The GR Corolla is set to come out in October this year, and so far, the sports hatchback promises to be quite enticing. Since it’s based on the regular Corolla model, will it come with the same technology features like Apple CarPlay?

How Apple CarPlay brings the smartphone experience to automobiles

Apple CarPlay is a feature you can access on the infotainment display that enables you to connect to your iPhone and access all your favorite apps. The point is to let you use your phone’s features without having to take your eyes off the road to fiddle with the device. You can either utilize the touchscreen to open up the app you need, or you can use voice control systems to bring up what you want. 

CarPlay is helpful in so many different ways. Apple’s website explains that you can get directions to the destination you’re traveling to, make phone calls, listen to music, and send or receive messages without having the phone in your hand while driving. The app allows you to listen to audiobooks, podcasts, or your favorite playlists by enabling you to access all of them in one place. 

Connection comes in two ways. Vehicles will offer a wired version, where you plug your phone into the automobile to access your apps, or you can connect wirelessly without tethering a cable to your phone. Either way, you can customize your driving experience with the apps you want, much like what Android Auto offers for those who don’t have iPhones.

Does the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla come with Apple CarPlay?

If you own an iPhone, you will be happy to know that the GR Corolla does come with Apple CarPlay. Toyota implemented dual Bluetooth connectivity to access your favorite smartphone apps through its wireless system. A Wi-Fi connection allows you to hook up to 4G with up to five devices so you can play your favorite music playlists or peruse any navigational maps you like using on your phone, provided you have a subscription, according to Toyota’s website.

For those with Android phones, you can access your favorite apps with Android Auto, which also connects wirelessly. This system supports communication, entertainment, navigational, and assistance apps to help make your trip much easier to maneuver, especially in areas you’re unfamiliar with. 

What else will you get with the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla?

The 2023 GR Corolla is a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder producing 300 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission using intelligent technology designed for high torque levels is paired with it. Working alongside the powertrain is the GR-FOUR All-Wheel-Drive system, the brand’s first sports drivetrain in two decades. It offers premium traction sending optimized power to all four wheels without weighing the car down. 

Enhancing the powertrain is a new exhaust system with re-tuned fueling and even more boost, providing an acceleration time of 4.9 seconds for a 0 to 60 mph run. Regarding its suspension, you can get the optional front and rear limited-slip differentials, standard on the Circuit edition. 

You get engine start/stop control, two USB charging ports, lighted foot wells, aluminum sport pedals, a 12-volt auxiliary outlet, a rear console box, and a front console tray as standard equipment. You get power windows, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and automatic climate control for the Circuit Edition trim. Also, it offers a leather-trimmed sports steering wheel and a signed “Morizio” shift knob. 

Since the GR Corolla is a Toyota, you can expect the brand’s Safety Sense 3.0 package to come right along with it. With this set of features, you get a pre-collision system, guardrail detection, and enhanced lane recognition, to name a few. Other features include Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, automatic high beams, road sign assist, rear seat reminder, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Hill Start Assist Control. 

For iPhone users, the 2023 GR Corolla promises to be pretty helpful regarding features you like to use. But, the vehicle offers more for consumers, like a powerful engine, a top-of-the-line traction system, and plenty of safety features.