Toyota GR Corolla Gets Fake Engine Noise
Toyota has announced updates for the Japan-market GR Corolla, expected to reach U.S. models around the 2026 model year.
Along with a stiffer body and a new high-speed air duct, the hot hatch now comes with fake engine noise played through the JBL sound system.
Car and Driver reports that the feature, called Active Sound Control (ASC), uses a subwoofer in the luggage area to deliver engine-like tones
that respond to throttle input, revs, and gear changes.
Key Mechanical Updates
– Stronger body – Toyota added 45 extra feet of structural adhesive across the front end, floor, and rear wheel wells for better rigidity with minimal weight gain.
– High-engine-speed air duct – Opens at high RPM to pull cooler air from the front grille, helping maintain power during aggressive driving.
– Active Sound Control – Toyota has added a system that plays artificial engine sounds through the JBL speakers.
The idea is to give the cabin a sportier feel, and the driver can raise, lower, or completely switch off the volume whenever they like.
These tweaks come on top of what already makes the GR Corolla exciting: a 300-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine, a six-speed manual transmission, and a rally-style all-wheel-drive setup.
Why Add Fake Engine Noise?
Car makers use fake engine noise for a few practical reasons:
- Quieter cabins. Modern cars are built with better insulation and must meet strict noise limits, which naturally muffle the exhaust. A bit of synthetic sound brings some excitement back.
- More driver feedback. Extra sound can make the car feel livelier and more responsive, even when you’re just cruising around town.
- Personal choice. Systems like this let you pick different sound levels or turn it off if you prefer the natural engine note.
Kelley Blue Book points out that many performance cars now use similar technology.
What Enthusiasts Are Saying
The reaction is split:
- Pros: Adds a bit of drama without breaking noise laws, and you decide how loud it gets.
- Cons: Some purists think it hides the real character of the engine, and a constant artificial tone can get tiring on long drives.
The GR Corolla’s turbo three already makes a distinctive growl, so many fans feel it doesn’t really need the extra help.
My Take
Because the feature can be turned off, fake engine noise isn’t a deal-breaker. Toyota lets drivers choose between the natural exhaust sound or a bit of added excitement.
If you want a deeper dive into the car itself, check out this Toyota GR Corolla review for more details on its performance and features.
Final Thoughts
Whether you love it or hate it, the new fake engine noise shows how automakers are trying to balance modern noise rules with the fun of driving a sporty car. At least Toyota gives you the option to decide what you want to hear.
FAQs About Toyota GR Corolla Fake Engine Noise
Q1: What is the Toyota GR Corolla Fake Engine Noise feature?
The Toyota GR Corolla comes with an Active Sound Control (ASC) system that plays synthetic engine sounds through the JBL speakers to make the cabin feel sportier. Drivers can adjust the volume or turn it off completely.
Q2: Why did Toyota add fake engine noise to the GR Corolla?
Modern cars are built with better sound insulation and must meet strict noise regulations, which reduce natural exhaust sound. The fake engine noise adds excitement and keeps the sporty driving feel alive.
Q3: Can I disable the fake engine noise in the GR Corolla?
Yes. Toyota allows full control over the ASC system, so you can increase, decrease, or completely turn off the fake sound anytime.
Q4: Does the fake engine noise affect the car’s performance?
No. The Active Sound Control system is purely for audio enhancement and does not change engine output or driving dynamics.
Q5: Is fake engine noise common in other performance cars?
Yes. According to Kelley Blue Book, many modern performance cars, including models from BMW, Ford, and Porsche, use similar systems to enhance cabin sound.
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