Snapshot

Toyota re-entered the sports car market by partnering with Subaru on the GR86 and BMW on the Supra. However, the GR Corolla, developed independently. GR, short for Gazoo Racing—Toyota’s motorsports division—turns the 2025 GR Corolla into a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive version of the standard hatchback. While it shares its name and silhouette with a common commuter car, the GR Corolla is a completely different machine. The 1.6-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine now delivers 221 kW and 400 Nm—30 Nm more than the previous manual GR Corolla. With launch control, this auto version is expected to hit 0-100 kph in under 5 seconds, compared to the manual’s 5.3 seconds. Truly, the Toyota GR Automatic Unleashed its full potential.

Pros:

• Punchy turbocharged acceleration
• All-wheel drive offers exceptional grip
• Engaging and fun-to-drive character
• Comes with a decent number of standard advanced driver aids

Cons:

• Smaller cargo space than other hatchbacks.
• Interior plastics feel cheap for the price
• High levels of interior noise

Design and Features

Interior

The GR Corolla is an affordable compact car with a sporty, high-quality interior. It has a sleek design for better visibility and user-friendly features like easy-to-open doors. The front cabin is cozy, but the rear is cramped, especially in the Morizo Edition which doesn’t have back seats. For more comfort in the back, consider options like the Civic Type R or Volkswagen Golf R. However, the Toyota GR brings a new level of sportiness.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla has seen upgrades to its ride and handling, making it a more refined and responsive performance vehicle. Key enhancements include increased torque (up to 295 lb-ft), improved suspension with new rebound springs to reduce wheel lift, and optimized rear coils and stabilizers for better control. Additionally, front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials are now standard, further enhancing traction and cornering capabilities. These changes, along with the introduction of the Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT), ensure a smoother and more dynamic driving experience​. With the Toyota GR Automatic Unleashed on the streets, drivers will feel the difference.

Exterior

Design & Profile: The 2025 GR Corolla boasts a bold, aggressive design with sharp lines and a dynamic stance. Muscular fenders, a low roofline, and wide track enhance its athletic look, emphasizing performance and sportiness.

Front End & Rear Design: The front features a redesigned bumper with large brake ducts and a striking grille flanked by sleek LED headlights. The rear showcases a prominent diffuser, trio of exhaust outlets, sharp taillights, and a subtle spoiler for improved aerodynamics and a sporty appeal. The Toyota GR Automatic has been Unleashed in its most striking form yet.

Wheels & Roof Options: Lightweight alloy wheels enhance both appearance and performance, while the available forged carbon fiber roof reduces weight and lowers the centre of gravity, reserved for higher trims like Premium Plus.

Aerodynamics & Paint Options: Aerodynamic efficiency is achieved through a functional rear diffuser, front air curtains, and side skirts, with the car’s overall design optimizing airflow. Bold paint colours, including classic and unique shades, highlight the GR Corolla’s sporty nature.

Judgement

The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla is a standout in the hot hatch segment, offering a blend of practicality, performance, and aggressive styling. With its powerful turbocharged engine, enhanced handling dynamics, and sporty design elements like a forged carbon fiber roof and aggressive front and rear design, it delivers a thrilling driving experience. Despite sharing its name with the standard Corolla, the GR version is a completely different beast, built for enthusiasts who crave performance without sacrificing everyday usability. The Toyota GR Automatic Unleashed its true potential in this model​.

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