Toyota has released a high-performance version of its Blade hatchback in Japan today. The car is powered by the same 3.5L V6 that is in the Lexus IS350 and other Toyota models. It features 276hp and 253 lb-ft. of torque.
The Blade is sold in Europe as the Auris and as the Corolla in other markets. These markets are expected to get the high-performance version as well. Let's hope the US also gets the car!
The new version comes with a six speed manual transmission or an optional six speed auto transmission with paddle-shifters. 17in alloy wheels, upgraded brakes, and a sportier suspension are also part of the package. The car also features a bodykit to differentiate it from the regular model. The car is expected to achieve around 23mpg.
Compare this to the VW Golf R32, which only has 250hp, although the Blade does not have all-wheel-drive.
Toyota needs this car and other cars like it in the US! It is rumored that the Toyota Matrix is going to be replaced by the Blade...so keep your fingers crossed.
Full Story: Autoblog
Related Stories:
2009 Toyota Blade
2009 Toyota Blade Spy Photos?...Mazda 3 Competitor?
Toyota is Going to Unveil the new 2009 Corolla, HD Tundra and FJ Cruiser Convertible at The 2007 SEMA Show
Toyota is Working on a New AE86 Type Car...For Those of Us that Remember the 80's RWD Corolla
Comments (7)
This would be great, but I don't see Toyota doing it. I mean, how long was the Corolla and Matrix with the 180hp 1.8L/6-spd for sale before they discontinued it?
The market is different now, but a 3.5L six over a turbo 2.0L for a small car? (not that I wouldn't want a torqey 3.5L)
Posted by Noya | August 2, 2007 6:42 PM
Posted on August 2, 2007 18:42
If it started at ~$23,000 like the Mazdaspeed 3 then it would make sense. It would be like having a civic hatch with a V6 in it. Make it RWD and call it the new Trueno/Levin!
Posted by JohnnyNismo | August 2, 2007 7:54 PM
Posted on August 2, 2007 19:54
LOL 2GR-FE in a hatchback.
I agree, bring back cheap, simple, RWD, bang for the buck cars like the AE86.
Posted by Chris | August 2, 2007 8:19 PM
Posted on August 2, 2007 20:19
Heh, well I'm hoping they'll be dropping the same engine in the AE86 replacement as a high performance version (ultra high performance version?)
But I'm glad to see that, aside from the FT-HS, Toyota is thinking about some performance cars (or at least, thinking about higher performance models) to fill that gaping hole in their lineup. I'll definitely be waiting for this
Posted by Eddie | August 3, 2007 2:25 PM
Posted on August 3, 2007 14:25
It's too bad it almost looks like a Honda Civic 4Dr.
Also, where does this model fit in with the current styling of the other Toyotas?
Posted by Andrew | August 3, 2007 3:47 PM
Posted on August 3, 2007 15:47
hi all, toyota claims to have more horses than the VW. But, they are forgetting the fact that it is not the power on paper that matters.... they need to lay it on the road as well... which they haven't been completely succesful at.... well, looking forward to it although not would prefer the R32 or the GTi anyday......
Posted by Revhard | August 7, 2007 5:47 AM
Posted on August 7, 2007 05:47
hi all, toyota claims to have more horses than the VW. But, they are forgetting the fact that it is not the power on paper that matters.... they need to lay it on the road as well... which they haven't been completely succesful at.... well, looking forward to it although would prefer the R32 or the GTi anyday......
Posted by Revhard | August 7, 2007 5:47 AM
Posted on August 7, 2007 05:47