Toyota Australia unveiled the the world’s first new-model Corolla Super 2000 rally car at the Melbourne International Motor Show.
Team leader Neal Bates and 2006 Australian Rally Champion Simon Evans said they would each be driving the new 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated car competitively for the first time at the Rally of Canberra in June.
"The dynamics are a lot better than our old car because it is so much lighter - and the sound of the engine revving up to 8,500rpm is amazing," Bates said. The rally car is based on the new Euro-styled Corolla hatch that is making its Australian motor-show debut on the Toyota stand - along with the sleek and sophisticated new-model Corolla sedan. Longer, wider and with more interior space, both Corollas will feature a more powerful 1.8-litre four-cylinder dual VVT-i petrol engine.
The car’s pace is enhanced by its low specified weight - a mere 1150 kilograms. The SADEV six-speed sequential gearbox is another controlled element of the S2000 specification. TRD-specific components on the new car include MCA shock absorbers built by Murray Coote, and an AP Racing brake package with four spot callipers front and rear, with 300mm rotors.
Corolla is Australia’s most popular small car and last month was the top-selling vehicle in the country - a feat it achieved twice last year.
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