@@roostertailspice2482 look at this guy, picking random fights for not putting periods and capitalising letters in yt comments, you don't actually look smart by doing perfect grammar in yt comments bud
For us older fellas who grew up rowing through the gears in our SE-Rs and Eclipse GSXs, this is a nice throwback to something that, while it isn't packing 250+ hp, it's got enough to put a smile on your face without getting to those kind of speeds which end up with one along the side of the road explaining "why no officer, I don't know why you pulled me over." I've owned 400+ hp Camaros and modified S2000s, Spyders and Abarths. A slower car going fast is definitely more fun than a ridiculously fast car going slow. Think about it...short of foolish street racing, how often do you find yourself approaching triple digits? In addition, I don't want Lexus LS sound proofing. I want to hear the fun. If the suspension noise becomes an issue, I turn up the radio. I think this would be fantastic daily driver if you live in an area where the roads aren't like an unfinished jigsaw puzzle, for example, down in south Florida where the $$$ flow and residents don't put up with that pothole shit.
Admittedly, I was a hater when I first saw these...but the more I hear and read, the more I realize it’s a cool pseudo-throwback budget/performance/engaging/fun/all motor-fwd/economical car. Cool!!
@@joshuabenjaminscott2365 It's not luxury car but cmon, it should be a little more comfortable and with a better sound isolation or any sound isolation tbh.
@@janjohnny4945 The funny thing is that all that usually separates a luxury car from an economy car in the NVH department isn't anything fancy like rubber isolated subframes or anything, but simply using some cheap foam insulation and carpeted wheel wells. I have no idea why this isn't done on economy vehicles as well considering how cheap it is, but then again often on an economy car they'll put a 25 cent incandescent bulb instead of a 50 cent LED, when it would have almost no impact on the bottom line, other than to perhaps justify why they are charging more for the luxury version on the same platform.
That’s the biggest trade-off of having bigger wheels and low profile tires. That, and the fact that their tread life is terrible and and the tire and wheel tend to get damaged by even the mildest pothole. I have no idea why they put 40-series tires on a Corolla. Totally pointless.
I bought the '22 6 speed. Very stoked on it. Simple, fun and nobody in the back seat to complain about the 'suspension'. BC has greats roads for this car.
@@SWEETVENOM100 i have the 22 apex to be honest the road does get really bumpy with this car which sucks on the long run lol i do doordash and lyft so it does get tiring, but i hope they make the corolla gr better so i can trade it in for that one
Wow the ride seems so bad, like they just put non-progressive lowering springs on stock dampers. There's no way it's racecar stiff and well setup track cars ride better than this lol.
I can confirm. Had a 2019 Corolla Hatch (EU spec) for a few months, and the road noise was atrocious for this class of car. Even the 2018 VW Polo that I had for a few months before had better sound proofing.
Toyota getting people from A to b until the end of time hahah this isn’t horrible but the hatch is cooler but I rather have the Mazda3 with the 2.5l engine over the corolla
Funny enough the Mazda is more Premium, is cheaper than this car, has more HP/Torque just might not be as “sporty” but Mazda is no slouch to sport or good handling especially with G-Vectoring.
Kevin A it’s not especially not used as Toyota’s don’t depreciate much at all And MAZDA in the USA does depreciate a lot I almost bought a mazda 3 for my brother when he moves here the car only had 60k miles was from 2016 and for 8000 with a clean title and no accidents it was the base model but still
@@TrumpsaTerroristChangeMyMind they do lose value fast. I sold my 2018 to carvana with low miles due to work from home. Got almost all my money back from buying new but I saw the writing on the wall
I don't even know how I ended up watching this lol. But since I'm here, I'm sure the Corolla is a great car but man the constant droning from the CVT...I'd take the Civic 1.5T over this if I was looking for something like this...with a 6 speed.
Richard Favreau haha maybe your ears are tuning it out. It’s just the constant buzzing of the engine. I prefer a conventional auto or a manual but CVT’s are efficient. The Civic CVT works a little better because the turbo has more torque in the lower and mid range so I think it’s a bit less buzzy. But honestly I’m not even considering either car, just watched the video because it came after another one I was interested in.
Yeah but the civic reliability is embarrassing with current generation. With engines that get gasoline mixed in the oil, faulty fuel injectors, faulty fuel pumps, manual transmission problems,, and ac compressors going bad at 20k I will still choose the lower powered car that isnt gonna break.
@@fj60driver I never said anything about reliability. Your comment literally has nothing to do with what I said, which was talking about PERFORMANCE, not reliability.
@@MrBobbyBrown2006 you said something about corolla was embarrassing I said something embarrassing about the civic. A car isn't just about performance i even acknowledge that corolla had less performance
@@fj60driver You said something just to say something. My comment was inline with what was said in the video. Again, this isn't about reliability. I worked for Toyota for 2 years and own a Toyota myself currently. You don't need to defend the Toyota brand. Not everything they do is rainbows and a magical wonderland. We are allowed to want more from a brand.
@@MrBobbyBrown2006 i want the civic to be a more reliable car. Isnt the point of youtube comments just to say something? Why you so triggered? I never said Toyota was perfect
I think you should just buy a mazda3 over this....similar price, more power, nicer interior, AUTOMATIC transmission, quite sporty out on the road, all while having similar reliability. Seems like the right pick
I’ll just wait for the Mazda 3 turbo sedan. Better handling vehicle and the waaaaay better looking interior. Thank you for not selling me on this car. 👍🏽
Richard Favreau NO. Mazda does not manufacture engines in Mexico. They are all built in Japan. Wow, right in the nuts bro, maybe educate yourself before you spread Idiocy. I hate stupidity
@Richard Favreau Mazda feels cheap inside? in what universe. Also The Corolla has poor grip. You understeer like mad in this car. Mazda's interiors are a cut above the mainstream cars.
I sincerely hope Toyota brings back their VVTL in some form. It was an excellent way to make impressive numbers from a small displacement engine. This system combined with the new valvematic vvt would make an engine with outstanding efficiency, and satisfying power while keeping it reliable by eliminating the need for engineering forced induction infrastructure that can cause a need for more frequent oil changes, heavier oil weight which increases drag on the engine, harming efficiency, and worst of all jeopardizing reliability by exposing the oil to more extreme temperatures. I am growing frustrated with forced induction engines that sacrifice ease of ownership in exchange for more power, when a high revving NA engine with variable lift can accomplish the same level of top end, sans the torque.
Had a 2020 se, white nightshade edition. It was totalled. Great car but I feel like it was cheaply made. Now, glory to God, I have the Honda Civic ex hatchback.
The acoustic isolation of this version lets the noise of the engine running in previous versions pass through it was better. Even more is still a great car a good option to buy
This reminds me of my '04 RSX (which I still drive), but it's faster, better looking and more functional. Seems to ride just as harshly, which I"m tired of and seems to have the same amount of road noise.
The gauge clusters on all corolla are essentially the same, except for the xse. The xse comes with a digital cluster and is the only one substantially different.
It is a CVT but it's definitely not Junky. Yes, it revs like crazy with your foot in it. This transmission has proven itself reliable. The shit CVT the Nissan brand uses breaks by 50k miles.
@@kevina2052 your 2018 having 80k miles doesn't prove reliability just proves that you drove a lot on the highway. It probably will be pretty reliable, but I am just saying
Have had a couple as rentals (regular corollas). The CVT first gear is cool and feels better off the line, but I did notice a bit of a "bump" when it switches from first to the CVT gear. Engine actually felt great and I reckon it would be a good daily with the manual (rev hang not included...).
Richard Favreau Yeah it's not a deal breaker provided they have fixed the reliability issues. I actually prefer it to a regular cvt, but the change between was noticeable and wasn't always the smoothest. Still better than most dct gearboxes in terms of smoothness.
120 manuals? Are they trying to wind us up? BTW they should make a few Corollas with the Camry's 2.5 for those who want more hp without the complications of a turbo.
They had actually performance corollas up until 2010. 05-06 had the XRS with the 1.8L 2ZZ out of the Lotus Elise, and the 09-10 had the camry engine. The 05 was an insane sleeper of a car, and the 09-10 was also decent, both having manual transmissions. Idk why toyota doesnt make things like that anymore
@@SychicGamer simple. They dont sell. even typical corollas with manual transmissions make up 2% of overall sold. If they do end up making a GR version ill be at the dealership so fast to give them my money though
@@SychicGamer I remember those Corollas as well as the Matrix and Vibe that came with the same powertrain upgrade. A Corolla hatch or better still, a Corolla wagon with the Camry's 203 hp engine and a 6 speed manual would be a sensible option at a very reasonable price point. Toyota has certainly upgraded the handling traits of their TNGA chassis and is slowly but surely shaking off their old image. They say a high hp, AWD, turbo Corolla hatch is on the way but once again, Toyota buyers with a 15-20 year vehicle lifespan in mind may not find a turbo very appealing. For the record, I drive a 15 year old, manual Pontiac Vibe which I bought new.
Looks just like my 20 LE on the inside. But outside it's much sharper with the useless spoiler and wheels that don't look like they fit on a Corolla. Bit faster yeah but after I just sold my mustang GT for this 20 LE I don't think most people care whether it's the 2.0 or the 1.8. Either way, you're flooring it in a CVT... Thankfully it's a reliable CVT! But the 2.0's CVT is still new, I suppose, with that physical first gear so who knows how well it'll stand the test of time. But at 4:30 I really like that pickup! Best part about Topher's reviews it that he jams on each car (as you should! it's not a sports car!) so you can see the lifestyle of owning this car. Wish this review, and all 2020+ Corolla reviews, dived into the adaptive cruise control and lane keep being available in all trims. At 11:50 Topher gets into it very shortly but it's just so good when you drive it you won't want to return to a car without it.
wow, it seems like there's a real demand for "sporty" cars right now which would explain why so many manufacturers are making sporty trims of their cars, but why don't they just make actual sports cars instead of making their economy cars with sporty features but no real performance?
I rented a 2020 corola base in denver this past weekend and that thing is LOUD. The throttle response was non existent. The audio system is fine in the toyota cars though. Definitely better than all the hondas I have been in. But be ready to hear a lot of road noise in a corolla.
I just can't take this car seriously. It has a body kit, huge wheels and a rear spoiler but still has a CVT and the exact same power output as any other Corolla. The styling looks ridiculous for what kind of car it is.
It's clear Toyota developed the suspension tuning for this thing on a well maintained racetrack, never taking it on public roads..or even their proving grounds. May be just me, but all the visual stuff and rock hard suspension is pointless without a HP/Tq bump...especially if most are going to be cvt.
Hard to imagine someone picking this car over something like a Mazda 3 which could be bought for cheaper, or just a bit more expensive for a manual version of the 3. There’s also the SI. If you’re wanting an N/A car, I think you’re better off getting an older SI with a K20 which despite being 2 generations older, would blow the doors off this thing and have the same if not better reliability. Reading the marketing material on Toyota’s website for the Corolla Apex Edition provided a good laugh. “And inside, it’s driver-focused cockpit...” It’s basically the same as the base model which has no ounce of driver-focused design to begin with. A subtle indication you’re basically getting ripped off buying this car if you ask me.
Immortalkalashnikov Not any more, if you research Mazda reliability, they’re actually more reliable than Honda and Toyota. It’s a shame those company cut manufacturing costs by going with the CVT. Sad really
Just bring back the og apex corolla if you want car enthusiasts back to your car scene. I'd go focus se sedan before a corolla again. I wasted my money on the xsp 2015 corolla and never again. I traded it for a focus se hatch and had so much fun driving that around.
Great video, as always. but the car is disappointing compared to the competition from Honda and Mazda, especially with the turbo Mazda3 coming out next year. I for sure wouldn't spend my money on one of these.
Toyota making an admirable attempt to offer an alternative to the civic-Si...but without a turbo engine and chassis that wasn't thrown together, I don't see many people opting for this one. There is also the new Kia Forte GT, Elantra Sport, Mazda 3 turbo is coming, so there really isn't enough here to entice that crowd to make the switch.
I own an XSE and the roads here in California are just as bad as Michigan. It literally glides right over the nasty pavement here with very little noise/shudder heard or felt in the cabin. This thing would be absolutely punishing to drive and I would hate to hear what the Apex would sound like after owning it for a few years. Ouch....
Toyota must have been thinking about the hype of the original JDM 1986 Toyota Sprinter Trueno GT-Apex, which is why the white and black paint on this Corolla looks so familiar AND has the iconic "Apex" title as a possible successor/descendent to the original. But with only 169 HP and with lots of possible tuning restrictions for the engine, $25k just won't do. It can easily be beaten and preferred over by cars such as the Civic Si or a WRX for example, when you think about the price range. Toyota tried to persuade customers that the reason the new Supra had even fake vents (that were removable in the first place, as confirmed by Toyota themselves) was to make it easier for aftermarket companies to do modifications to the car and whatsoever. But if I'll believe it when I see it that it too was Toyota's "intention" to make the car as modifiable as the new Supra, as Toyota claims. In a few years to a decade and a half, this car better be tuned and seen drifting at a track without having some power problems, whatsoever.
It's just a Corolla GR sport which is part of our nations standard line up. we only get 5dr hatch as saloon cars do not sell here plus it's two litre hybrid 184hp
I’m so sad that I had to exchange my se nightshade it looks like it had the apex suspension of some sort. No other SE or XSE rides like it. Never drove an apex unfortunately but just based on this video I feel like I’m right.
Y’all have got to stop asking for manuals in these economy cars designed for lower income families or first car for more well off families. The accelerations were all painfully slow. Seeing that needle not move at all was painful. Idk why people think a car with 169 hp at redline needs a manual. Y’all are bugginnggggggg
Sounds like a tool box over bumps! NA motors in Corollas last or current gen, turn into fuel thirsty beasts once hit the elevation or sub-zero temps, defeating it’s purpose of economy vehicle. Speaking from first hand experience. It is severely underpowered. It’s a flat surface, city crowler at best with ridiculous plastic bits that throw an unnecessary statement this car can’t back up. Great vid though as always!
Toyota should make corolla true to its DNA which is comfortable, reliable, fuel efficient, value oriented point A. To B transportation. Sporty is not its attribute and its pretentious to be .honest. Corolla is a legend and a global sales leader because it is a sensible car - sporty cars do not make it the global sales leader chart.
I think one of my favourite things about Toyota has always been that their standard audio systems don’t suck like every other manufacturer
True i just bought a 2017 lexus and couldnt believe how bad the audio system is compared to my 2008 corolla that i sold 😅
Best car to deliver tofu in.
today's ae86 is the brz but nice try nonetheless
@@yuropean_eunion2133 Do you even know how to spell, capitalize letters, and use periods?
@@roostertailspice2482 Who tf cares, its CZcams comments
@@roostertailspice2482 look at this guy, picking random fights for not putting periods and capitalising letters in yt comments, you don't actually look smart by doing perfect grammar in yt comments bud
The new car smell might get picked up in the tofu though 😂😂
For us older fellas who grew up rowing through the gears in our SE-Rs and Eclipse GSXs, this is a nice throwback to something that, while it isn't packing 250+ hp, it's got enough to put a smile on your face without getting to those kind of speeds which end up with one along the side of the road explaining "why no officer, I don't know why you pulled me over." I've owned 400+ hp Camaros and modified S2000s, Spyders and Abarths. A slower car going fast is definitely more fun than a ridiculously fast car going slow. Think about it...short of foolish street racing, how often do you find yourself approaching triple digits? In addition, I don't want Lexus LS sound proofing. I want to hear the fun. If the suspension noise becomes an issue, I turn up the radio. I think this would be fantastic daily driver if you live in an area where the roads aren't like an unfinished jigsaw puzzle, for example, down in south Florida where the $$$ flow and residents don't put up with that pothole shit.
Admittedly, I was a hater when I first saw these...but the more I hear and read, the more I realize it’s a cool pseudo-throwback budget/performance/engaging/fun/all motor-fwd/economical car. Cool!!
Fwd crap
oof that sound of hitting potholes and bumps is a deal-breaker. sounds like it's exploding each time.
Agreed. It sounds painful. Especially the first one. Ouch!
I'm used to it. It's not a luxury car.
@@joshuabenjaminscott2365 It's not luxury car but cmon, it should be a little more comfortable and with a better sound isolation or any sound isolation tbh.
@@janjohnny4945 The funny thing is that all that usually separates a luxury car from an economy car in the NVH department isn't anything fancy like rubber isolated subframes or anything, but simply using some cheap foam insulation and carpeted wheel wells. I have no idea why this isn't done on economy vehicles as well considering how cheap it is, but then again often on an economy car they'll put a 25 cent incandescent bulb instead of a 50 cent LED, when it would have almost no impact on the bottom line, other than to perhaps justify why they are charging more for the luxury version on the same platform.
That’s the biggest trade-off of having bigger wheels and low profile tires. That, and the fact that their tread life is terrible and and the tire and wheel tend to get damaged by even the mildest pothole. I have no idea why they put 40-series tires on a Corolla. Totally pointless.
I bought the '22 6 speed. Very stoked on it. Simple, fun and nobody in the back seat to complain about the 'suspension'. BC has greats roads for this car.
Is the suspension really as bad as everyone says?
Also, BC as in BC,Canada?
Give me your mini review on your experience
@@SWEETVENOM100 i have the 22 apex to be honest the road does get really bumpy with this car which sucks on the long run lol i do doordash and lyft so it does get tiring, but i hope they make the corolla gr better so i can trade it in for that one
How has the 22 been? I won’t be in the market for a new car until October so I’m debating on getting a 22 or just waiting for the 23 at that point
Wow the ride seems so bad, like they just put non-progressive lowering springs on stock dampers. There's no way it's racecar stiff and well setup track cars ride better than this lol.
@kkthxk It's like being in a mother fuckin log wagon!
they modified the suspension wayyy tooo stiff. It’s absolutely horrific
I had it for one day and took it back. My ass was hurting after driving this damn car. It looks nice though🤷🏽♀️
I don’t get the point of this. If someone is looking for an enthusiast sedan why wouldn’t they get a civic sport/Si?
WRX maybe?
They could be looking for something smaller and want it for a cheaper price.
cause a corolla is literally indestructible, not to say that the civic isn't but the corolla is just a bit more reliable
@N0RT2G0RD4U si is 30k and this is 26 where u been man 😂
Zuperman yea. Just really low maintenance cars and Toyota’s are bulletproof
I like the Apex edition, but what the heck! Only 120 manuals being made?!
Take your 86 and go snag one
I'm glad they made this, but I can't think of a modern car that was louder over bumps and rough pavement than this one... man. Wow.
Brah it’s just a corolla with cheap body kit minus the suspension
chicago2370 this corolla is better built then a lot of older higher model cars. The corolla name plate means nothing this isn’t the 1990 anymore
I can confirm. Had a 2019 Corolla Hatch (EU spec) for a few months, and the road noise was atrocious for this class of car. Even the 2018 VW Polo that I had for a few months before had better sound proofing.
Are these versions made in Japan?
Toyota getting people from A to b until the end of time hahah this isn’t horrible but the hatch is cooler but I rather have the Mazda3 with the 2.5l engine over the corolla
Funny enough the Mazda is more Premium, is cheaper than this car, has more HP/Torque just might not be as “sporty” but Mazda is no slouch to sport or good handling especially with G-Vectoring.
@@ZambonieDude cough cough mazda mx5 cough cough
@@ZambonieDude The Mazda is more expensive.. what are you taking about?
Kevin A it’s not especially not used as Toyota’s don’t depreciate much at all
And MAZDA in the USA does depreciate a lot
I almost bought a mazda 3 for my brother when he moves here the car only had 60k miles was from 2016 and for 8000 with a clean title and no accidents it was the base model but still
@@TrumpsaTerroristChangeMyMind they do lose value fast. I sold my 2018 to carvana with low miles due to work from home. Got almost all my money back from buying new but I saw the writing on the wall
You’ll be finding the Apexes of the potholes in the Midwest with this Corolla 😄
The corolla interior looks like the 60k m2 from yesterday minus the leather seating 😂
I don't even know how I ended up watching this lol. But since I'm here, I'm sure the Corolla is a great car but man the constant droning from the CVT...I'd take the Civic 1.5T over this if I was looking for something like this...with a 6 speed.
I own the 2020 Corolla Hatchback with the same engine. This apex is a way worse buy in my opinion.
M Holmes I haven’t driven this but I have a 2018 Hatch Sport with 1.5 and the 6 speed. Definitely a fun car for the money.
Richard Favreau haha maybe your ears are tuning it out. It’s just the constant buzzing of the engine. I prefer a conventional auto or a manual but CVT’s are efficient. The Civic CVT works a little better because the turbo has more torque in the lower and mid range so I think it’s a bit less buzzy. But honestly I’m not even considering either car, just watched the video because it came after another one I was interested in.
These have a manual option you know
@@mholmes9262 i own the civic 1.5t with cvt, there is a drone that is definitely livable, you don't want to put an aftermarket exhaust on it IMO
Toyota needs to up their game. The Corolla performance is embarrassing vs the Civic.
Yeah but the civic reliability is embarrassing with current generation. With engines that get gasoline mixed in the oil, faulty fuel injectors, faulty fuel pumps, manual transmission problems,, and ac compressors going bad at 20k I will still choose the lower powered car that isnt gonna break.
@@fj60driver I never said anything about reliability. Your comment literally has nothing to do with what I said, which was talking about PERFORMANCE, not reliability.
@@MrBobbyBrown2006 you said something about corolla was embarrassing I said something embarrassing about the civic. A car isn't just about performance i even acknowledge that corolla had less performance
@@fj60driver You said something just to say something. My comment was inline with what was said in the video. Again, this isn't about reliability. I worked for Toyota for 2 years and own a Toyota myself currently. You don't need to defend the Toyota brand. Not everything they do is rainbows and a magical wonderland. We are allowed to want more from a brand.
@@MrBobbyBrown2006 i want the civic to be a more reliable car. Isnt the point of youtube comments just to say something? Why you so triggered? I never said Toyota was perfect
can’t wait till you get the 2020 corolla hatch (6 speed) or the gr yaris that’s coming out
No GR yaris for North America. People are speculating a GR Corolla.
Kyle Graf i would be siked for a GR Corolla
@@ryannitoi2993 I need a GR Corolla Hatchback. Hope the mileage is not that bad.
Just bought the SE it’s really nice and pretty fun
I will be waiting for the 6MT review from you! Love your vids man!
And Hyundai/Kia just dropped the K5 Gt with nearly 300 hp for almost the same price. JDM is on the decline....
I think you should just buy a mazda3 over this....similar price, more power, nicer interior, AUTOMATIC transmission, quite sporty out on the road, all while having similar reliability. Seems like the right pick
R Jasp reliability no
Your content is amazing, keep up the great work!
HE DOES A GOOD JOB EXPLAINING THE CAR👍
Dude said (@2:59): I ain't getting in that back seat...
Yeah he usually gets in there but not this time lol
Wait that’s what she said
I’ll just wait for the Mazda 3 turbo sedan. Better handling vehicle and the waaaaay better looking interior. Thank you for not selling me on this car. 👍🏽
Richard Favreau NO. Mazda does not manufacture engines in Mexico. They are all built in Japan. Wow, right in the nuts bro, maybe educate yourself before you spread Idiocy. I hate stupidity
Richard Favreau go drive a Mazda Lady, Toyota can’t hold Mazda’s balls when it comes to performance
Richard Favreau no. They dont
Richard Favreau I’m not gonna entertain your stupidity. You said Mazda engines are made cheaply in Mexico. Well..... that’s just not true at all
@Richard Favreau Mazda feels cheap inside? in what universe. Also The Corolla has poor grip. You understeer like mad in this car. Mazda's interiors are a cut above the mainstream cars.
I think this car is going to my list for when I buy a car
FORTE GT! YOU CANNOT IGNORE THE NEW CIVIC OF THE 90s OF THE 20s.
Man, I was wishing Toyota to give him the manual version ahhhh
it does come with manual, but there are less manuals in number
I sincerely hope Toyota brings back their VVTL in some form. It was an excellent way to make impressive numbers from a small displacement engine. This system combined with the new valvematic vvt would make an engine with outstanding efficiency, and satisfying power while keeping it reliable by eliminating the need for engineering forced induction infrastructure that can cause a need for more frequent oil changes, heavier oil weight which increases drag on the engine, harming efficiency, and worst of all jeopardizing reliability by exposing the oil to more extreme temperatures. I am growing frustrated with forced induction engines that sacrifice ease of ownership in exchange for more power, when a high revving NA engine with variable lift can accomplish the same level of top end, sans the torque.
It’s a shame Toyota became too stingy to apply full leather seats 🙄😞😒
Had my first drive as a passenger in a taxi here in sunny Thailand . Wonderful car 🤩
Had a 2020 se, white nightshade edition. It was totalled. Great car but I feel like it was cheaply made. Now, glory to God, I have the Honda Civic ex hatchback.
The acoustic isolation of this version lets the noise of the engine running in previous versions pass through it was better. Even more is still a great car a good option to buy
The gauge cluster isn’t new. That’s the SE gauge cluster and the XSE has that larger screen/digital blue gauge cluster 0:57
Ahh, I was wondering about that. Good to know, thanks for chiming in!
This reminds me of my '04 RSX (which I still drive), but it's faster, better looking and more functional. Seems to ride just as harshly, which I"m tired of and seems to have the same amount of road noise.
The gauge clusters on all corolla are essentially the same, except for the xse. The xse comes with a digital cluster and is the only one substantially different.
one dip in the road sounds like you hit a whole human body lmao
I can just picture the 2023 model of the apex Corolla
i like how he put the music and drive like hes going to school
That thin sidewall will make any car ride hard. All toyota has to do is slap a turbo on that thing and it'll be a great contender.
169hp, and a cvt? wow, a dream come true.
It looks so good and looks pretty peppy. However, the engine sounds like it’s gonna blow up due to junky cvt. I’m not a fan of cvt’s
It is a CVT but it's definitely not Junky. Yes, it revs like crazy with your foot in it. This transmission has proven itself reliable. The shit CVT the Nissan brand uses breaks by 50k miles.
@@kevina2052 Proven itself?
Toyota hasn’t even been using this CVT that long.
@@ZambonieDude I bought one in 2018. I already have 80k miles on it. Reliability so far with 0 issues..
@@kevina2052 your 2018 having 80k miles doesn't prove reliability just proves that you drove a lot on the highway. It probably will be pretty reliable, but I am just saying
@@keving7940 So a company that has proven reliability makes a car that's reliable? Interesting idea.
Update: 87k miles and counting.. 0 issues.
Have had a couple as rentals (regular corollas). The CVT first gear is cool and feels better off the line, but I did notice a bit of a "bump" when it switches from first to the CVT gear. Engine actually felt great and I reckon it would be a good daily with the manual (rev hang not included...).
Richard Favreau Yeah it's not a deal breaker provided they have fixed the reliability issues. I actually prefer it to a regular cvt, but the change between was noticeable and wasn't always the smoothest. Still better than most dct gearboxes in terms of smoothness.
120 manuals? Are they trying to wind us up? BTW they should make a few Corollas with the Camry's 2.5 for those who want more hp without the complications of a turbo.
They had actually performance corollas up until 2010. 05-06 had the XRS with the 1.8L 2ZZ out of the Lotus Elise, and the 09-10 had the camry engine. The 05 was an insane sleeper of a car, and the 09-10 was also decent, both having manual transmissions. Idk why toyota doesnt make things like that anymore
@@SychicGamer simple. They dont sell. even typical corollas with manual transmissions make up 2% of overall sold. If they do end up making a GR version ill be at the dealership so fast to give them my money though
@@SychicGamer I remember those Corollas as well as the Matrix and Vibe that came with the same powertrain upgrade. A Corolla hatch or better still, a Corolla wagon with the Camry's 203 hp engine and a 6 speed manual would be a sensible option at a very reasonable price point. Toyota has certainly upgraded the handling traits of their TNGA chassis and is slowly but surely shaking off their old image. They say a high hp, AWD, turbo Corolla hatch is on the way but once again, Toyota buyers with a 15-20 year vehicle lifespan in mind may not find a turbo very appealing. For the record, I drive a 15 year old, manual Pontiac Vibe which I bought new.
Sounded like you crashed at 4:46 lmaoooo. Enough for me to consider a different vehicle. Looks like a great car otherwise. Great vid as always Chris.
Brutal
Why does that engine sound so much like the good old 3zz-fe? You can hear it in the higher revs.
I'm really holding out for a GR Corolla. But I am glad Toyota is trying to make the Corolla sporty with this model and the XSE Hatchback
Love the vids Chris, keep them up 👍🏼
Looks just like my 20 LE on the inside. But outside it's much sharper with the useless spoiler and wheels that don't look like they fit on a Corolla. Bit faster yeah but after I just sold my mustang GT for this 20 LE I don't think most people care whether it's the 2.0 or the 1.8. Either way, you're flooring it in a CVT... Thankfully it's a reliable CVT! But the 2.0's CVT is still new, I suppose, with that physical first gear so who knows how well it'll stand the test of time. But at 4:30 I really like that pickup! Best part about Topher's reviews it that he jams on each car (as you should! it's not a sports car!) so you can see the lifestyle of owning this car. Wish this review, and all 2020+ Corolla reviews, dived into the adaptive cruise control and lane keep being available in all trims. At 11:50 Topher gets into it very shortly but it's just so good when you drive it you won't want to return to a car without it.
So why'd you trude from a gt to an le...?
@@jimmypena2442 old stick gt is a pita to daily and this thing literally drives itself
Really wish they would retro with the styling kind of like the Honda E. Love the 60-70’s Corolla.
wow, it seems like there's a real demand for "sporty" cars right now which would explain why so many manufacturers are making sporty trims of their cars, but why don't they just make actual sports cars instead of making their economy cars with sporty features but no real performance?
I rented a 2020 corola base in denver this past weekend and that thing is LOUD. The throttle response was non existent. The audio system is fine in the toyota cars though. Definitely better than all the hondas I have been in. But be ready to hear a lot of road noise in a corolla.
I just can't take this car seriously. It has a body kit, huge wheels and a rear spoiler but still has a CVT and the exact same power output as any other Corolla. The styling looks ridiculous for what kind of car it is.
It's clear Toyota developed the suspension tuning for this thing on a well maintained racetrack, never taking it on public roads..or even their proving grounds. May be just me, but all the visual stuff and rock hard suspension is pointless without a HP/Tq bump...especially if most are going to be cvt.
just got a corolla s today! love it this far
Note* that gauge cluster is for lower spec corollas the fully loaded ones have a larger center LCD for the speedometer and analog gauges on the sides.
Hard to imagine someone picking this car over something like a Mazda 3 which could be bought for cheaper, or just a bit more expensive for a manual version of the 3. There’s also the SI. If you’re wanting an N/A car, I think you’re better off getting an older SI with a K20 which despite being 2 generations older, would blow the doors off this thing and have the same if not better reliability.
Reading the marketing material on Toyota’s website for the Corolla Apex Edition provided a good laugh. “And inside, it’s driver-focused cockpit...” It’s basically the same as the base model which has no ounce of driver-focused design to begin with. A subtle indication you’re basically getting ripped off buying this car if you ask me.
I have a Mazda but c'mon, Toyota is far more reliable than Mazda. That is exactly why people would pick them over a Mazda.
I mentioned earlier, that I would wait for the turbo to come out in the 3. Major game changer.
Immortalkalashnikov Not any more, if you research Mazda reliability, they’re actually more reliable than Honda and Toyota. It’s a shame those company cut manufacturing costs by going with the CVT. Sad really
@@MrAntoniorey I have a Mazda lol. I can tell you it is not as reliable as any of my Toyotas.
@@MrAntoniorey I have a Mazda lol. I can tell you it is not as reliable as any of my Toyotas.
“Spirited drive” and “CVT” aren’t things I’d associate with each other... doesn’t that defeat the point of CVT a lil bit? Not a bad looking car tbf
Spirited driving is all about responsiveness. If this CVT + traditional 1st gear for launch delivers that, then that's that.
@@Lucky8s uh cant really go for a REAL spirited drive with an automatic. cant get into it.
Why does the interior of a Corolla look better than a 2021 Lexus IS?
I disagree. Lexus IS is still pretty dated inside but this looks even more so.
Just bring back the og apex corolla if you want car enthusiasts back to your car scene. I'd go focus se sedan before a corolla again. I wasted my money on the xsp 2015 corolla and never again. I traded it for a focus se hatch and had so much fun driving that around.
Great video, as always. but the car is disappointing compared to the competition from Honda and Mazda, especially with the turbo Mazda3 coming out next year. I for sure wouldn't spend my money on one of these.
Toyota making an admirable attempt to offer an alternative to the civic-Si...but without a turbo engine and chassis that wasn't thrown together, I don't see many people opting for this one. There is also the new Kia Forte GT, Elantra Sport, Mazda 3 turbo is coming, so there really isn't enough here to entice that crowd to make the switch.
Nice review is the suspension stiffer than the civic si?
Still hoping for a GR corolla in North America, it’ll probably be the hatch but hopefully the front end looks similar to the Apex.
damn that actually looks really nice lmaooo never thought id like a corolla
Why not? They're good cars.
Toyota 86 im more of a camry typa guy.
Please do a drive on the 2021 Corolla LE and let it rip on the twisty roads. I love to see that!
I own an XSE and the roads here in California are just as bad as Michigan. It literally glides right over the nasty pavement here with very little noise/shudder heard or felt in the cabin. This thing would be absolutely punishing to drive and I would hate to hear what the Apex would sound like after owning it for a few years. Ouch....
😳 not what I expected, that’s a pretty nice car
120 Manual?
Why even do the manual in the first place then?
Damn they gave him the cvt 😭
Toyota cvt are good bro
120 manuals will be produced.
@@davidrabbit8868 Toyota CVT are one of the better CVTs due to launch control, but they aren't as reliable or fun as a manual.
Which is better... Toyota Corolla CVT or Subaru wrx CVT? Lol
Toyota must have been thinking about the hype of the original JDM 1986 Toyota Sprinter Trueno GT-Apex, which is why the white and black paint on this Corolla looks so familiar AND has the iconic "Apex" title as a possible successor/descendent to the original.
But with only 169 HP and with lots of possible tuning restrictions for the engine, $25k just won't do. It can easily be beaten and preferred over by cars such as the Civic Si or a WRX for example, when you think about the price range.
Toyota tried to persuade customers that the reason the new Supra had even fake vents (that were removable in the first place, as confirmed by Toyota themselves) was to make it easier for aftermarket companies to do modifications to the car and whatsoever.
But if I'll believe it when I see it that it too was Toyota's "intention" to make the car as modifiable as the new Supra, as Toyota claims. In a few years to a decade and a half, this car better be tuned and seen drifting at a track without having some power problems, whatsoever.
It's just a Corolla GR sport which is part of our nations standard line up. we only get 5dr hatch as saloon cars do not sell here plus it's two litre hybrid 184hp
Hey Man I love the jazzy music you've put at the beginning of the sound test. Can you tell me what was it?
Chameleon Sunday
Dude excellent vid, can u pls do the 2020 X5? Thx
Any surround camera so you don't scrape Apex things on curb when parking?
I’m so sad that I had to exchange my se nightshade it looks like it had the apex suspension of some sort. No other SE or XSE rides like it. Never drove an apex unfortunately but just based on this video I feel like I’m right.
This is the highest trim level on the Corolla? What an embarrassment in comparison to my ‘23 Hyundai Elantra! How disappointing.. 💨
how do we end up with boring vehicles like this corolla and not get something incredible like the GR Yaris???
“This might win some enthusiasts over”
What car enthusiast has been waiting for a corolla CVT with a teenager NFS body kit?
Y’all have got to stop asking for manuals in these economy cars designed for lower income families or first car for more well off families. The accelerations were all painfully slow. Seeing that needle not move at all was painful. Idk why people think a car with 169 hp at redline needs a manual. Y’all are bugginnggggggg
The gauge cluster is not new actually I seen it on 2020 middle east Corollas maybe it's new in usa
You didn’t mention if you’d rather be driving the XSE hatchback, non- Apex, over the Apex model. An “at the end of the day” response required
XSE all day. I’m not sure your make it to the end of the day in the APEX without a chiropractor visit.
My 2020 hatchback SE nightshade has same gage cluster
Toyota really stood up!
Have you ever been into accidents test driving the vehicles?
For the price you can get a used 2017 golf R stage 1 and your making 350 HP
Toyota’s for life
I can hear and feel the bad manufacturing from here behind the screen
Sounds like a tool box over bumps! NA motors in Corollas last or current gen, turn into fuel thirsty beasts once hit the elevation or sub-zero temps, defeating it’s purpose of economy vehicle. Speaking from first hand experience. It is severely underpowered. It’s a flat surface, city crowler at best with ridiculous plastic bits that throw an unnecessary statement this car can’t back up. Great vid though as always!
Maybe it’s the proportion but it looks very small compared to the Mazda3 sedan.
Toyota should make corolla true to its DNA which is comfortable, reliable, fuel efficient, value oriented point A. To B transportation. Sporty is not its attribute and its pretentious to be .honest. Corolla is a legend and a global sales leader because it is a sensible car - sporty cars do not make it the global sales leader chart.
Dream car...
This might be a dumb question but would it be possible to help make the suspension not be so aggressive and stiff?
You would be better off buying the SE trim if you’d want that
Damn I want this so bad😍😍😍😍😍
🖤Greetings from the new Corolla wonderful turkey
But with that MRSP, you could buy USED 2015~2017 Lexus IS and GS lol
Has Toyota is trying to be Initial D this time on Corolla?
We need the gr corolla hatch back then it will be close enough.
apex twin cam, eurobeat intensifies
All you need now is a comma ai 2 , openpilot and you are set.
Is this version made in Japan?