Originally posted by 2004_Acura_TSX
Oh wow! I like!

This will be the car I might want to get when I sell my TSX next spring! DOHC VVTL-i....170HP! Finally a real car with power!!!

Originally posted by 2004_Acura_TSX
Oh wow! I like!

This will be the car I might want to get when I sell my TSX next spring! DOHC VVTL-i....170HP! Finally a real car with power!!!

INFORMATION PROVIDED BY TOYOTA


The all-new Toyota Corolla XRS sport sedan made its world premiere at a press conference today at the 2003 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show.
The Corolla XRS will feature a newly tuned version of Toyota's 2ZZ dual overhead cam engine and six-speed manual transmission found in both the Celica GT-S and Corolla Matrix XRS. The increase in power will be complemented by improved ride and handling, thanks to a sport-tuned suspension and new steering improvements.

"With the popularity of the sporty Corolla S, the logical next step was to match its youthful styling with a performance-driven powertrain," said Don Esmond, Toyota Division senior vice president and general manager. "We expect the XRS to follow the course started by the S grade by appealing to younger customers, with an increase in single male buyers."

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 result is a compact sport sedan that blends sub-eight-second zero-to-sixty acceleration with exceptional throttle response throughout its broad power band.

Despite the increase in power, fuel economy is hardly compromised with initial estimates of 25 miles-per-gallon in the city and 32 on the highway.

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, color-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.

Originally posted by domn
Are you serious? No seriously are you serious?

Originally posted by rb6teg
Yes, he's serious. Over on HAN all he ever does is talk trash about his TSX. None of us get it.

Anyway, I think this is an excellent suprise. I've always liked the looks of the new corollas, but I never thought Toyota would make a move like this. Maybe this will kick Honda into action?

Originally posted by 2004_Acura_TSX
I was very happy with my TSX when I picked it up back in May, but it has been nothing but problems now. So many things on the car is either falling apart or doesn't work properly. The local Acura dealer refuses to fix these problems and would charge me for the labor costs even if its covered under warranty. I can deal with the harsh rattling/vibrations and the CD changer jamming. I have a 6 speed manual and the tranny's slipping and my front passenger side window doesn't go up all the way cuz the motor is bad, everytime it rains my car will leak on that side.

Also, the car doesn't seem to have power, one time I took along two of my friends in my car and it wouldn't go on the expressway and I was shocked!

It makes me begin to wonder if this car was rushed because I have never had so many problems with a new car before.

Originally posted by 2004_Acura_TSX
I was very happy with my TSX when I picked it up back in May, but it has been nothing but problems now. So many things on the car is either falling apart or doesn't work properly. The local Acura dealer refuses to fix these problems and would charge me for the labor costs even if its covered under warranty. I can deal with the harsh rattling/vibrations and the CD changer jamming. I have a 6 speed manual and the tranny's slipping and my front passenger side window doesn't go up all the way cuz the motor is bad, everytime it rains my car will leak on that side.

Also, the car doesn't seem to have power, one time I took along two of my friends in my car and it wouldn't go on the expressway and I was shocked!

It makes me begin to wonder if this car was rushed because I have never had so many problems with a new car before.

Originally posted by 2004_Acura_TSX
I was very happy with my TSX when I picked it up back in May, but it has been nothing but problems now. So many things on the car is either falling apart or doesn't work properly. The local Acura dealer refuses to fix these problems and would charge me for the labor costs even if its covered under warranty. I can deal with the harsh rattling/vibrations and the CD changer jamming. I have a 6 speed manual and the tranny's slipping and my front passenger side window doesn't go up all the way cuz the motor is bad, everytime it rains my car will leak on that side.

Also, the car doesn't seem to have power, one time I took along two of my friends in my car and it wouldn't go on the expressway and I was shocked!

It makes me begin to wonder if this car was rushed because I have never had so many problems with a new car before.

Originally posted by TinkySD
domn: in the states the civic si does have the 160hp k20a3

Originally posted by TurboBanana93
Why? 170hp..
Toyota should put Celica GTS 180 hp engine..
if not..use i vtec

By MARK RECHTIN | Automotive News



LAS VEGAS -- Toyota Division will launch a high-performance version of its Corolla in May.

Toyota says the Corolla already has gained a younger audience with the current Corolla S model, which has more than half of its buyers under age 29. Toyota saw a further opportunity for a Corolla that backed up its performance look with actual performance. The Corolla XRS was approved last year, said Don Esmond, Toyota Division general manager, at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show here this month.

"We've wanted to get into the Honda Civic Si market," Esmond said. "Three years ago, here at SEMA, you wouldn't have seen any of our products. Now you see Scions, Celicas and Matrixes. We're getting our foot in the door."

The Corolla XRS is powered by the same 1.8-liter Yamaha motor that's in the top-end Celica and Matrix, generating 173 horsepower and 127 pounds-feet of torque. The engine power delivery has been slightly remapped from that of the Matrix and Celica, however, to provide more torque in the middle of the rpm range.

A six-speed manual transmission will transfer that power to the pavement. In keeping with the performance angle, Toyota applied a sport-tuned suspension with increased-rate springs and shocks that also lower the vehicle by half an inch. Sixteen-inch wheels and Michelin performance tires are standard.

The interior will be outfitted with sport seats, a leather shift knob and faux-metallic center console and switch plates.

Toyota hopes to sell 5,000 Corolla XRS units a year. All will be built at Toyota's plant in Cambridge, Ontario.

Although pricing has not been set, Esmond said the XRS will cost about $2,500 more than the top-end model. The top of the line 2004 Corolla LE starts at $15,265, including freight.

Originally posted by charliemike
I saw the picture of it in the SEMA thread. Needs a major lowering but I'm all for it. The more choices in the $20k range the better. It would be nice not to have to spend $30k to get a fun car.

Originally posted by Junkster
I think that the corolla just went away from the formula that worked for them back in the early 90's, when they were affordable, reliable cars. It had such a great name recognition. Now, it's priced out of most of it's target market, I mean it's priced like a low market mid size with the looks of a compact. I wish Toyota would get back to the basics with the Corolla.

That being said, I think a performance minded Corolla would be great. Especially if it comees with Toyota reliability.

Junkster, whose mom used to drive a 88 corolla... sniff I miss that car.

Originally posted by heyitsme
its nice, but a little late to the party and that engine really isn't enough to make the xrs standout from the other mid/high 15's sportcompacts.

Originally posted by gilboman
they got the echo and Scion brand to take place of the old corolla's market so they have room to move the corolla upmarket..but i think the materials inside the new corolla is nice..all it needs is a nice slam to the ground and its good to go.