The Toyota Corolla is a benchmark Toyota car. Now, we have the 2021 Toyota Corolla presenting with some new trims, or ‘grades,’ as the Toyota press videos call them. There is an all-new special edition called the Apex, as well as the spunky hot hatch Corolla.

In fact, with a reputation for being a basic point A to point B reliable commuter, the 2021 Toyota Corolla might surprise you. The bronze-tipped Apex edition is certainly a departure from what we generally expect from the trusty Corolla.

The 2021 Corolla is more than just reliable

Yes, the Toyota Corolla is famed for is reliability. They are known to drive far into high mileage territory. Corollas rolling past 100, 200, and even 300 thousand miles on the odometer are not unheard of by any stretch of the imagination. For instance, Consumer Reports has given the Toyota Corolla an overwhelming amount of 5 out of 5 reliability rating over the years.

Additionally, the Toyota brand earned numerous awards from J.D.Power. J.D. Power bestowed Performance as well as Quality Awards in the last several years of production. However, the Corolla isn’t just reliable. For 2020, the Toyota Corolla received major style updates. Now, the 2021 Toyota Corolla is getting some new trim levels. Plus a cool special edition.

The hatchback is exciting, but it’s not the only standout

The new Toyota Corolla hatchback looks sporty and aggressive. it features extra cargo space. Additionally, the 2021 Toyota Corolla hatchback is serious inspiration for something else looming on the horizon. The 2022 Toyota Corolla hot hatch earned the GR badging. This 2022 release may be worth waiting for if you are super into the Corolla hatchback.

As cool as the 2021 Toyota Corolla hatchback looks, the Corolla sedan Apex edition might surprise you enough to steer you away from the hatch. For instance, you see the sport-tuned exhaust on the Apex Corolla. Plus there are bronze accents both on the exterior and the interior.

The 2021 Apex edition is surprisingly cool

In an effort to prove that the Corolla isn’t just a boring commuter, Toyota made a big push with the 2020 redesign. The 2021 Toyota Corolla follows that trend. The Apex edition makes you rethink any predisposition toward the Toyota Corolla.

According to Toyota, only 6,000 will hit production. This will enhance the limited edition value of the Apex Corolla. Additionally, this is one of the Corollas available with a 6-speed manual transmission. If you want a reliable Toyota Corolla but you want something that is also special and fun to drive, the bronze and black accented Apex edition might be your dream Corolla.

The TNGA platform

One thing that Toyota’s cars are known for is the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform. The 2021 Toyota Corolla is built on this platform, and that is part of what makes it so reliable. But what is the TNGA platform?

According to Toyota, “TNGA is a program of structural innovation, starting with changing basic architecture of vehicles. Through TNGA, we are completely remaking the powertrain unit (engine, transmission, HEV unit) and basic frames (chassis).” It contributes to Toyota’s effort to make “ever-better cars.” Additionally, it gives the Japanese carmaker a great base for cars like the Corolla.