The Toyota GR Corolla’s engine is already a formidable powerplant. The stock 1.6-liter G16E-GTS turbo three-cylinder can churn out over 700 horsepower, a figure that can be further amplified with aftermarket modifications. Now, the renowned tuning brand, HKS, is stepping in with their unique offering-GR Corolla crate engines. These engines, featuring larger, stroked motors, will incorporate cutting-edge technology inspired by Formula One, setting them apart in the aftermarket tuning scene. HKS’s website has information about the project, such as how it changed a prototype to make the “complete engine” it plans to sell in the future. To start, HKS uses a custom-made crankshaft so that the shop can take out the engine’s balance shaft. It has a longer stroke (95.7 millimeters instead of 89.7 millimeters), which makes the power higher across all rpm ranges. For the engine to have a total displacement of 1,746cc, the cylinder bores were made 0.5 mm bigger. People say that displacement can’t be replaced, and this will make the turbo work better. Lowering the compression ratio from 10.5:1 to 10:1 also improves the boost tolerance. HKS uses swirl-patterned, capped, molybdenum—and nickel-plated valves to achieve the best combustion. Then, a phosphor bronze alloy that is better at conducting electricity will replace the valve guides and seats. To avoid hot spots, the rough sides of the combustion chamber will be smoothed out. Of course, these aren’t the only big changes that will happen to HKS’s GR Corolla engines. One of the most intriguing aspects of HKS’s new crate engines is the adoption of the pre-chamber ignition method, a technology used in some Maseratis and F1 engines. Also known as turbulent jet firing, this method involves igniting a mixture of rich air and fuel in a small spot near the cylinder and injecting it into the cylinder multiple times, where the mixture is less dense. This innovative approach enhances the combustion process, enabling faster and more complete fuel burn, and ultimately, more power from the same amount of fuel. Of course, the big draw is electricity, which HKS still needs to look into. It says that it will offer customers different injector sizes for its crate motors, but the exact number is up to them. I’m going to bet $20 that one of these crazy 1,000-horsepower cars will win. Are you game?
