Toyota has announced exciting updates for the 2025 GR Corolla, injecting even more thrill into the acclaimed hot hatch. Enthusiasts now have a new reason to rejoice as the 2025 model introduces the highly anticipated 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT), alongside performance enhancements and a new premium trim. This evolution broadens the GR Corolla’s appeal, catering to both purist manual drivers and those seeking enhanced accessibility without compromising on driving excitement.
GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission: A New Era of Performance
The headline for the 2025 GR Corolla is undoubtedly the introduction of the 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT). Born from Toyota GAZOO Racing’s relentless pursuit of driving perfection, this new transmission system is engineered to deliver lightning-fast gear changes and optimal gear selection. Unlike conventional automatic transmissions, the DAT in the GR Corolla is meticulously crafted for sporty driving, drawing inspiration from track and rally experiences.
The DAT’s control software is a key differentiator. While traditional automatic transmissions in models like the GR Supra and GR86 rely on vehicle behavior such as g-force and speed to dictate shifts, the GR Corolla’s DAT takes a more intuitive approach. It delicately interprets the driver’s brake and accelerator inputs, proactively anticipating optimal shift points even before changes in vehicle behavior materialize. This innovative system aims to mirror the gear selection prowess of professional drivers, ensuring a driving experience that feels both engaging and responsive.
For drivers who prioritize track performance, the DAT offers a significant advantage. By handling gear changes with precision, it allows drivers to fully concentrate on crucial aspects like braking, acceleration, and steering. This could potentially unlock faster lap times and make the GR Corolla more accessible to a wider range of drivers looking to explore its performance limits on the track.
The GR development team rigorously tested the DAT on circuits and rally courses, fine-tuning its close gear ratios to match the exhilarating performance of the 6-speed manual transmission (6MT). The optimized shift points ensure maximum power and torque delivery to the wheels, translating to energetic acceleration and responsiveness. Even during everyday highway cruising, the 8-speed transmission optimizes engine RPMs, contributing to a refined yet engaging driving experience. Drivers can further tailor the driving dynamics with four distinct modes: Sport, Normal, ECO, and Custom, with the DAT specifically calibrated for peak performance in Sport mode.
Enhanced Power and Handling Dynamics
Beyond the new transmission, the 2025 GR Corolla receives further performance upgrades. All models are powered by the potent G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine, now producing an increased 295 lb.-ft. of torque, up from 273 lb.-ft. This bump in torque amplifies the GR Corolla’s already impressive 300 horsepower at 6,500 rpm, promising even more exhilarating acceleration and responsiveness across the rev range.
To manage the increased power output and the DAT’s thermal demands, an automatic transmission fluid cooler now comes standard on DAT-equipped models. For drivers seeking ultimate cooling performance, an optional sub-radiator is available as a factory-installed option on the Premium grade and standard on the new Premium Plus Grade.
Toyota GAZOO Racing’s dedication to continuous improvement extends to the GR Corolla’s handling. Inspired by their Super Taikyu race car development, engineers focused on enhancing traction during hard cornering. Rebound springs have been added to both the front and rear suspension to effectively minimize inner wheel lift during spirited driving. Furthermore, the rear coils and stabilizers have been refined to improve ground contact response and controllability during turns. The trailing arm mounting point has also been raised to reduce rear squat under acceleration, resulting in improved drive force response and enhanced cornering stability.
At the core of the GR Corolla’s agility is the rally-bred GR-FOUR All-Wheel-Drive system. Developed in collaboration with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team, this system provides exceptional traction and control by intelligently distributing power to each wheel. Drivers can fine-tune the AWD system using a dial, selecting between Normal, Gravel, and Track modes to adjust front/rear torque distribution based on driving conditions and preferences. For 2025, Front and rear Torsen® Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD) become standard across the range, further enhancing cornering prowess and grip by optimizing torque distribution between the left and right wheels on both axles. DAT models also benefit from the addition of launch control*, enabling powerful and consistent off-the-line acceleration.
Refreshed Design and Enhanced Cooling
The 2025 GR Corolla sports a redesigned front bumper, carefully sculpted to optimize the balance between cooling efficiency and aerodynamic performance. This updated design integrates seamlessly with the GR Corolla’s aggressive styling while creating space for essential cooling components like radiators, intercoolers, brake ducts, and the optional sub-radiator and automatic transmission fluid cooler.
The brake ducts have been enhanced for improved airflow, and an air curtain construction has been implemented to channel airflow from the front along the sides of the tires. This reduces turbulence around the tires, contributing to enhanced handling stability by promoting smoother airflow towards the rear of the vehicle. The optional sub-radiator further bolsters engine cooling, extending the GR Corolla’s capability for sustained high-performance driving.
The 2025 GR Corolla model year introduces a streamlined grade structure, featuring three distinct trims: the well-equipped Core Grade, the feature-rich Premium Grade, and the new, top-tier Premium Plus Grade. All grades ride on the TNGA-C platform, known for its low center of gravity and wide stance. The Core and Premium grades feature 18-inch cast alloy wheels, while the Premium Plus grade stands out with 18-inch matte black wheels. Michelin® Pilot Sport® 4 tires (235/40R18) are standard across the range, ensuring optimal grip and handling.
The new Premium Plus grade elevates the GR Corolla experience with standard features previously reserved for special editions, including a lightweight forged carbon fiber roof, a distinctive vented bulge hood, and eye-catching matte black wheels. Exterior color options include Black, Ice Cap, Heavy Metal**, and Supersonic Red, allowing for personalization to match individual styles.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Comprehensive Safety
Inside the cabin, the GR Corolla seamlessly blends sporty aesthetics with advanced technology. An eight-inch digital gauge cluster provides customizable displays, while the center of the dash houses the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an eight-inch touchscreen. This system offers intuitive interaction through sight, touch, and voice activation, featuring Intelligent Assistant via Drive Connect***. Voice commands like “Hey Toyota” activate the system for navigation, point-of-interest searches, audio adjustments, and climate control.
The cloud-based native navigation system, accessible through Drive Connect, provides real-time over-the-air updates for maps and points of interest, integrating Google POI data for enhanced search accuracy. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility come standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system supports dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity and offers an optional Wi-Fi Connect*** subscription, transforming the GR Corolla into an AT&T Hotspot* for up to five devices. Integrated Streaming allows linking personal Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions directly to the vehicle.
The GR Corolla prioritizes safety with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) standard across all grades. This comprehensive suite includes: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beams. These technologies work in concert to enhance driver awareness and provide active safety assistance in various driving scenarios.
Trim Levels and NASA Membership
The 2025 GR Corolla is offered in three compelling grades: Core, Premium, and Premium Plus. The Core Grade provides a strong foundation with GR-logoed fabric sport seats, functional aero vents, 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, aggressive styling, brake cooling ducts, and front and rear limited-slip differentials. The Premium Grade builds upon the Core, adding GR-logoed Brin Naub® suede-trimmed seats, JBL® Premium Audio, wireless charger, dual-zone climate control, heated seats and steering wheel, and parking sensors. The new Premium Plus Grade represents the pinnacle of the lineup, incorporating all Premium Grade features along with the forged carbon fiber roof, bulge hood, sub-radiator, matte black wheels, and Head-Up Display.
Adding even more value, each 2025 GR Corolla purchase includes a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). This membership unlocks benefits such as a free High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted entry to NASA-sanctioned events, encouraging owners to experience the GR Corolla’s full performance potential in a safe and controlled environment.
With the introduction of the DAT, increased torque, enhanced handling, and a new premium grade, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla is poised to solidify its position as a leading hot hatch. While pricing details are anticipated later this year, the announced upgrades and expanded accessibility through the automatic transmission make the 2025 GR Corolla an even more compelling option for driving enthusiasts seeking exhilarating performance and everyday practicality.
