The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla can now be had with an automatic transmission
If there’s one model from Toyota that we really want to see in Philippine showrooms, that definitely has to be the GR Corolla. Over in North America, the performance version of the iconic nameplate gets a slew of performance updates.
PHOTO FROM TOYOTA.
Starting with what’s under the hood, powering the Toyota GR Corolla remains a 1.6-liter turbocharged G16E-GTS Inline 3-cylinder gasoline engine. This still produces 304 horsepower but with an increased 400 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or…
…a new 8-speed automatic transmission. Known as a Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT). This offers quicker shifting performance by delicately sensing the way the driver steps on the brakes and operates the accelerator. This will also allow drivers, specifically novice drivers, to focus more on acceleration, braking, and steering maneuvers in order to perform like professional drivers on track.
PHOTO FROM TOYOTA.
Design-wise, the GR Corolla receives an updated front bumper design for better cooling and aerodynamics. The redesign also makes room for a radiator, intercooler, brake ducts, an available sub-radiator, and an automatic transmission fluid cooler (for the DAT-equipped variant).
PHOTOS FROM TOYOTA.
A new Premium Plus variant is also now available, set apart from lower variants by a forged carbon fiber roof, bulge hood with functional air vents, sub radiator, matte black 18-inch alloy wheels, a heads-up display, and Brin Naub Suede seat trim with red stitching and the GR logo.
Those are in addition to standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch customizable digital instrument cluster, sports-tuned suspension, Active Noise Control, Active Sound Control, and Front and Rear Limited Slip Torsen Differentials and red GR calipers.
PHOTO FROM TOYOTA.
There are really no signs of the Toyota GR Corolla coming to our market anytime soon. Sources also say it’ll be too expensive if launched here. In the meantime, we’ll just have to make do with grey market units.
