2025 Toyota GR Corolla

Performance

The GR Corolla features a 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that puts out 300 horsepower like the 2024 but now has 295 lb-ft of torque and an increase of 22 lb-ft to match the 2023 Morizo special edition. All power is routed through a 6-speed manual transmission or a brand new 8-speed Direct Automatic Transmission to the ground via a sophisticated and racey GR-FOUR all-wheel drive system.

The AWD system was developed with the help of the Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team and features multiple driving modes, including Normal, Gravel, and Track. In Normal mode, the GR Corolla has a front and rear torque split of 60/40, whereas Gravel mode gives a perfect 50/50 for optimum traction. Finally, Track mode varies the amount of torque from 60/40 to 30/70 for different driving situations around racetracks.

For the first time on the GR Corolla, cars equipped with the DAT will now have the ability to utilize Launch Control for the best 0-60 and ¼-mile launches. In testing, Car and Driver found the 2024 GR Corolla was able to get from 0-60 in just 4.9 seconds while blasting through the ¼-mile in 13.3 seconds at 105 mph. That’s going beyond normal hot hatch territory and into the bonafide sports car world. There has been no performance testing yet on the new 2025 model with extra torque, the 8-speed DAT, as well as the new launch control.

The 8-speed DAT can also be optioned with an extra Automatic Transmission Fluid cooler, which helps keep fluid temperatures lower for track use.

While the 6-speed manual is unchanged, the clutch has been upgraded to give drivers a quicker clutch pedal feeling. Toyota says this aids with “quick starts and half-clutch operation.” Drivers can also turn on rev-matching by pushing a button in front of the shifter.

All 2025 GR Corolla models feature standard Torsen limited-slip differentials, both front and rear, which give drivers ultimate control when pushing their cars in corners, whether on back roads or the great racetracks of America.

New and improved brake ducts help bring in air more efficiently to keep the brakes cooler than before. An air curtain allows more air to flow over the top of the front tires, keeping turbulent air around the tire to a minimum and aiding in aerodynamics. A sub-radiator can also be optioned to help cool the engine during prolonged performance driving.

One performance piece that may go unnoticed for some but is vital to the added excellent drivability of the GR Corolla is a redesigned rear trailing arm mounting point, which has been raised to minimize rear-end squat during hard takeoffs. It will also make the rear feel more planted. The rear coils and stabilizers have also been tweaked to help create better contact with the ground during all types of driving.

Premium Plus trim levels retain some features from the previous special edition models, including the forged carbon fiber roof, vented bulge hood, and matte black wheels.

Exterior

The GR Corolla is exclusively offered as a 5-door hatchback. While it is called a Corolla and shares its overall size and shape with the Corolla hatchback, the GR model is unmistakably a sports car with its wider fender flares, freshly designed aggressive front bumper with an enlarged grille, and a roof spoiler. Everything on the GR Corolla has been meticulously designed for pure function. One of the more unique exterior features is the three separate exhaust tips for a triple exhaust system made of stainless steel, reducing back pressure and providing an intoxicating sound to the ears.

Core models are available in Ice Cap, Black, and Supersonic Red, a $475 option. Premium and Premium Plus models also add the option for Heavy Metal, another $475 optional paint color.

Interior

While the Corolla is a hot hatch, it is still a usable, everyday hatchback at heart. It is able to comfortably seat 5, with all seats lined in Alcantara and leather. The front buckets are very well bolstered and form-fitting while still maintaining comfort. All trim levels feature GR stitched into the front headrests for added exclusivity.

Even though the interior is a sporty place to be, it still features numerous creature comforts, such as heated seats and heated leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Technology

Standard technology in the GR Corolla is a 12.3-inch multi-information display for the driver, which gives the most important and relevant information about your car while driving or on the racetrack. The center of the digital gauge cluster features a tachometer showing vehicle speed and gearing information. To the left and right is information about turbo boost, a G meter, and fuel range. Premium Plus trims have a Head-Up Display as standard.

A center-mounted 8-inch touchscreen display allows wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and with an active Drive Connect account, you can get a cloud-based turn-by-turn navigation. There is a trial period for Drive Connect.

An 8-speaker, 800-watt JBL premium sound system helps to make your daily drives much better sounding with your favorite music, radio shows, or podcasts.

Cars equipped with automatic transmissions will receive a free, one-year trial of Remote Control. This app-based feature allows for remote unlocking, vehicle status notifications, a guest driver monitor, and remote start.

Safety

All GR Corolla models come with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Automatic High Beams (AHB).

For buyers who select the 8-speed DAT, the GR Corolla will add Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Proactive Driving Assist (PDA). PDA uses the vehicle’s camera and radar to apply the brakes and steering support when a vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist is in front of it. The system will even lightly apply the brakes when going into curves.