Toyota is launching a new, performance-focused-ish version of the Corolla for the 2021 model year, the 2021 Toyota Corolla Apex Edition. Unlike models that meet criteria governed by the team at Toyota Racing Development (TRD), the Corolla is a step in the right direction but doesn’t meet the standards.

The Apex Edition is a package available on Corolla SE and XSE models.

It is powered by the Corolla’s 169-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed manual. Sport driving mode and paddle shifters are standard equipment.

Toyota is enhancing the noise that comes out of the Corolla Apex Edition’s posterior with a sport-tuned exhaust that delivers a throaty growl. The specially developed catback exhaust has a 3.5-inch stainless steel tip.

Just 6,000 of these versions will be sold for the 2021 model years. Of those 120 will have a six-speed manual transmission that replaces the standard automatic.

Models with the CVT achieve 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Six-speed Corollas get 28 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

To make it look the part, the Apex Edition gets a black body kit that is meant to visually impress and increase aerodynamics. There is a black front spoiler, fog light covers, side moldings, and rear diffuser. There are bronze accents as well. Buyers can add a rear trunk aero spoiler.

Under the body is a special set of unique coil springs that lower the vehicle by 0.6 inches. Specially tuned shocks with internal rebound increase the damping force to control body roll. A unique solid stabilizer bar further ups the ante.

New jounce bumpers are meant to ensure that the car’s lower ride height doesn’t hinder ride quality. The changes increase roll stiffness by 47 percent in the front and 33 percent in the rear.

The model’s electronic power steering has been tuned specifically for the model.

The Corolla rides on 18-inch flow-formed cast aluminum gloss black wheels. Buyers can get them wrapped with all-season or summer tires.

Buyers will have their choice of three exterior colors: Cement with a Black Sand Pearl roof, Super White with a Black Sand Pearl roof, and Black Sand Pearl. All models have black mirrors caps, triple J-shaped clearance lamps, LED turn signals and tail lamps with smoked outer lenses.

The Corolla SE Apex Edition will feature premium fabric upholstery, while the XSE Apex Edition has black SofTex-trimmed fabric upholstery. The XSE Apex Edition will also feature heated front seats, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support.

The car has standard Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa compatibility that play out on the car’s 8.0-inch infotainment touch screen. Two USB ports, Bluetooth, and satellite radio are also standard.

Toyota is equipping the model with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which is standard across the Corolla lineup.