Toyota GAZOO Racing (TGR) has unveiled the evolved GR Corolla for the Japanese market, building upon the already impressive performance of its predecessor. Leveraging insights gained from motorsports activities, including the Super Taikyu Series, the evolved GR Corolla boasts improvements in high-speed cornering, acceleration, and cooling performance. A key addition is the newly developed 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (GR-DAT), also featured in the evolved GR Yaris. Developed with input from professional race drivers, evaluation drivers, and Toyota Master Driver Morizo, the evolved GR Corolla aims to deliver an engaging driving experience, whether pushed to its limits or used for daily driving. Orders are being accepted from February 4th, with the official launch scheduled for March 3rd. This model mirrors the one announced in the USA on August 2, 2024, but with specific Japanese market adaptations.
The evolved GR Corolla’s enhancements are designed to improve overall performance. The improvements derived from motorsports experience translate to a more refined and capable track and street car. The new GR-DAT 8-speed automatic transmission offers a new dimension to the GR Corolla’s driving dynamics.
The Japanese market model offers the optional SPORT package, focusing on a sportier and more premium interior. This package includes exclusive semi-bucket seats with GR logos, an Ultrasuede®-upholstered three-spoke steering wheel, an Ultrasuede®-upholstered shift knob (for both the 8AT and 6MT versions), a manual parking brake with an Ultrasuede®-upholstered grip, red three-point ELR seat belts, and cast-black trim.
A notable feature is the “Circuit Mode,” a service designed to unlock the car’s full potential on designated circuits and facilities in Japan. Utilizing GPS location and a special app, Circuit Mode enables features such as anti-lag control (with off, weak, mild, and strong options), an increased speed limiter, maximized cooling fan output, and a shift timing indicator (with gear ratio-linked or timer display options).
TGR is also offering upgrade parts sets for existing GR Corolla owners, allowing them to experience some of the evolutions found in the new model. These upgrades are planned to be available from Summer 2025 and will include a bolt set with improved fastening rigidity (Step 1) for improved straight-line stability and steering feel, and a suspension set (Step 2) for improved cornering performance.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (including consumption tax) are ¥5,980,000 for the GR Corolla RZ with the 8AT and ¥5,680,000 for the 6MT version.
The main specifications of the evolved GR Corolla RZ are as follows: Length: 4,410 mm; Width: 1,850 mm; Height: 1,480 mm; Wheelbase: 2,640 mm; Weight: 1,500 kg (8AT) / 1,480 kg (6MT); Engine: 1.6L in-line 3-cylinder turbocharged (G16E-GTS); Max. output: 224 kW (304 PS) / 6,500 rpm; Max. torque: 400 Nm (40.8 kgf･m) / 3,250-4,600 rpm; Transmission: 8-speed GR-DAT (8AT) or 6-speed manual (6MT); Driveline: GR-FOUR 4WD; Suspension: MacPherson strut (front), Double wishbone (rear); Brakes: Ventilated discs (front and rear).
Summary/Specs List:
- Model: 2025 Toyota GR Corolla
- Engine: 1.6L Turbocharged 3-cylinder (G16E-GTS)
- Transmission: 8-speed GR-DAT (8AT) or 6-speed manual (6MT)
- Driveline: GR-FOUR 4WD
- Key Features: Circuit Mode, Optional SPORT Package, Upgraded parts availability for existing owners
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: Toyota
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
