2025 Toyota GR Corolla Gets Optional 8-Speed Automatic Transmission and Track-Proven Upgrades
As we expected, after introducing it into GR Yaris car Earlier this year, Toyota added an eight-speed automatic transmission option to the GR Corolla hot hatch. The new car comes with a comprehensive upgrade for the 2025 GR Corolla model that brings more torque, refined styling and other new features.
That car was big news. Toyota called it the Gazoo Racing Direct Drive Automatic Transmission (DAT) and it is a different unit than what is found in GR86 And Above. Instead of sensing vehicle behavior like speed and deceleration, Toyota says DAT’s software “subtly senses how the driver applies the brakes and operates the accelerator,” so it can “predict the optimal shift timing even before the vehicle’s behavior changes.” That means shifting happens the way a professional driver would, so amateurs can focus on steering and braking. Toyota’s professional drivers helped develop:
DAT also allows the driver to focus more on acceleration/braking and steering, so non-professional drivers can drive faster if they decide to hit the track. This opens up the possibility for more drivers to enjoy sports car driving.
The Toyota GR development team used rally and racing courses as a basis for establishing the DAT’s close-ratio gearing. They optimized the DAT’s shift points, creating a 6MT-like gear ratio that maximizes engine power and torque delivered to the wheels, allowing for optimal performance. Even normal highway driving feels energetic, thanks to the eight-speed transmission that optimizes RPM at cruising speeds.
The GR Corolla’s turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder still makes 300 horsepower, but torque has increased from 273 pound-feet to 295, which is Morizo version is discontinued. Automatic-equipped cars get a transmission fluid cooler and auxiliary radiator as a new factory-installed option on higher trim levels. New front and rear rebound springs “suppress inside wheel lift during aggressive dynamic driving,” a tweak made after testing at Fuji Speedway. The rear coilovers and stabilizers have been upgraded for better cornering control, and the rear trailing arm mounting point has been raised to reduce rearward lean under acceleration. Front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials are now standard on all GR Corollas and automatic models with launch control.
Toyota has redesigned the front bumper for better aerodynamics and cooling, with larger openings at the corners and air dams just ahead of the front wheel arches. I think it looks even better, more like the WRC rally cars the GR Corolla takes inspiration from. Inside, Toyota has added darker finishes, but that’s about it. Automatic models get paddle shifters, of course.
Like last year, Corolla GR Available in basic Core and more luxurious Premium trims, there are no changes to the features on offer. But there is a new Premium Plus trim that includes some features from the previous Circuit and Morizo trims, as well as other new items on the car. The Premium Plus trim gets matte black wheels, a forged carbon fiber hood, and a bulging hood with functional vents, along with an auxiliary radiator that is optional on the Premium trim. The Premium Plus trim also adds a head-up display and suede upholstery with red stitching throughout the interior.
The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla will arrive in U.S. dealerships this winter, with pricing yet to be announced. Don’t expect it to cost much more. 2024 modelPricing starts at $37,195, with the Premium Plus trim costing around $45,000. Every 2025 GR Corolla will come with a one-year membership to the National Sports Auto Association (NASA), which gives owners a free HPDE and discounts on NASA events.
