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Honda Civic Type R Review

by | Sep 13, 2023 | 0 comments

Honda Civic Type R Review

If looks could kill. The 315-hp 2023 Honda Civic Type R is a purpose-engineered track star with manners

a championship white Honda Civic Type photographed on a corner of the Sonoma raceway

With 315 turbocharged horsepower, the 2023 Honda Civic Type R is the most powerful model in Type R’s 30-year history. (Photography courtesy of American Honda)

Table of Contents

Engineered Durability
Pricing
Performance
Roll on the Power
Datalogger
Ride and Handling
A Couple of Considerations
Interior Function
Why Buy the Honda Civic Type R?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2023 Honda Civic Type R is exciting to look at and just as exciting to drive when its 315-horsepower turbo four is whipped for more, more, more. In between those runs of fury, the Type R settles into its Civic roots as a polite and squeaky-clean compact hatchback.

This segment of high-performance compacts is a storied gathering that includes the Hyundai Elantra N, Subaru WRX, Toyota GR Corolla, VW Golf R, and the Civic Type R.

The Elantra N and the Civic Type R are front-wheel drive, while the other competing models have all-wheel drive. Some are available with an automatic transmission, but the Type R has a six-speed manual only.

Honda’s skill at race-spec engineering transforms one of the top-selling compacts in the U.S. into a purpose-engineered track athlete. And Honda has been at it for 26 years. The Civic Type R has evolved through five different variants globally since it debuted as a 1997 model in Japan and Europe. North America got its first Civic Type R as the fifth-gen model from 2017 to 2021.

Red sport seats and floor mats

Type R interior features include a serial-number plate, high-bolstered front sport seats in red-and-black microsuede fabric, and red floor mats.

The Type R’s Engineered Durability

Built on Honda’s new 11th-generation Civic Hatchback, the sixth-gen 2023 Type R is basically an all-new model from its predecessor. The new hatchback, Honda says, uses 3.8 times more structural adhesive than the previous generation model. Gluing the spot welds doubles the strength and stiffness of the joint. All the better from which to hang the suspension to set performance standards, from the tires to the steering.

To fit the wide Michelin Pilot Sport tires, the new Type R has a 1-inch wider front track and 0.75-inch wider rear track (64/63.5 inches front/rear). There also are significant reinforcements for durability under pressure. For one, the Type R’s transmission has a more rigid exterior case, a high-strength bearing system, and high-strength gears.

Pop the hood, and you’ll find a minimalist red Honda dress-up shroud and a carbon fiber plate over the air induction unit. Look closely for the downspout-sized air intake duct. It takes a lot of fresh air to supply combustion for 315 horsepower.

Honda pushed for speed and control in developing the new 2023 Civic Type R. It set a new production-car, front-wheel drive track record at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan . Home to the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, the new Civic Type R lapped the Suzuka’s 3.6-mile figure-8 in 2 minutes 23.120 seconds. That blistering attack secured its legacy as the best-performing Civic Type R — ever.

According to ZeroTo60Times.com, the 2023 Type R will launch to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The fifth generation Type R is a click quicker at 5 seconds.

2023 Honda Civic Type R Pricing

The Honda Civic Type R is a one-spec choice for engine, manual transmission, and equipment. The 2023 model went on sale in the U.S. about a year ago (Oct. 7, 2022), and already there has been a $900 price bump; the Championship white paint option went up $60, from $395 to $455.

The Type R has a six-speed manual transmission.

A six-speed stick only for the Type R.

Manufacturer pricing for the Civic Type R starts at $44,890, including the $1,095 freight charge from Yorii-Machi, Zaitama, Japan. (However, the Type R engine is built in Honda’s Anna Engine Plant in Sidney, Ohio, and shipped to Japan.) Check here for current Honda and Type R pricing.

My tester was $45,345 with one option for Championship White paint, $455.

Unique Type R interior features include a serial-number plate, high-bolstered front sport seats in red-and-black microsuede fabric with double red stitching, red floor mats, red ambient LED interior lighting, metal-trimmed sport pedals, aluminum shift knob, red illuminated front door panels.

On the outside, look for the Brembo four-piston aluminum front brake calipers, 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, gloss black side sills and wing spoiler, center-mounted, and the car’s signature triple outlet exhaust.

More Type R features are listed below in the specifications chart.

But Try To Find One …

Finding a new Civic Type R takes resolve, and fans at a car show told me that some dealers are asking $20,000 over sticker. A recent online search for a Civic Type R returned just four cars within 100 miles of my address in San Diego and just one Type R at a San Diego dealership (Pacific Honda). The other four Honda dealers in San Diego County included with their post, “We can still help you find it.”

Almost-new 2023 Type Rs, with very low miles, are being sold at dealerships for $50,000 to $56,000, according to Carfax.com. Because there are few factory options, just several accessories, these new-used Type R listings appear to include a dealer add-on “market value.”

The Type R engine has a red "Honda"

315 turbocharged horsepower from the K20C 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine.

Type R Performance

Honda’s legion of Type R enthusiasts can be fanatical about their brand loyalty. Speak with any of these followers and they can recite stats for the Type R’s K20C engine. The VTEC turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder has 315 hp at 6,500 rpm, and a redline of 7,000 rpm. Peak torque of 310 foot-pounds runs from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm.

A new turbocharger has an increased air intake flow rate, and boost pressure is up to 25 psi.

There are four drive modes: Comfort, Sport, +R, and Individual. I used Comfort mode for daily driving, and it gave excellent performance without a jarring ride. Sport mode is exponentially stiffer and becomes quite monotonous at interstate speeds. Individual mode, however, allows specific dial-ins for engine response, steering assist, suspension damping, engine sound, rev-match speed, and the red design of the gauge cluster.

The six-speed stick separates the pretenders from the proficient. Each gear slots with absolute engagement, which is the charm of a six-speed box vs. a crowded seven-speed. There’s little chance of accidental jamming when making fast shifts. And hill-start assist gives added relief as it brakes the car for a couple of seconds when starting on an incline.

Another electronic aid is rev-matching downshifts, which, fortunately, is a driver-selectable choice. To those who can heel-toe shift, this electronic enabler is more of an intrusion. It seems sissy when there are so many how-to heel-toe YouTube videos.

The 9-inch driver gauge screen in red Sport mode.

The 9-inch driver gauge screen in Sport mode.

Fuel Economy Ratings

Official EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2023 Type R are 22 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 mpg combined. Using premium fuel provides the most power, but engine electronics will adjust to run on 87 octane.

I saw a highway mileage reading of 26.8 mpg, beating the EPA estimates. But I’m sure my around-town mileage was sacrificed by too much revving fun.

And keep an eye on the fuel gauge. It does not take long to use up the 12.4-gallon capacity. But a fill-up doesn’t hurt much when gas costs nearly $6 a gallon.

Safety Features

Type R safety features include 10 air bags and a complete set of driving-assist technologies (listed below in the specs box). The Level 2 semi-autonomous driving assist felt a little skitzy — insistent — at the steering wheel. Lane-centering, however, was accurate and reassuring in heavy traffic.

One of my most appreciated technologies is the Traffic Sign Recognition system. It is essential to know the speed limits in this speed-capable Type R.

Honda’s LogR Datalogger

Any sports car with tires this wide, a wing this big, and race seats demands a Performance Datalogger. And Honda complied with an enhanced version of its LogR Performance Datalogger. The datalogger helps drivers monitor and record various performance parameters, whether in real-time on the road, track, or other closed courses. Users can also share their lap times and other data with other Type R owners.

Key Honda LogR features include:

  • Stopwatch to record lap times;
  • Tire friction circle. The 3D motion indicator displays the tire force the vehicle achieves;
  • Scoring function, to help drivers improve their track driving.
19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires have a “contact patch” that is 10.7 inches wide.

19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires have a “contact patch” that is 10.7 inches wide. (Mark Maynard photo)

Power-To-Weight Ratio

The Type R is among the lightest of the current pocket rockets, weighing just 3,188 pounds, two pounds more than the front-drive Elantra N (also front-drive). Lightweighting measures include a vented aluminum hood (same as before) and a new lightweight resin hatch and a resin front bulkhead.

But saving weight also means paring back the budget for soundproofing, and the Type R’s interior noise level is at “Maelstrom” at highway speeds. At 65 mph, the engine revs at 2,500 rpm in sixth gear, and the wind and road harshness only increase with speed.

Type R Ride and Handling

Laying down 310 foot-pounds of torque to the front wheels can be a fury of dreaded “torque steer.” Hard acceleration in an FWD setup can make the tires pull from side to side as they seek traction. That is one reason some of these hot hatches are all-wheel drive, which helps displace torque steer by routing the force to all tires.

Honda has neatly solved the torque steer matter with a couple of engineering enhancements. One is what Honda calls a “dual axis suspension system with adaptive dampers.” The setup “greatly reduces torque steer, primarily through a 0.75-inch reduction in steering axis offset.”

The second piece of magic is the helical-type limited-slip differential, which minimizes wheel spin and puts more power to the pavement. The LSD enables harder acceleration on surfaces with uneven traction and reduces wheel spin when exiting corners.

By the way, Honda says a helical-type LSD describes how the differential’s gear teeth are cut at an angle to the gear shaft. Helical gears are quieter and can channel more torque than straight-cut (or spur) gears.

Roll On the Power

The revs have a sweet rise and fall as gears are neatly engaged. With the engine’s wide-spread of peak torque, shifts do not have to be rushed. Hustling along at 4,000 rpm through a second-gear turn is inspiring. Exit the apex and slot the shifter for third, and roll on the power — then smile at the reassuring pushback in the seat. That’s when these sport seats are in their element.

And that is also when the 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires (265/30) are in their playground. These 10.7-inch-wide rollers bring an attack attitude to performance driving.

The tires have an asymmetric tread pattern and a treadwear rating (UTQG, or Uniform Tire Quality Grade) of 300. Honda advises that these three-season “summer” tires have a life that “may be less than 10,000 miles, depending on how you drive.”

Replacing a tire will run close to $400 — and do not cheap out when it’s time for replacements, or risk a compromise to handling performance.

The Type R’s signature triple round exhaust outlets are centered by the larger boom tube. In Sport mode, the exhaust note is one of determined grit under brisk acceleration, but the tone falls off quickly for quiet cruising.

Honda should have released the booming beast at all levels to remind owners why they paid $50,000 or $60,000 for a compact hatchback. Pull out a couple of baffles and let loose the snap, crackle, and pop.

A Couple of Considerations

With the hatchback’s 1.7-inch longer wheelbase(107.7 inches) and the wide Michelins, the Type R turning circle is an unwieldy 40 feet (39.9 inches). The low ride height is also a chin scraper, requiring some caution at dips in the street and some driveways.

The 9-inch color infotainment touchscreen adds a volume knob, customizable feature settings, and smart shortcuts

The 9-inch color infotainment touchscreen adds a volume knob, customizable feature settings, and smart shortcuts

Interior Function

This generation of Civic Hatchback is a solid base for performance. It has thinner windshield pillars, a lower hood, and the side mirrors mounted on the doors — not the pillar — creating a wide look-around.

Sightlines are open across the hood and out the back, even with that big wing on the decklid. The designers cleverly shaped the wing with an arc that matches the surround of the back glass.

The cabin ergonomics are Honda simple and direct. There’s nothing wrong with the leather-wrapped three-point steering wheel that a flat bottom wouldn’t improve for thigh space. Honda offers an Alcantara-wrapped upgrade with red baseball stitching for $408, but it does not have a flat bottom.

The big, winged race seats, ready for a three-point harness, are a one-size-fits-most.

A short throw shifter with a red shift knob is a $230 accessory, and it might be a worthwhile addition. The aluminum shift knob gets hot when the car has been sitting in the sun; the smooth finish of the knob can mean a missed shift if it slips in the hand. The accessory shifter has a metallic disc top with the lower portion wrapped in red leather.

The open cargo hatch of the Type R

The hatchback Type R has a 60/40 folding back seat and 24.5 cubic feet of trunk space.

Why Buy the Honda Civic Type R?

The Civic Type R is a street-able track car that looks like trouble. It is actually quite harmless but best enjoyed at high volume in competitive driving. The suspension gives stunning control, but as a Monday-Friday commuter, Comfort mode will be the way to go; Sport is just too rough.

As one enthusiast said of the Type R: “Hey, it has four doors; the spouse would approve.”

You can’t miss the Type R’s big wing, decklid spoiler, and triple exhaust tips.

You can’t miss the Type R’s big wing, decklid spoiler, and triple exhaust tips.

2023 Honda Civic Type R Specifications

Body style: Compact 4-seat, 5-door front-wheel-drive high-performance hatchback

Engine: K20C 315 hp, VTEC turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; 310 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,600 to 4,000 rpm; 7,000 rpm redline

Boost pressure: 25psi

Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching, and hill-start assist

Fuel economy: 22/28/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel recommended for max performance

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 12.4 gallons

Cargo space: 24.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 39.3/42.3 inches

Rear head/leg room: 37.1/37.4 inches

Length/wheelbase: 180.9/107.7 inches

Height/width: 55.4/74.4 inches

Curb weight: 3,188 pounds; 62/38 weight distribution

Turning circle: 39.9 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Smartkey entry with push-button start, multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, 10.2-inch driver info screen, 12-speaker Bose sound System with subwoofer, 9-inch color touchscreen (with volume knob, customizable feature settings, and smart shortcuts), electric parking brake, Bluetooth phone and audio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 2.5-amp USB smartphone-audio port (front), 2.5-amp USB charging port, 12-volt power outlet (front), wireless charging pad, sliding sun visors, LED map lights, cargo area cover,

Type R features, interior: Type R serial-number plate, high-Bolstered front sport seats with red-black microsuede fabric with double red stitching, red floor mats, red ambient LED interior lighting, leather-wrapped steering wheel, metal-trimmed sport pedals, aluminum shift knob, red illuminated front door panels, active sound control

Type R features, exterior: Brembo 4-piston aluminum front brake calipers, 19-inch matte black alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, aluminum hood, red Honda badges, Type R badges front and rear, gloss black side sills, gloss black wing spoiler, center-mounted, triple outlet exhaust with active exhaust valve, gloss black side mirrors with LED turn signals

Safety features include: 10 air bags, stability and traction controls, brake distribution, brake assist, and hill-start assist.

Driving-Assistance Technologies

Collision Mitigation Braking; Road Departure Mitigation; Adaptive Cruise Control; Lane Keeping Assist; Forward Collision Warning; Lane Departure Warning; Traffic Sign Recognition System; Auto High-Beam Headlights; Driver Attention Monitor; Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor;

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Suspension: Adaptive damper system; dual-axis MacPherson front struts, rear multi-link; stabilizer bars front (tubular) and rear (solid);

Steering: Dual-pinion, variable-ratio electric power steering; 2.1 turns lock to lock;

Brakes: Power-assisted and ventilated 2-piece front discs, solid rear; 13.8-inch rotors front, 12 inches rear; Brembo 4-piston aluminum front calipers;

Tires-Wheels: 19-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (265/30); 19-inch matte black alloy wheels; tire-repair kit.

PRICING

Base price: $44,890, including $1,095 freight charge; price as tested $45,345

Options on test vehicle: Championship White paint $455

Where assembled: Yorii-Machii, Saitama, Japan

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with 24-hour roadside assistance; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain

VW Golf GTI Review

by | Jul 19, 2023 | 0 comments

VW Golf GTI Review

The scrappy 2023 VW Golf GTI hatchback defined the sport-tuned car segment when it debuted in 1976 for Europe and then in 1983 for the U.S.

The 2023 VW Golf GTI is available in 4 trim levels with starting prices ranging from $31,625 for the 6-speed manual S model to $40,965 for the Autobahn with automatic transmission.

The 2023 VW Golf GTI is available in 4 trim levels with starting prices ranging from $31,625 for the 6-speed manual S model to $40,965 for the Autobahn with automatic transmission. (Photos courtesy of Volkswagen of America or as credited)

Table of Contents

2023 VW Golf GTI Pricing
Clever GTI Features
In Praise of the Base GTI
Interior Function
Golf GTI Performance
Why Buy the 2023 VW Golf GTI?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

Volkswagen’s Golf GTI is the rascal that wakes you up early to go out and play. It might be just the long way to work or for a run to untangle a winding back road. Either way, it is a welcome wake-up call.

This scrappy hatchback defined the sport-tuned car segment when it debuted in 1976 for Europe and then in 1983 for the U.S. The GTI was never about hardcore muscle — VW now leaves that to the 315-horsepower Golf R — but the GTI defined front-wheel-drive frenzy. The Golf GTI is now in its eighth generation, and it still has pure-bred German engineering that is more felt than seen. Its suspension is lithe and lively, but never the bully that beats you up.

Strap into the sport bucket seats, and there is secure but non-intrusive bolstering. The steering wheel gives hand-in-glove control.

With a mere 241 hp, the Golf GTI is about finesse in corner clipping. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder digs deep for power to spool up an accommodating 273 foot-pounds of peak torque at a low 1,600 rpm.

Around town, the six-speed manual has strong pull in second, third, and fourth gears. And at speed on the highway, there is good pull into sixth. The clutch is light when creeping in the commute, and each gear slots with honed smoothness.

At 65 mph on the interstate, the engine is spinning at 2,200 rpm yet its generated sound is never obnoxious as the revs rise. Unlike some sporty cars, this one is comfortable for a road trip.

The Golf GTI is fully fortified with electronic safeguards and an array of driver-assistance technologies — but they do not get in the way of a fun time.

The GTI driver's area

The Golf GTI has driver-focused ergonomics.

2023 VW Golf GTI Pricing

The 2023 Golf GTI is sold in four trim levels of S, SE, Autobahn, and the limited production 40th Anniversary Edition. There is one powertrain choice of a 241-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual or seven-speed Direct Shift Gearbox automated-manual automatic.

Pricing starts at $31,625 for the S — available only with the manual transmission and fabric upholstery — and ranges to $40,965 for the Autobahn with DSG transmission. Retail pricing includes the $1,095 freight charge from Wolfsburg, Germany.

No-cost paint colors are a handsome Atlantic Blue Metallic, Deep Black Pearl, and Reflex Silver Metallic. Or choose the optional colors of Kings Red Metallic, Opal White Pearl, or Moonstone Gray, $395 each.

The GTI 40th Anniversary Edition in Pomelo Yellow Metallic.

The 40th Anniversary Edition in Pomelo Yellow Metallic.

The 40th Anniversary Edition starts at $34,150 with manual transmission, or add $800 for the automatic. The anniversary edition is available in four no-cost and unique two-tone paint schemes of Urano Gray and black, Tornado Red and black, Opal White Pearl and black, or Pomelo Yellow Metallic and black.

VW made approximately 1,500 anniversary editions for the U.S. — about half with the six-speed manual. Despite its limited build, finding one online is not difficult.

While the GTI is a performance bargain, many dealers add markups of $5,000 or more. GTI buyers say shoppers should be patient and seek a dealership that does not exploit the buyer.

Check current Golf GTI pricing here.

Check special Golf GTI offers here  As of this posting, there were three $500 discounts for college graduates, military veterans and first responders, and VW employees, retirees and their household members.

The Digital Cockpit Pro with 10.25-inch configurable instrument display.

The Digital Cockpit Pro with 10.25-inch configurable instrument display.

Clever GTI Features

The good news for Golf shoppers is the longevity of the model. Since the 2012 seventh-generation redesign, the Golf has been built on the new MQB platform. It is shared with the third-generation Audi A3 and other Volkswagen Group models.

Along the way, the Golf has been updated with an array of useful details. Among them:

  • Back seat phone pockets in the front seatbacks;
  • Beefy driver’s footrest;
  • The 3-spoke steering wheel has perforated side grips in the 9-and-3 o’clock position and a flat bottom for driver thigh room;
  • Large door panel storage;
  • Articulated front cup holder snugs up to hold a can or small cup;
  • Sliding front center armrest with ratcheting height adjustment. Long a VW design.
A seatback phone pocket.

A seatback phone pocket.

In Praise of the Base Golf GTI

It is rare that I evaluate a base model of any class of vehicle and would be content to own it. The entry Golf GTI S is an exception and is thoroughly engaging to drive at this price point.

For the added $5,000 of the GTI SE, I do not need a power panoramic sunroof or integrated light bar in the grille, or illuminated door-handle recesses. Nor do I need the Harman Kardon premium audio system. I like the fabric seats for their grip and can do without leather-trimmed upholstery.

The Discover Pro 10-inch navigation and infotainment touchscreen might be nice, but I had no issues using the standard 8-inch screen in the S. It would have been expedient to have the complete keyless access function with push-button start-stop. Instead, the GTI S has half-step access. It includes the push-button start, but to open the doors, the driver must pull the key fob from pocket or purse, then remember to replace it before sitting down.

I praise the 18-inch Goodyear Eagle Sport 255/40 tires that would not cry out as I pushed through tight turns. And the 18s would be less expensive to replace than the 19-inch summer performance tires on the GTI Autobahn model. I also did not feel having the Autobahn’s adaptive chassis control and electronically controlled shock absorbers was necessary. I enjoyed the action of the steel-spring suspension and how well it kept the tires in contact with the road.

Looking down at the six speed manual gear shift

No Sport mode needed with the six-speed manual, it’s all under the driver’s right foot.

Golf GTI Interior Function

The 2023 Golf GTI is a compact-class five-door hatchback but functionally roomy. Because the side mirrors are on the body, driver sightlines on either side of the windshield pillars are open and out the back glass. Cornering views are enhanced by a small corner glass, which helps spot pedestrians in crosswalks.

The back seat is comfortable for two, with headroom almost as tall as the front seat, 38.1 inches. Legroom feels more comfortable than its 35 inches.

Cargo space is good for the week’s groceries or a run to the big-box store. Fold the 60/40 rear seatback for 5 feet in length.

Looking at the GTI engine with hood up

The 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Would a dress-up kit have blown the budget? This engine deserves a little showcase and instead looks naked. (Mark Maynard photo)

Performance

There is a simplicity to the Golf GTI founded in the German ethos of driving the car all week to work, then having fun with it on the weekend.

On the road, the Golf GTI feels tight and solid. It is pure pleasure to feel the suspension rise and then set to soar through sweeping turns or carve an exit off-ramp.

This five-door hatch is all in at 3,133 pounds for the manual and 3,206 lbs. for the automatic. The reserved weight boosts the quickness of the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The 3 chrome-trimmed clutch, brake, and gas pedals.

The Golf GTI clutch is light, and gears slot smoothly.

All GTI models have performance modes of Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Custom. Comfort and Sport have different steering weights and throttle responses. Custom allows a driver to set steering and throttle inputs to their preference. The Sport mode gives more aggressive shifts on cars with the DSG transmission.

With the manual gearbox, performance is all under the driver’s right foot. A skillful driver can bang through the gears to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, according to Car and Driver. The GTI pipes fake engine sound into the cabin, but it is not overdone, and there are different levels according to the performance mode.

EPA fuel economy ratings on the recommended 87 octane are 23 mpg city, 32 highway, and 27 mpg combined. I worked up to a combined rating of 30.7 mpg. The 13.2-gallon tank should yield around 356 to 365 miles of range — but who’s counting when every outing is fun?

The Golf GTI S is fitted with 18-inch Goodyear Eagle Sport 255/40 tires, which would not cry out as I pushed through tight turns.

The Golf GTI S is fitted with 18-inch Goodyear Eagle Sport 255/40 tires, which would not cry out as I pushed through tight turns. (Mark Maynard photo)

Chassis Hardware

Braking: Power assisted, dual circuit, 13.4-inch vented front discs and 12.2-inch vented rear discs;

Suspension: Front struts with lower control arms, coil springs, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar; rear, multilink with coil springs, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar;

Steering: Rack and pinion: electric power assist; 2.1 turns lock to lock; 35.8-foot turning circle.

The GTI back seat.

Back seat space is compact but with many conveniences.

Why Buy the 2023 VW Golf GTI?

The 2023 Golf GTI could be at its apex of development. Volkswagen discontinued the garden-variety Golf in 2021 but kept the Golf GTI and Golf R — for now. The carmaker says it is committed to maintaining these two models until sales dwindle, and with dealership markups that will occur sooner than later. The eighth-gen model will get a comprehensive update next year, according to Automotive News. That should carry the Golf through the end of the decade. “Then we will have to see how the segment develops,” VW brand boss Thomas Schaefer told Automotive News sister publication Automobilwoche.

For Golf loyalists, VW says it will keep the Golf nameplate for a battery-electric vehicle.

A rear view of the Golf GTI shows the twin exhaust tips

The rear of the Golf GTI has a strong stance with a hefty gauge to the twin chrome exhaust tips and roof-mounted spoiler.

2023 VW Golf GTI Specifications

Body style: Compact, 5-seat, front-wheel drive, 5-door hatchback

Engine: 241-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged and intercooled 4-cylinder engine; 273 lb.-ft. torque at 1,600 rpm

Maximum turbo boost: 26.1 PSI

Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission

Fuel economy: 23/32/27 city/hwy/combined mpg; 87 octane fuel recommended

0-60 mph acceleration: 6.4 seconds per Car and Driver

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons

Cargo space: 19.9 to 34.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.5/41.2 inches

Rear head/leg room: 38.1/35 inches

Length/wheelbase: 168.8/103.6 inches

Curb weight: 3,133 pounds, manual; 3,206 lbs. automatic

Turning circle: 35.8 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: digital cockpit Pro (10.25-inch configurable digital instrument display), adaptive cruise control, 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with USB input, 4 USB-C ports (2 front data ports and 2 rear charging ports), wireless phone charging, App-Connect smartphone integration via USB;

Standard Golf GTI S equipment, exterior:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires
  • Adaptive front lighting system with dynamic cornering lights
  • Automatic headlights with arriving-leaving home feature
  • Automatic, LED headlights & LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
  • Heated washer nozzles
  • Heated, foldable, power-adjustable side mirrors with position memory and passenger-side auto-tilt function
  • LED front fog lights with low-speed cornering lights
  • LED taillights
  • Puddle lights on side mirrors

Standard Golf GTI S interior equipment:

  • Wireless charging;
  • Climatronic Touch single-zone automatic climate control with advanced air filter
  • Rearview camera system
  • Cloth seating surfaces with Scalepaper Plaid inserts
  • Front sport seats, heated
  • Leather-wrapped, heated multifunction touch sport steering wheel
  • Multi-color adjustable ambient lighting
  • 60/40 split-folding rear seat with center armrest and pass-through
  • Stainless steel pedal caps.

GTI Specific Features include:

  • GTI grille, bumpers, side skirts, dual chrome-tipped exhaust;
  • Leather-wrapped, multifunction GTI sport steering wheel;
  • GTI Interior with red accents and black headliner.

Safety features include: 6 airbags, brake-pressure distribution, hydraulic brake assist, anti-theft alarm system with engine immobilizer, electronic stability control and anti-slip regulation, electronic differential lock, and engine brake assist,

Driving-Assist Technologies

  • Front Assist (forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring);
  • Travel Assist (semi-automated driving assistance);
  • Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System);
  • Adaptive Cruise Control;
  • Park distance control front and rear; blind spot monitor with rear traffic alert,

PRICING

GTI S Base Price: $31,625, including the $1,095 freight charge; price as tested $31,625

Options on test vehicle: none

Where assembled: Wolfsburg, Germany

Warranty: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper; 3-years/36,000-miles 24-hour roadside assistance; 2-years/20,000-miles scheduled Carefree Maintenance

2023 Toyota GR Corolla Core Review

by | Jun 12, 2023 | 0 comments

2023 Toyota GR Corolla Core Review

The 300-hp, 3-cylinder all-wheel-drive 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a $40K teacup supercar that speaks loudly and rolls on wide Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires

An exterior three quarter view of a supersonic red 300-horsepower, three-cylinder 2023 Toyota GR Corolla

The 300-horsepower, three-cylinder 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a skunkworks project with Toyota GAZOO Racing team. (Photos courtesy of Toyota)

Table of Contents

Toyota Racing
Engineering by GAZOO
My Favorite Sport Compacts
Pricing for the 3 GR Corolla Editions
Safety Features and Technologies
Corolla GR Core Ride and Handling
Why Buy the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

I heard the growl of the GR Corolla before the Toyota driver rounded the corner to my house to deliver the week’s test car. The gutty exhaust tone was not the usual pitter-patter of little Corolla feet. The 300-horsepower, all-wheel-drive 2023 Toyota GR Corolla speaks loudly and rolls on wide Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

What is remarkable about this 300-hp is that it comes from a three-cylinder engine. The teacup powerplant is Toyota’s G16E-GTS engine with direct and port injection. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is tuned “for snappy acceleration out of the corners,” Toyota says. Peak torque runs steadily from 3,000 to 5,500 rpm. The max 300 horsepower comes on at 6,500 rpm. The only transmission offered is a six-speed manual. And the all-wheel-drive system has driver-manipulated torque split front to rear.

Triple exhaust tips reduce back pressure for maximum power and are a subtle show of weaponry.

If it even matters, the fuel economy is 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 mpg combined using the required premium fuel. The 13.2-gallon fuel tank is the same size as in all Toyota Corollas.

GR Corolla interior features include metal-trimmed pedals, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and an 8-inch multimedia display with 6-speaker audio system.

GR Corolla interior features include metal-trimmed pedals, a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and an 8-inch multimedia display with 6-speaker audio system.

Toyota Racing Background

The GR Corolla is a wicked little dart of marketing. It promotes another side of this juggernaut automaker, the second-largest automaker in the world (just behind VW Group).

Toyota has been racing professionally for more than 41 years in American events. It has teams in the Baja 1000, NASCAR, NHRA, Formula Drift, World Rally, and even Midget racing. But the transfer of racing technology hasn’t bled so visibly onto Toyota’s retail vehicle development.

The GR Corolla is a special project granted corporate approval from Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio “Morizo” Toyoda, now 67. He is the founder’s grandson, but he has become better known as Toyota’s chief test driver. He is a skilled racetrack veteran and an advocate for corporate-backed racing.

Because Toyoda was so hands-on in race-testing Toyotas, he took the pseudonym of “Morizo” to disguise his activities from the corporate naysayers. It’s a fun story, found here.

The open hood shows the 300 hp turbocharged three cylinder engine

The GR Corolla’s 300-hp, G16E-GTS 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, tuned “for snappy acceleration out of the corners.”

Engineering by GAZOO Racing

Toyoda worked with its Toyota GAZOO Racing team to get this project right. It is this skunkworks group that develops technologies for Toyota’s GR sub-brand.

The mild-mannered Corolla is built on Toyota’s GA-C platform, accommodating front- and all-wheel-drive powertrains. But before the power goes in, the Corolla gets a workover at the GR factory at Toyota’s Motomachi plant. The accommodating five-door hatch is transformed with frame reinforcements, functional air vents for the engine and brakes, and other aerodynamic tweaks for stability at speed.

The GR Corolla is Toyota GAZOO Racing’s first wholly developed and manufactured model for the North American market. Their work is also available in the Toyota GR86 ($29,000) and the GR Supra ($45,000). Enthusiasts in Japan, Europe, and other countries also have access to the subcompact Toyota GR Yaris. It scoops up 261 hp from the same GR Corolla engine, but the GR Yaris is 430 pounds lighter.

The six-speed shifter with rev-matching downshifts.

The six-speed shifter with rev-matching downshifts.

The team’s detail-obsessed engineering created a race-pedigreed and street-legal track car sold at Toyota dealerships with the standard new-vehicle warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles bumper to bumper and 5 years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain.

Coverage includes “responsible driving on track days,” Toyota says, but it also stresses induvial responsibility. To help protect the car, Toyota offers GR Corolla buyers a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association, with a free, coached track day session.

Comparable cars include the 315-hp Honda Civic Type R, 276-hp Hyundai Elantra N, 271-hp Subaru WRX, and 315-hp VW Golf R.

The 12.3-inch driver information screen has digital gauges for power settings and turbo pressure, a center tach, and gear position indicator lights.

The 12.3-inch driver information screen has digital gauges for power settings and turbo pressure, a center tach, and gear position indicator lights.

My Favorite Sport Compact Cars

The GR Corolla reminded me of the most fun sport-compact cars I have tested. It’s not just about power; it’s the delivery, and the connectedness of the car to the driver.:

1997 Acura Integra Type R;

1998 Ford Contour SVT;

2017-2019 Ford Fiesta ST;

2009 Fiat 500 Abarth;

2018 Hyundai Elantra GT;

2019 Hyundai Veloster N;

2003-2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4;

2004 Mazdaspeed Miata;

2010 Mazdaspeed3 5-door;

2004 Subaru Impreza WRX sedan;

VW GTI or Golf R any year;

And now the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla.

GR Corolla Editions Pricing

There are three performance levels for the 2023 GR Corolla. And buyers of each receive a 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association. Included is a free High Performance Driving Experience .

I tested the entry GR Corolla Core. Core pricing starts at $36,995, including the $1,095 freight charge from Japan. There is a choice of three paint colors: black, white, and Supersonic red, a $425 option.

My Core tester had two of the three available factory options:

Performance package, $1,180, includes front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, 4-piston aluminum fixed-caliper disc brakes with red-painted calipers and GR logo (front), 2-piston aluminum fixed-caliper disc brakes with red-painted calipers and GR logo (rear)

Technology package, $770, includes 8-speaker JBL audio system with dynamic navigation (with 3-year trial), including 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible, one USB media port, wireless smartphone charging pad.

Supersonic Red paint added $425.

Also available is a Cold Weather package, $500, which adds heated front seats and steering wheel.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition has Brin-Naub synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with red stitching.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition has Brin-Naub synthetic leather-trimmed seats with red stitching.

GR Corolla Circuit Edition, $43,995

There is no shame in owning the entry GR Corolla Core. It is a showcase of performance engineering, but it might not compare well to a friend who stepped up to the Circuit Edition. This rascal gets serious about higher performance.

Circuit Edition standard features include a forged carbon fiber roof and an aluminum hood with a bulge and gloss-black air vents. Its disc brakes are the same size as the Core but with red-painted calipers and GR logo.

Rather than the Core’s open differential, the Circuit Edition has Torsen limited slip differentials front are rear.

And there are more gloss black body trim elements, rather than the Core’s matte black.

Circuit Edition interior features include Brin-Naub and synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with red stitching, red mesh inserts, and GR-badged headrests. It also includes the cold weather package of heated front seats and heated leather steering wheel.

The optional carbon fiber roof saves a few ounces of weight

A carbon-fiber roof is standard on the Circuit and Morizo Editions.

GR Corolla Morizo Edition, $50,995

Finding a track-ready GR Corolla Morizo Edition won’t be easy: only 200 were built for 2023.

The two-seat Morizo Edition is the lightest and most powerful of the three trim levels. Its engine gets a 22 lb.-ft. torque boost to 295 foot-pounds from 3,250-4,600 rpm.

Lightweighting comes from several areas. GR engineers removed nearly 100 pounds of weight versus the Circuit Edition, now estimated to be 3,186 pounds. Most weight savings came from removing the back seat, rear speakers, and window lifts. Even the rear wiper and motor were pulled.

The hood and front door panels are aluminum, which saves weight and slightly lowers the center of gravity.

To further stiffen the hatchback body, the engineers added two more floor braces and one more rear strut brace. The frame has an additional 349 spot welds, with more than 19 ½ feet (6 meters) of structural adhesive applied.

Other Morizo modifications range from a close-ratio transmission and shorter differential gears to front brake ducts and mono-tube shock absorbers. Unique forged wheels have wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Check here for current pricing and offers

To lighten the GR Corolla Morizo Edition, engineers pulled over 100 pounds of content for a curb estimated to be 3,186 pounds.

To lighten the GR Corolla Morizo Edition, engineers pulled over 100 pounds of content for a curb estimated to be 3,186 pounds.

GR Corolla Safety Technologies

The GR Corolla is a legitimate, five-door sport-compact car with an expansive tech safety package that gives it Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capability. Toyota’s semi-autonomous driving is among the most accurate I’ve tested. Lane guidance is precise and did not let the car drift wide through highway cornering or cross the white lines.

Among the safety features are 10 air bags, a blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes enhanced stability and traction controls.

Advanced safety technologies include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes:

  • Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection;
  • Lane departure alert with steering assist;
  • Lane tracing assist;
  • Automatic high beams;
  • Dynamic radar cruise control;
  • Road Sign Assist.
All GR Corollas have 14-inch ventilated front discs with four-piston calipers and rear 11.7-inch rear ventilated discs with two-piston calipers.

All GR Corollas have 14-inch ventilated front discs with four-piston calipers and rear 11.7-inch rear ventilated discs with two-piston calipers.

GR Corolla Core Ride and Handling

Choose the Core for its pure fun of rev, shift, and terrorize friends and the school carpool. As with any elite performance model today, the GR Corolla Core has a split personality. Toss the key to anybody who can work a stick shift, and they will have an easy time getting started. Make them aware that there is plenty of sporty fun within legal speed limits. It is on the upper end of engine revs that requires more focus from the driver.

Driving is friendly and unintimidating, but be ready when you engage Sport mode and roll on the power. The engine has bullish torque and acceleration to 60 mph scoots by un 4.99 seconds (same for the Circuit Edition). The lightened and more heavily braced Morizo Edition shaves a couple of tenths at 4.92 seconds.

The clutch has a medium-weight engagement, though never tiring. The shifter has refined gear engagement with a steely machined response. The gearbox is so NOT Corolla.

For all trim levels of GR Corolla, the GR-FOUR AWD has three driver-selectable torque-split settings, front-to-rear: Street 60/40, Touring 30:70), Track 50/50

The suspension is protective of occupants in daily driving but hit a surprise pothole and feel the painful jolt. I’d check the gauges for the flat tire icon on some hits, but I never had a blowout. And those remarkably responsive Michelins will cost around $250 each to replace. The tire has a sticky treadwear rating (UTQG) of 300, which pencils out to a warranty of 30,000 miles. The owner, however, will have waaay too much fun for the rubber to last that long.

The open cargo door shows plenty of space for groceries and track gear

Plenty of space for groceries or track gear.

Why Buy the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla?

The GR Corolla is a pocket-class supercar. It would not be my choice as a road-trip car, but it makes for a helluva fun everything else. It is a performance bargain at less than $40,000. But with a first-year build of around 6,600 cars, pricing competition is rampant.

Many dealership markups are ridiculous. Reports by GR Corolla shoppers have quoted “Limited Market Value” markups of $10,000 to $20,000 for a Core model. And the greed rises exponentially for the Circuit Edition and Morizo editions.

However, according to threads on the GR Corolla forum, there are dealers doing MSRP. “You just have to do the research and find them.”

Toyota does what it can to police those exorbitant dealer addendums, a spokesman said.

“We do our best to have a conversation with the dealer and try to get them to look long-term,” he said. “The GR Corolla will always be somewhat limited in volume, but over time enough supply will help alleviate the current dealer markup situation. “

Toyota has not announced its 2024 lineup yet, but it has said the GR Corolla Circuit Edition will continue for model year 2024. And my source said there would be future GR Corollas.

You’ll just have to do the research to find them.

A rear three quarter view of a SuperSonic red GR Corolla hatchback

The GR Corolla is a wicked little dart of marketing that promotes a more daring side of juggernaut automaker Toyota, known more for its mass-produced dependability.

2023 Toyota GR Corolla Core Specifications

Body style: compact, 5-door, 5-seat AWD hatchback

Engine: 300-hp, turbocharged direct and port injection, 1.6-liter 3-cylinder with rev-matching downshifts; 273 lb.-ft. from 3,000-5,500 rpm

Compression ratio: 10.5:1

Max boost pressure: 25.2 PSI (Core Grade and Circuit Edition); 26.3 PSI (Morizo Edition)

Transmission: 6-speed manual with rev-matching downshifts

GR-FOUR AWD: 3 driver-selectable torque-split settings, front-to-rear: Street 60/40, Touring 30:70), Track 50/50

Differential type: Open (Core Grade); front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials Circuit Edition and Morizo

0-60 mph acceleration, manufacturer estimated: 4.99 seconds (Core and Circuit Edition); 4.92-sec. (Morizo Edition)

Top speed: 142.9 mph

Fuel economy: 21/28/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel required

CHASSIS HARDWARE

Suspension: MacPherson-type struts front, rear double wishbone-type multilink with stabilizer bars front and rear, 26.5mm front, 24mm rear.

Brakes, all models: 14-inch ventilated front discs with 4-piston calipers; 11.7-inch rear ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers.

Wheels: 18-inch cast alloy gloss black 15 spoke, Core Grade and
Circuit Edition; 18-inch, 10-spoke forged alloy wheels in a matte black finish, Morizo Edition.

Tires: 18-inch 235/40R Michelin Pilot Sport 4, Core Grade and Circuit Edition; 245/40R Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, Morizo Edition.

Track width, front/rear: 62.6 inches, Core and Circuit Edition; 62.6/63.7 inches, Morizo Edition.

Curb weights: 3,252 pounds Core; 3,262 lbs. with dual limited-slip diffs

Coefficient of drag: 0.35

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons

Cargo space: 17.8 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.4/42 inches

Rear head/leg room: 37.6/29.9 inches

Length/wheelbase: 173.6/103.9 inches

Turning circle: 36.1 feet

FEATURES

GR upgrades include:

  • Wide body front and rear fender flares
  • Fabric sport seats with GR logo
  • Matte black front grille with GR badge
  • Rear bumper with air vents and gloss black front fender vents
  • Stainless steel triple exhaust tips
  • GR leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Standard GR Corolla features include: smart-key locking with GR push-button ignition, a rearview camera with parking aid lines, a 12.3-inch driver info display, an 8-inch multimedia display with six-speaker audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 60/40 split folding back seat, gloss black 15-spoke 18-inch wheels with 235/40 Michelin Pilot Sport4 tires; 14-inch 4-piston vented front disc brakes and 11.7-inch 2-piston vented rear discs.

Safety features include: 10 air bags, blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, Star Safety System of enhanced vehicle stability control, traction
control, 4-wheel ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and Smart Stop Technology;

Advanced safety technologies: Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes:

  • Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection;
  • Lane departure alert with steering assist;
  • Lane tracing assist;
  • Automatic high beams;
  • Dynamic radar cruise control;
  • Road Sign Assist.

PRICING

GR Corolla Core base price: $35,900, including $1,095 freight charge; price as tested $39,659

Options on test vehicle: SuperSonic paint $425; carpet cargo mat $110; carpet floor mats $179;

Performance package, $1,180, adds front and rear limited-slip differentials with red-painted brake calipers and GR logo

Technology package, $770, adds premium 8-speaker JBL audio with a wireless phone charging pad

Where assembled: Aichi, Japan

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance; 2-years/25,000-miles free scheduled maintenance; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain

2022 Honda Civic Hatchback Overview

by | Jul 10, 2021 | 0 comments

2022 Honda Civic Hatchback Overview
The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback in the new paint color of Boost Blue Pearl.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback in the new paint color of Boost Blue Pearl. (All photos courtesy of Honda)

BY MARK MAYNARD

Take a look at the handsomely redesigned 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback with its claimed Euro-inspired exterior. The fresh styling smooths the loud angles, vents, and peaks of the previous hatchback. The new speed-line stance of the 2022 model is almost luxury-class in its presence.

The 2022 hatchback builds on the same styling as the new Honda Civic sedan, which has just gone on sale. In addition, the compact hatchback will be built in the U.S. for the first time at Honda’s Greensburg, Ind., plant. Production is scheduled to begin later this year, and cars are expected in dealerships in the fall.

Read my 2022 Honda Civic sedan first look here.

It is no surprise that Honda aimed the Civic Hatchback at young, active buyers. The hatchback has a sportier driving character, Honda says, and will again be available with a short-throw six-speed manual transmission.

Honda debuted the 2022 Civic Hatchback during the Civic Tour “Remix” performance on the Honda Stage YouTube Channel. Watch the 51-minute video here.

Sign up for updates or to preorder here.

Front seats of the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback

The driver area has a clean design with improved outward visibility, Honda says.

Ride and handling

The hatchback’s suspension and steering were developed in Europe and fine-tuned for North America.

The rear track is wider by 0.5-inch for added stability, and the additional 1.4-inches of wheelbase help smooth out its ride quality, Honda says. In addition, new rear lower control-arm bushings promote better straight-line stability and turn-in. The new hardware also reduces noise and vibration inside the cabin. In addition, the electronic power steering has been re-tuned for better feedback and improved straight-line stability.

The suspension and steering upgrades resulted in a smoother and more precise feel in turns, Honda says. Other chassis updates include low-drag front brake calipers and low-friction wheel bearings that reduce rolling resistance.

The foundational improvements will benefit any planned higher-performing models, such as the Civic Si and Type R. But Honda will not confirm or deny future plans for those models. However, those sportier models have long been part of the Civic line.

A front view of the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback

The coupe-like profile of European sportbacks inspired the hatchback’s exterior styling, Honda says.

Powertrains

The Honda Civic Hatchback will be available in two engine choices for the first time. The previous model had just a turbocharged,1.5-liter four-cylinder.

Both engines will be available with a six-speed manual transmission or continuously variable automatic. The CVT was revised for improved fuel economy, and new step-shift programming simulates physical gear changes under hard acceleration.

The entry LX and Sport trim levels will have a 158-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The engine produces peak torque of 138 foot-pounds at 4,200 rpm.

A 180-hp, turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder powers the EX-L and Sport Touring trims. The engine produces peak torque of 177 lb.-ft. from 1,700-4,500 rpm, also on 87 octane fuel.

Fuel economy ratings for the 2022 models have not been released, but expect the mileage to be comparable to or better than the 2021 hatchback. The base 2021 CVT model has mileage ratings of 31 mpg city, 40 highway, and 34 mpg combined on 87 octane. The six-speed manual in base models has ratings of 29/37/32 mpg city/highway/combined.

The Honda Civic Hatchback cargo area.

1.6-inches widened the hatchback’s cargo opening.

What’s new on the Civic Hatchback?

  • Lightweight composite hatch structure reduces hinge size for a clean roofline;
  • The enhanced structure is 19-percent stiffer in torsional rigidity;
  • Rear legroom was improved by nearly 1.4 inches;
  • The cargo opening was widened by 1.6 inches;
  • Boost Blue Pearl and Smoky Mauve Pearl are new paint colors.

Civic Safety

Standard safety features in the Honda Civic Hatchback include10 air bags, including side rear-seat bags, and the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. A new single-camera radar-based system provides a longer and wider field of view. The system also adds Traffic Jam Assist.

Honda Civic Hatchback Pricing

Pricing for the 2022 model has not been announced. However, for comparison, the 2021 Civic Hatchback has starting prices of $23,215 to $30,415, including the freight charge from Japan.

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback: The shape of things to come

by | Dec 6, 2018 | 0 comments

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback: The shape of things to come

The 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback is now a benchmark in this segment of compact five-door, non-sedans that includes the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic and VW Golf.

Forget everything you once knew about the Corolla nameplate being synonymous with boring but dependable transportation. The redesigned 2019 Corolla Hatchback is updating the 52-year-old nameplate with youthful styling, sophisticated interior materials, a full integration of safety technologies and a new attitude of sporty drivability.

It might now be the benchmark in this segment of compact, five-door non-sedans, which includes the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Accent, Kia Forte, Mazda3, Nissan Versa Note and VW Golf.

It is an enjoyably nimble car to drive with a well soundproofed cabin and a forgiving independent suspension this is firm enough for fun but comfortable for everything else.

The completely re-engineered hatchback replaces the previous Corolla iM hatch and is on Toyota’s new global platform for cars. The chassis is 60 percent stiffer and the footprint is a little lower and a wider and about a half inch shorter.

The hatchback’s speed-line body styling might compromise some cargo capacity, but it is a head-turning trade off. And it follows through to the rear with a pair of horizontal dual-exhaust outlets that are integrated into the fascia. It’s not about performance but it does look cool at the curb.

The Corolla Hatchback is sold in two well-equipped trim levels in front-wheel drive with one powertrain of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a manual transmission or continuously variable automatic. Starting prices range from $20,820 for the entry SE with six-speed manual to $25,010 for the XSE with CVT. Today’s tester is an SE with CVT that was $23,410 with the SE preferred package ($1,400), which adds a blind-spot monitor and Entune 3.0 audio upgrade with app suite.

The cabin has contemporary styling with reserved piano black trim.

The hatchback is a step up in content from the basic Corolla four-door and includes such standard equipment as smartkey locking and push-button ignition, six-way manually adjusted driver seat, electric parking brake, seven air bags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, LED headlights and taillights, an 8-inch multimedia touch screen and six-speaker audio system, a phone-accessed Scout GPS Link and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The XSE is a tech-step upward with adaptive (turning) headlights, LED foglights, leather-and-fabric upholstery, heated front seats, eight-way power driver’s seat, 18-inch wheels and more soundproofing.

There are only four factory option packages: adaptive front headlights $415; the SE preferred package, $1,400, includes a blind-spot monitor and Entune 3.0 audio upgrade with app site Toyota Connected Services; the XSE preferred package, $1,600, includes a navigation system, wireless phone charging pad and 800-watt, eight-speaker Entune JBL audio upgrade.

The shift console includes a handy place to lay a phone with adjacent USB and audio input ports. 

The 168-hp engine has 31 more horsepower than the 1.8-liter it replaces and 25 more foot-pounds of torque, now at 151 lb.-ft. torque at 4,800 rpm. The entry SE with CVT gets the top mileage ratings of 32/42/36 compared to 28/37/31 mpg for the manual and 30/38/33 for the XSE CVT. I was averaging 27.7-30 mpg in mostly city driving.

It is an enjoyably nimble car to drive with a well soundproofed cabin and a forgiving independent suspension that is sporty enough for fun, but comfortable for everything else. Braking is well executed with four-wheel discs, 11.5-inch vented rotors front and 10.5-inch solid rear.

The Dynamic-Shift CVT is groundbreaking for its fixed first gear for a solid launch from the traffic light without a wail of motorboating as the transmission tries to catch up with the engine revs. The transmission simulates 10 sequential steps and has a Sport mode and paddle shifters with rev-matching downshifts. With active cornering assist there is more grip in hot turns and the transmission will downshift on hard braking.

Back seat space has a comfortable seatback angle but requires a limber squeeze through the door.

And with the addition of Toyota Safety Sense as standard equipment, the Corolla hatch outdistances the competition and most of those in the luxury class, too. Yet, blind-spot alert is still an option.

The safety-sense suite is the foundation for semi-autonomous driving and it features several driver-assist aids. The pre-collision and pedestrian-detection system uses a forward-facing camera and monitors the road for a preceding vehicle or pedestrian — day or night — or a daytime bicyclist. The adaptive radar cruise control has been enhanced to match speed and distance control and to watch for cut-in by other drivers.

The safety-sense suite is the foundation for semi-autonomous driving and includes:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection. It uses a forward-facing camera to detect a preceding vehicle or pedestrian — day or night —or a daytime bicyclist. If the driver does not respond to audible and visual alerts, the system will hit the brakes to help avoid a collision with the help of forward collision warning, brake assist and automatic emergency braking. 

There is a lot of open space in the cargo capacity when the seats are folded, which form a contiguous flat space.

Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: For use on the highway, the adaptive system works between 0 to 110 mph and allows stopping and acceleration. It is a well-calibrated aid that has been enhanced to match speed and distance control and to watch for cut-in by other drivers.

Lane-tracing assist keeps drivers between the white lines of sweeping highway curves and exit ramps. While Road Sign Assist identifies signage for speed, stop, yield and do not enter.

The light steering touch, braking refinement and gentle dip of the suspension will be the first hints that the new Corolla hatchback does not share much with its econobox sibling.

The cabin has contemporary styling with a charcoal-tone fabric headliner, reserved use of piano black trim and a neatly stitched dash top, seats and door trim. All controls are easy viewed and adjusted. The little sliding-top armrest has a storage box with a charging USB (2.1 amp) and a 12-volt plug. The shift console includes a handy place to lay a phone with adjacent USB and audio input ports. Visors have extenders and covered, lighted mirrors.

It is an enjoyably nimble car to drive with a well soundproofed cabin and a forgiving independent suspension this is firm enough for fun but comfortable for everything else.

Sightlines are good at the side mirrors, which have a quarter pane for a snip more cornering view (rather than a solid panel at the wide base of the mirror). Rearward views are more complex at the wide wrap of the rear roof pillars, but the head restraints can be folded for a better view and the rearview camera is helpful with guidance lines.

Back seat space has a comfortable seatback angle but requires a limber squeeze through the door.  There are no USBs for guests to use but a fold-down armrest has cup holders and there is a cup holder in each door.

There is a lot of open space in the cargo capacity when the seats are folded, which form a contiguous flat space. The 60/40 seatback folds for about 5 ½ feet of length by 41 inches wide. The cargo floor is somewhat shallow at 23 ½ inches at the opening, but there is room below the floor for a temporary spare.

Toyota appears hopeful that young drivers will pay up for a car that supports their lifestyle without killing their paycheck. But what works for young people, works for all.

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback

  • Body style: compact, 5-pass., front-drive 5-door hatchback
  • Engine: 168-hp, direct- and port-injection 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; 151 lb.-ft. torque at 4,800 rpm
  • Transmission: CVT
  • Fuel economy:  30/38/33 mpg city/hwy/combined; 87 octane

Starting prices range from $20,820 to $25,010.

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Fuel tank: 13.2 gal.
  • Cargo space: 18 cu. ft.
  • Front head/leg room: 38.4/42 in.
  • Rear head/leg room: 38/29.9 in.
  • Length/wheelbase: 169.9/103.9 in.
  • Curb weight: 3,060 lbs. *base model
  • Turning circle: 37.4 ft.

FEATURES

  • Standard equipment includes: keyless entry and push-button ignition, rearview camera, 4.2-inch multi-information gauge display, power mirrors with turn signals, power windows (with auto up-down for all), acoustic laminated windshield, LED running lights, bi-LED combination headlights
  • Safety features include: 7 air bags, brake assist, brake-force distribution

PRICING

  • Base price: $22,010, including $920 freight charge; price as tested $23,410
  • Options on test vehicle: SE preferred package $1,400
  • Where assembled: Takaoka, Japan