JDM-spec Toyota Corolla Sport is an all-wheel drive turbo hatch

Toyota's new range-topping Corolla Sport line-up has been announced for the Japanese market, confirming the new hatchback will be offered with either a hybrid or turbocharged power unit, with the latter available with all-wheel drive.

The new twelfth generation Toyota Corolla Sport will also feature the company's first on-board Data Communication Module (DCM) as standard across the range. The unit enables functions such driving guidance (assistance from call centre or dealer when warning lights are activated), remote vehicle diagnostics, maintenance reporting, car security (lock or unlock your car via smartphone) and Toyota's HELPNET service that can contact emergency services in the event of an accident.

For the Japanese market, customer will have a choice of a hybrid - utilising the same power unit in the latest Prius with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder and 53kW electric motor, -or petrol-powered 1.2-litre turbo with all-wheel drive and manual options in the pipeline.

The turbocharged 1.2-litre direct injection engine will produce 85kW of power between 5200-5600rpm and 185Nm or torque between 1500-4000rpm. From launch the engine will be mated to a CVT gearbox with manual close-ratio 10-speed mode. But in August Toyota will add a 6-speed manual option to the line-up.

Toyota Corolla Sport range. Photo / Toyota Japan

Corolla Sport models will be offered in two grades; entry-level 'Z' and top-spec 'X'. Petrol-Powered Corolla Sport models will also be available in either front- or all-wheel drive for the first time. Hybrid models are all front-wheel drive.

The new Corolla Sport is underpinned by Toyota's latest TNGA platform, enabling a lower centre of gravity and promising 'fun to drive' dynamics.

The new looks are said to be styled by aerodynamic efficiency, with a low hood and flowing headlight design merging with the upper grille and front bumper.

Corolla Sport models in Japan will feature a new emblem that uses the letter “C” as its motif, and customers will have a choice of eight exterior colours.

The new TNGA platform has also enable the instrument panel to be lowered in the cabin, which includes new futuristic dials, 7-inch multi-media display and newly developed bucket seats.

Under the skin, Corolla Sport models use MacPherson Strut suspension up front and double wishbone suspension in the rear with all-new shock absorbers.

Corolla Sport is also the first front-engine Toyota to equipped with adaptive variable suspension that can instantly adjusts the damping force for each wheel.

The full Corolla Range will be fitted with the second-generation Toyota Safety Sense package including a pre-collision safety system, dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist that displays road signs recognised by the camera on the display.

“The new Corolla Sport continues the Corolla ‘fun to drive’ DNA and integrates connected functions toward the future of mobility”, said Corolla Sport chief engineer, Yoshiki Konishi.

“I want people to experience both the history and the future woven by the Corolla when they drive it.”

Kiwis will be able to drive the new model when it is launched in Q3, 2018, with full range details expected to be announced soon.