Toyota is reviving a blast from the past with its latest special edition Corolla. The newly announced 2025 Toyota Corolla FX pays homage to the iconic 1987 Corolla FX-16, a beloved hot hatch that made waves in the automotive world. Just like its predecessor, the 2025 Corolla FX Edition is designed for performance enthusiasts who crave a touch of nostalgia.
Visually, the 2025 Corolla FX Edition stands out from its counterparts. It sports a rear spoiler, satin-black 18-inch alloys with black lug nuts, and black badges and mirror caps. Additionally, every model will feature a Midnight Black roof, but buyers can choose from two other colors – Ice Cap (white) and Underground (gray) – which add a striking two-tone effect.
While the 2025 FX may not offer groundbreaking advancements in terms of its powertrain, it shares some similarities with the legendary FX-16. Both models are equipped with a 2.0-liter engine featuring dual overhead cams and 16 valves. Although the 169 horsepower and 151 lb.-ft. of torque may not be record-breaking numbers, they still offer a spirited driving experience reminiscent of the original Corolla FX-16.
To enhance the driving dynamics of the 2025 FX, Toyota has tuned the steering for a sportier feel. The inclusion of lowering springs also contributes to a lower center of gravity, further enhancing performance on the road. This special edition model isn’t just about looks – it’s designed to deliver an engaging driving experience that harks back to the autocross glory days of the original FX-16.
Inside the cabin, the 2025 FX boasts Moonstone sport fabric seats with eye-catching orange stitching. Toyota has also equipped this special edition Corolla with its latest infotainment system – a generous 10.5-inch touchscreen display that comes as standard equipment. This technology upgrade marks a significant milestone for the Corolla lineup, as the FX is the first model to feature such a large infotainment screen. Additionally, the FX incorporates the 7-inch multi-info display and wireless charging pad found in the XSE trim level.
While it may seem unexpected to revive the FX name for a sedan instead of a hatchback, Toyota has its reasons. The original Corolla FX-16 was a hot hatch, loved by performance enthusiasts around the globe. While the U.S. market only received one generation of the FX, Japan enjoyed three generations of the spirited hatchback. The quirky name “FX” is actually an abbreviation of “FF 2-box,” which refers to a front-wheel-drive car with a two-box form. A sedan, technically speaking, falls into the category of a three-box form. However, since the number isn’t explicitly mentioned in the name, Toyota has chosen to embrace the legacy of the FX moniker without adhering strictly to its original form.
In conclusion, the 2025 Toyota Corolla FX Edition is a visually striking and performance-focused tribute to the legendary Corolla FX-16. Though it may not break new ground in terms of powertrain technology, it stays true to its predecessor’s spirit with its design cues and driving dynamics. With its unique combination of nostalgia and modern features, the 2025 FX aims to capture the hearts of enthusiasts looking for a dose of sportiness in their daily commute.
