Toyota Unveils the GR Corolla 2025: An Enhanced Hot Hatchback
Toyota has just officially introduced the GR Corolla 2025, with a focus on upgrading the engine, suspension, and transmission for a more sporty driving experience.
The 2025 model is equipped with an all-new 8-speed automatic transmission, dubbed the Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT). This is a significant step forward, offering a new choice alongside the standard 6-speed manual transmission. The DAT transmission is developed based on Toyota’s racing experience and has been successfully applied to the GR Yaris earlier this year.
The DAT transmission is specially designed to deliver a sporty driving feel and responsive performance. It features gear ratios similar to the 6-speed manual, maintaining the driving characteristics loved by GR Corolla enthusiasts. Additionally, the transmission is equipped with a dedicated cooler to ensure stable performance even under demanding driving conditions.
Another notable feature accompanying the automatic DAT is the Launch Control system. This is a standard feature on all 2025 GR Corolla versions equipped with the DAT transmission. Launch Control optimizes the vehicle’s launch and acceleration from a standstill, ensuring it achieves the best possible performance.
The GR Corolla 2025 continues to use the familiar 1.6L 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, but Toyota engineers have fine-tuned it for higher performance. While the maximum power remains at 300 horsepower, the peak torque has been increased to 400 Nm, a significant boost over the previous version.
The exhaust system is designed to minimize back pressure, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently across the rev range. It is also tuned to produce a distinctive sound, reflecting the sporty style that Toyota aims to deliver with the GR Corolla.
Toyota’s engineers have also improved the GR Corolla’s handling by refining the suspension system. A Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD) is standard on all versions of the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla.
Additionally, the front and rear sway bars have been optimized to minimize body roll during hard cornering, ensuring the GR Corolla 2025 maintains stability and precision in all driving situations.
The GR Corolla 2025 sports a redesigned front bumper, not just for a more aggressive and sporty look but also for improved aerodynamics.
The grille has been widened, with larger air intakes to enhance engine and brake cooling. The sharp and angular lines on the bumper also contribute to the car’s overall sporty aesthetic.
In addition to the front bumper, the GR Corolla 2025 receives several other aerodynamic improvements. The side skirts have been refined to reduce air resistance, while the rear spoiler has been redesigned to generate better downforce at high speeds. These enhancements not only make the GR Corolla 2025 look more athletic but also significantly improve its aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to its overall enhanced driving performance.
In the US market, the Toyota GR Corolla 2025 is available in three trim levels: GR Corolla Core, GR Corolla Premium, and GR Corolla Premium Plus. The Premium Plus version stands out with its exclusive features, including a carbon fiber roof, a hood with air intakes, matte black wheels, a HUD display, and GR-branded suede and leather-trimmed seats. Pricing for this model has not yet been announced by the Japanese automaker.
Thai Son (Tuoitrethudo)