The brand new Toyota Corolla TCR car broke cover for the first time at the Autódromo Oscar Cabalén in Argentina, where it was put through its first tests.
The car is being built by Toyota Gazoo Racing Argentina, which has had a successful history in the country’s Súper TC2000 series.
Two tests were completed on 15 and 20 December 2021, as the first part of the homologation procedure which will lead to the car being certified by global TCR rights holder WSC.
The tests were supervised by WSC Technical Department representative Massimo Garbin.
The first person to drive the car was not actually a racing driver, but President of Toyota Argentina and Chief Officer of Toyota Gazoo Racing Latin America, Daniel Herrero.
“The first impression of the Corolla TCR was outstanding,” said Herrero. “The tests we have done with Matías were demanding but positive.
“I liked the engine response, cornering speed and braking. I am proud to have been the very first one to drive it. I can assure that the car has great potential.”
Herrero then handed the car over to Matías Rossi, who has won nine titles in Argentine touring cars in the past fifteen years.
Marcello Lotti, WSC Group President, said he is expecting the car to prove popular around the world.
“I am delighted to see that the Toyota Corolla Sedan TCR has successfully undergone its first test sessions entering in the development phase of the ambitious programme carried on by Toyota Gazoo Racing,” said Lotti.
“The car is beautiful and looking at the results previously achieved by the team in other categories I am sure it will quickly prove its potential.
“I can’t wait to see it taking the track for the actual racing. Considering the appeal of the Toyota brand I believe that soon we will see a lot of Corolla TCR cars racing on the tracks all over the world.”