Even though it’s not sold here, the Toyota GR Corolla is one hot hatchback we’d like to try someday. With its 1.6-liter three-pot turbo engine, all-wheel drive, and 300hp output, it set its crosshairs straight at the Honda Civic Type R.
Fast forward to 2024 and the spiciest Corolla gets several significant updates for the 2025 model year. It includes a new look, some chassis tweaks, more torque, and an automatic transmission.
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Yes, that’s right. An eight-speed automatic, to be exact. But those part of the #savethemanuals movement need not worry, the six-speed manual version is still being offered. Toyota insists on calling it the Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, and is said to behave like the manual should the driver opt to use the paddle shifters. The shorter shift ratios should make it a hair quicker than rowing your own, too.
As mentioned, the 2025 update also adds a little more grunt under the hood. Horsepower is still unchanged at 300hp, but torque rises from 370Nm to 400Nm. It’s still less than the Civic Type R, but the extra 30Nm and all-wheel drive could mean the GR Corolla could match, or even outdrag it in the 0-100kph sprint.
The exterior changes aren’t just for aesthetics, says Toyota. The reshaped front bumper is said to offer enhanced aerodynamics and less turbulence. It also includes redesigned side ducts to improve airflow around the flanks. For automatic-equipped models, the bumper also includes an intake for the transmission cooler.
Gazoo Racing went to great lengths explaining the chassis tweaks, but we’ll keep things simple. The 2025 Corolla GR has new suspension mounting points to suppress pitch and roll during acceleration and cornering. There are also stronger bolts and fasteners that claim to make the chassis more rigid, as well as new lower control arms and ball joints.
The US will be the first to get the updated Toyota GR Corolla. Other markets will follow but its availability in Southeast Asia is up in the air.
