept in Japan, a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine appeared, reportedly producing around 400 HP.
Hiroki Nakajima, Toyota's technical director, hinted to MotorTrend that this new engine could be the basis for future high-performance models. Although he has not yet directly confirmed its use in the next GR Corolla generation, this decision would be quite justified, especially considering that the technical capabilities of the three-cylinder engine are already at their limit.
The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine is characterized by a simpler construction, higher power reserves, and improved reliability. Rumors suggest it bears the internal designation G20E. Toyota engineers even said the engine could develop up to 600 HP with a more powerful turbocharger. Hence, it was nicknamed “little 2JZ,” a nod to the legendary 3.0-liter Toyota engine.
If the new GR Corolla actually develops 400 HP, it surpasses competitors like the Honda Civic Type R (315 HP) and the Volkswagen Golf R (328 HP), which would give Toyota's sports car development division an advantage in the hot hatch arms race.
Source: MotorTrend
