What’s Hot: 2021 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Special Edition

Hopping on the Hot Hatchback Bandwagon in Supersonic Red

The 5-door hatchback adds an extra leg of versatility, so why not make it fun to drive while you’re at it. That’s precisely what Toyota has done with the introduction of the Corolla Hatchback Special Edition. Not to be confused with the SE trim, its cosmetic enhancements visually assures youth and sportiness with a supersonic red finish and a ton of black accents with its larger 18″ wheels, fitted body kit, front splitter, side skirts, and rear spoiler.

The standard 169 horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine doesn’t make it the quickest of the bunch, but the unique direct-shift CVT transmission adds a first launch gear before handing off power delivery the CVT transmission that emulates a 10-speed gear box helps get you the best of both driving enthusiasm and fuel economy.

Alike the rest of the Toyota lineup, the Corolla Hatchback Special Edition comes standard with a generous set of both safety and tech features including an 8″ Enform infotainment touchscreen complete with AM/FM/XM radio and compatibility with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, blind spot monitoring, rear view camera, pre-collision avoidance and lane departure warning. The Special Edition will also add convenience upgrades including heated front seats and steering wheel, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and wireless charging

Road practice delivers exactly what’s advertised. It feels light and nimble and the launch gear propels the hot hatch off the line with ease. Even after going up to speed, the emulated 10-speed CVT transmission feels like an actual gearbox that’s seamlessly manipulated at will via its steering mounted paddle shifters.

It’s fun as it is exciting while adding every bit of practicality in a 5-door hatchback variant with plenty of cargo space to spare in the back. The Special Edition trim adds $6,685 to the base Corolla trim of $22,390.