Toyota has released a hotted up version of the Japanese domestic market Blade hatch featuring a 3.5L V6 engine with 280hp (206kW) and 345Nm (254lb-ft) of torque. The Blade is sold in Europe as the Auris and in other markets as the
Corolla, and it’s expected that these markets will also get the new V6 version, as we
reported in an earlier story. To give you an idea of just how much power this is,
Volkswagen's Golf R32 hot hatch only gets a 250hp (184kW) powerplant.
The new model comes with a six speed manual as standard as well as a new six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters. Other features include 16in brake discs with upgraded calipers, and 17in alloy wheels with 225mm tires. There's no word on whether there will be any sports suspension changes or improvements to the chassis.
To differentiate the car further, designers have added a mild sports bodykit with unique badging at the tail end. Who said Toyota only made boring cars?
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By Hanakoala Posted: 8/2/2007 7:21am PDT
By admin Posted: 8/2/2007 7:57am PDT
By Rob_Uk Posted: 8/2/2007 8:05am PDT
This looks like a nice package from Toyota. I agree they make boring cars but maybe they will get some new models like that hybrid sports car.
By Hanakoala Posted: 8/2/2007 11:21am PDT
All I'm saying is, the Blade is not sold in Europe badged as an Auris. It's a JDM Auris that is sold as an Auris in the EU.
By biturbo Posted: 8/2/2007 5:07pm PDT
Their idea of performance car is a FWD with more power that can be ever used.
How about their "top of the line" sport-scar, Lexus SC430? Pig heavy, lowest power in the class and looking like an inverted bath tub :)
By Herman L Posted: 8/2/2007 10:50pm PDT
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