What’s New with the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla?
Looking for a new all-wheel-drive performance car with a manual transmission in the US? Your choices are slim—basically, it’s the Toyota GR Corolla or the Subaru WRX. And with the WRX STI no longer in the mix, the GR Corolla stands out as the more focused, enthusiast-driven option. For 2025, Toyota has given the GR Corolla a fresh look, more power, and, for the first time, an eight-speed automatic transmission. That’s big news for anyone who loves the idea of a rally-bred hatch but needs a bit more daily comfort.
How Does the GR Corolla Stack Up on Price and Specs?
Let’s talk numbers. In Australia, the GR Corolla GTS starts at AU$73,827 ($47,300) for the manual and AU$76,429 ($49,000) for the automatic, including on-road costs. In the US, you’ll find the Core, Premium, and Premium Plus trims, with the Core starting at $38,860 and the Premium Plus topping out at $45,515. The GTS spec in Australia is essentially equivalent to the American Premium Plus.
Under the hood, you get a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine pumping out 296 hp and 296 lb-ft of torque—impressive for its size. All-wheel drive is standard, and you can choose between a six-speed manual or the new eight-speed automatic. Toyota claims a 0-62 mph time of 5.4 seconds for both transmissions, though real-world testing suggests the manual is a smidge quicker off the line.
What’s Changed in the 2025 Design?
Toyota didn’t mess with success but did sharpen things up. The most noticeable update is the new front bumper and grille, giving the GR Corolla an even more aggressive, rally-inspired face. The triple tailpipes at the rear are still there, and in Australia, every car now comes with a forged carbon fiber roof—a feature previously reserved for the Morizo Edition. The result? Pure magic. It looks like a pit bull in sneakers, ready to pounce.
Is the Interior Up to Modern Standards?
Here’s where things get a bit more complicated. The GR Corolla’s cabin feels more premium than the GR Yaris, thanks to soft-touch leather on the dash and doors. But while the Yaris got a significant interior refresh, the Corolla’s cockpit remains largely unchanged. The 8-inch infotainment screen supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the native software is basic—especially compared to rivals like the Honda Civic Type R or VW Golf R.
The sports seats, trimmed in leather and Alcantara, are supportive but sit too high, and the steering wheel is a touch too low. It’s a common complaint among GR fans. On the plus side, you get a crisp 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a solid JBL audio system. Still, if you’re expecting cutting-edge tech, you might feel a bit let down.
How Does the GR Corolla Drive—Manual vs. Automatic?
Let’s get to the good stuff. The GR Corolla’s three-cylinder turbo engine is a riot. It’s got a throaty soundtrack, and the extra torque for 2025 makes it even punchier. The six-speed manual is the enthusiast’s choice: notchy, well-weighted, and equipped with a slick rev-matching function. Launches are more aggressive, and it feels more alive compared to the automatic.
The new eight-speed auto is smooth at low speeds and quick enough when you put your foot down, but it’s not as sharp as the best dual-clutch boxes out there. Toyota claims a 5.2-second sprint to 62 mph with launch control, but most drivers will see times closer to 5.4 seconds. In rolling acceleration, it lags behind rivals like the Civic Type R and Hyundai Elantra N by about half a second.
The all-wheel-drive system is a highlight, offering Normal, Gravel, and Track modes that adjust the power split for different surfaces. On gravel or dirt, the GR Corolla feels like a true rally car—especially with its real handbrake that disconnects the rear wheels. Handbrake turns, donuts, you name it. It’s all possible, and it’s all a blast.
What About Handling and Everyday Comfort?
On the road, the GR Corolla is planted and confidence-inspiring. Australian models come with Yokohama Advan Apex V601 tires, which provide excellent grip in both dry and wet conditions. The suspension is fixed—no adaptive dampers here—which is a bit of a letdown at this price point, especially since most competitors offer adjustable setups. Toyota has struck a decent balance between comfort and performance, but if you’re expecting a magic carpet ride, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Steering feel is good, but not best-in-class, and it can be tricky to sense exactly what the front wheels are up to. You do get three weight settings, though, so you can tailor the feel to your liking.
Are There Any Real Downsides?
No car is perfect, and the GR Corolla has its quirks. The interior, while improved over the Yaris, still feels a generation behind the competition. Fuel economy isn’t stellar for a three-cylinder—expect real-world numbers around 23 mpg for the manual and 21 mpg for the automatic, which is on par with four-cylinder rivals. And while the fixed dampers are well-tuned, adaptive suspension would have been a welcome addition.
The price is another sticking point. The GR Corolla isn’t cheap, and for the money, some buyers might expect a bit more refinement or tech. If you’re after the ultimate in hot hatch engagement, the GR Yaris still edges out its bigger sibling.
Who Should Buy the 2025 GR Corolla?
If you crave a rally-inspired driving experience and want something that stands out from the usual hot hatch crowd, the GR Corolla delivers in spades. It’s fun at any speed, loaded with character, and offers a rare manual all-wheel-drive combo in the US market. The automatic broadens its appeal, making it more accessible for daily driving or city commutes.
The big takeaway? The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Whether you’re carving up backroads or just looking to spice up your daily drive, the GR Corolla proves that a little rally DNA goes a long way.