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?