Toyota has not too long ago invited worldwide media to preview the upcoming 2026 GR Corolla, a sportier model that joins the ranks of the GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR86, all of which have undergone vital efficiency enhancements in comparison with their commonplace fashions.
This occasion strategically coincided with two main automotive occasions: the F1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka and the Lengthy Seaside Formulation Drift competitors, occurring shortly after.
The extremely anticipated GR Corolla was introduced in a closely camouflaged state, but it showcased some thrilling options, together with enhanced fender and hood vents, together with a brand new rear spoiler. In accordance with Toyota, this mannequin will characteristic elevated torque and distinctive tuning distinct from the usual GR Corolla. The ultimate approval for its readiness for each avenue and monitor use will come from Toyota’s chairman, Akio Toyoda, after he takes it for a check drive.
Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) is the corporate’s official motorsport division, representing its high-performance autos. The division has been concerned in varied motorsport disciplines, together with the FIA World Rally Championships and Tremendous GT. A notable improvement for Toyota was their return to Formulation 1 as a technical companion for the Haas F1 staff, marking their comeback to the sequence after an eight-year absence.
The prototype of the GR Corolla seen on the occasion is predicated on the present 2025 mannequin, which includes a turbocharged 1.6-liter 3-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel-drive system—GR-4—gives a selection between a 6-speed guide transmission with rev-matching or an 8-speed Gazoo Racing automated transmission with paddle shifters. The present mannequin can attain a high pace of 142.9 mph and accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, with expectations that the brand new model will surpass these figures.
Designed for enhanced dealing with, the 2025 GR Corolla is supplied with 235/40 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires on 18-inch solid alloy wheels and maintains a low floor clearance of 5.3 inches, with its weight ranging between 3,274 and three,347 kilos. These specs contribute to a driving expertise that’s characterised as fast, agile, and exhilarating.
Whereas pricing for the 2026 GR Corolla has not but been introduced as it’s nonetheless in improvement, the present 2025 mannequin is priced between $41,985 and $46,650, together with supply, processing, and dealing with charges. Extra manufacturing particulars are anticipated to be revealed within the fall of 2025.
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Story by John Faulkner. Photographs by Toyota.
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