Confirmation of a previous rumor, Toyota has announced that the GR Corolla will be available with an automatic transmission for the 2025 model year. The hot hatch will also receive mechanical updates that release more torque, suspension upgrades and a new top-of-the-line model.
While the turbo-three still comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, buyers who prefer not to shift gears themselves can specify an eight-speed automatic equipped with what sounds like some pretty advanced technology. Toyota notes that this is not the same transmission it uses in the GR Supra and in the GR86and the software that controls the system analyzes pedal input to determine when to shift up or down.
Regardless of the number of pedals, power comes from a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine rated at 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Power remains the same compared to the 2024 model, but torque increases from 273 — the bump brings the 2025 model GR-Corolla in line with the Morizo Edition modelToyota also added rebound springs at the front and rear to reduce lift from the inside wheels, modified the rear suspension to improve cornering performance, and raised the control arm mounting point to reduce rear downforce under heavy acceleration.
Every 2025 GR Corolla, regardless of trim level or transmission, comes standard with front and rear limited-slip differentials. For 2024, limited-slip differentials were bundled into the base trim’s optional Performance Package and made standard on the Premium and Circuit Edition models.
Visual changes are also part of the 2025 updates, and they’re not just there to let owners tell the world they have the latest model. Toyota has redesigned the front bumper to improve cooling; it had to take into account the radiator, the intercooler, the brake air ducts, the new-for-2025 sub-radiator, and the transmission fluid cooler that comes standard when buyers opt for the eight-speed automatic.
Buyers will have a choice of three trim levels, Core, Premium and Premium Plus respectively. New for 2025, the Premium Plus model sits at the top of the range and includes some features previously found on limited edition models. It comes standard with a carbon fiber roof panel, a hood with functional air vents and a bulge taken from the Morizo Edition, and matte black wheels.
The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla will hit showrooms in late 2024. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date, and every purchase comes with a free one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association plus a free one-day performance driving event.