Clue-rich Instagram post hints at Toyota GR Corolla

MANILA: Toyota USA gave a teaser of the GR Corolla. It was a teaser so subtle, it took a month before the public noticed that the carmaker's Instagram post hinted at the Gazoo Racing version of the compact hatchback. 

Thanks to an eagle-eyed member of grcorollaforum.com, many got to see the clues pointing to the GR Corolla.

Toyota USA's press photo may show the interior of the regular Corolla, but upon closer look, the instrument cluster says "G:16," which could refer to the G16E-GTS turbocharged three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris. Rumors say that the G16E will power the GR Corolla. 

Meanwhile, the climate controls show "2" and "68," a reference to the 268hp output of the GR Yaris. The navigation screen shows a road called "GR Four," which is what Toyota calls its performance all-wheel-drive system. 

The biggest clue of the GR Corolla's coming existence can be seen from the car's window:  a probable camouflaged mule of the GR Corolla driving by. Toyota USA even captioned this clever photo with the phrase "Keep them guessing... #Corolla Hatchback #LetsGoPlaces." 

And guessing we did. It can be assumed that Toyota is answering US public clamor for the GR Yaris. However, modifying the rally homologated hot hatch to US-market standards might cost the company, so Toyota is bringing in the next best thing by fitting the GR Yaris drivetrain to the US-market Corolla Hatch. 

Now, since the standard Corolla Hatch isn't available locally, this could indicate that the GR Corolla will stay in the US. The local arrival of the GR Yaris and GR Supra, however, gives us hope that there's still room for another GR car in Toyota PH's lineup.

Photos from Toyota, screencaps from Toyota USA Instagram,  grcorollaforum.com

Also read: Toyota Gazoo Racing annexes manufacturers' crown with 1-2 finish in WRC finale