The all-new Toyota Corolla XRS sport sedan made its world premiere at a press conference today at the 2003 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The Corolla XRS will feature a re-tuned version of Toyota's 2ZZ-GE dohc engine and six-speed manual found in both the Celica GT-S and the European Corolla T-Sport. The increase in power over the standard Corolla 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. 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."

Don Esmond, Toyota Division senior vice president and general manager.

The new Corolla XRS will be powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder DOHC engine that produces 170 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. The engine will deliver broader and stronger mid-range torque (the main short-coming of previous versions), but remains a typically high-revving engine with most power available in the 6,000 to 7,800 rpm range. The improvement in mid-range output helps cut the zero-to-sixty time to below eight seconds, with exceptional throttle response throughout its broad power band. Despite the increase in power, fuel economy is hardly compromised with initial estimates of 25 mpg 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.

The Corolla XRS will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Canada (TMMC) in Cambridge, Ontario alongside the Matrix. It will reach dealerships on May 1st of next year. Annual sales of the XRS are projected at approximately 5,000 units.