Toyota GR Corolla Returns As Pace Car For 2024 NASA National Championships

The GR Corolla MORIZO will once again serve as the official pace car at the NASA 2024 Championships, held from September 5-8 at Utah Motorsports Campus. This high-performance vehicle, known for its rally-inspired origins and 300 horsepower turbocharged engine, continues to captivate sports car enthusiasts.

In 2024, the GR Corolla will lead 400 drivers competing in 25 classes on the challenging 3.048-mile Utah Motorsports Campus Outer Course. This track features a demanding 15-turn layout with several elevation changes, promising thrilling competition for drivers and spectators alike.

GR Corolla: 2024 NASA Pace Car

The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition will be adorned in Toyota GAZOO Racing red, white, and black graphics livery. "At Toyota, we have a passion for performance and motorsports, and it’s an honour to support racing enthusiasts by pacing all NASA Championship races," said Mike Tripp, Group Vice President Toyota Marketing.

Toyota GAZOO Racing's involvement extends beyond the pace car role. Through a partnership with NASA, every new GR sports car purchase includes a complimentary one-year NASA membership and a free track day at a NASA High Performance Driving Event. This initiative introduces sports car owners to performance driving safely.

"The relationship between Toyota and NASA has been an incredible way to introduce sports car owners to the world of performance driving in a safe and responsible manner," said Jeremy Croiset, Chief Executive Officer of NASA. The event promises exciting races that can be viewed online at www.DriveNASA.com.

Upcoming Features of the 2025 GR Corolla

The 2025 GR Corolla will debut in showrooms this winter with significant performance upgrades. It will feature an available 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) for optimal gear selection and faster shifts. The turbocharged G16E-GTS engine remains but now offers increased torque of 295 lb.-ft., nearly a 10 percent boost from previous models.

This model also includes Front and rear Torsen® Limited-Slip Rear Differentials (LSD) for better cornering performance and grip. Additional enhancements include launch control on DAT models for powerful acceleration, improved suspension for better ground contact response, and a redesigned front bumper for enhanced cooling and aerodynamics.

New Grades Available

The 2025 GR Corolla will be offered in three grades: Core Grade, Premium Grade, and the new Premium Plus Grade. The Premium Plus Grade includes features like a carbon fibre roof, vented bulge hood, and matte black wheels that were popular in previous special editions.

Toyota has been part of the U.S. cultural fabric for over 65 years. The company employs more than 49,000 people in the U.S., contributing to the design, engineering, and assembly of over 34 million vehicles across nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota's tenth plant in North Carolina will start producing automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.

Toyota's Commitment to Sustainability

Toyota is committed to advancing sustainable mobility through its Toyota and Lexus brands. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 30 electrified options. The company's Driving Possibilities initiative aims to create innovative educational programs within underserved communities near its U.S. operating sites.

The upcoming championships promise excitement both on-track and online as fans can tune in to watch some of the best amateur racing in the country. The continued collaboration between Toyota and NASA highlights their dedication to promoting safe performance driving experiences.

Article Published On: Wednesday, September 4, 2024, 0:02 [IST]
Read more on: #global #toyota
Notifications
Settings
Clear Notifications
Notifications
Use the toggle to switch on notifications
  • Block for 8 hours
  • Block for 12 hours
  • Block for 24 hours
  • Don't block
Gender
Select your Gender
  • Male
  • Female
  • Others
Age
Select your Age Range
  • Under 18
  • 18 to 25
  • 26 to 35
  • 36 to 45
  • 45 to 55
  • 55+