Toyota GR Corolla 2025 facelift – new 8-speed automatic transmission, improved chassis, new front bumper for increased cooling
Eight months after the disclosure GR Yaris upgradeToyota has brought many of the same updates to its bigger sibling, Corolla GRThe facelift brings a fresh new design and a number of performance-oriented additions, including a new transmission option paired with a manual transmission.
The company’s five-door hot hatch retains the same G16E-GTS 1.6-litre turbocharged and direct-injected three-cylinder engine. But while power remains the same at 304PS at 6,500rpm, peak torque has increased by 30Nm to 400Nm, available between 3,250 and 4,600rpm. Those are the same figures as the latest GR Yaris, and indeed Lexus LBX Morizo RR.
The cars are also equipped with a new 8-speed Gazoo Racing Direct automatic transmission, which has been developed to provide the fastest possible downshifts and predict the appropriate gear selection based on braking and throttle input, rather than just the vehicle’s behaviour – resulting in gearshifts that Toyota says are similar to those of a professional racer.
The transmission also features a heat-resistant clutch material, a new torque control system and a compact, responsive linear solenoid. A new launch control function has also been added to automatic models to optimise acceleration when setting off. Of course, purists can still opt for the faithful six-speed manual (now with a new dual-mass flywheel) with automatic rev matching.
Regardless of which version you choose, the GR Corolla retains its trademark GR-Four all-wheel drive system. As on the GR Yaris, its operation has been tweaked – the torque split now increases from 60:40 front-rear in Normal mode to 50:50 in Gravel mode (previously 30:70 in Sport), while Track sees the torque split vary from 60:40 to 30:70 depending on driving conditions (previously locked at 50:50). Front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, previously only available on the Circuit version, are now standard.
The upcoming GR Corolla doesn’t really want much in the way of driving dynamics, but Toyota still saw fit to improve the chassis further. Rebound front and rear springs prevent the inside wheel from lifting up during hard cornering to improve traction, while the rear springs and anti-roll bars have been retuned to improve ground contact and cornering control.
Meanwhile, the rear swingarm mounting point has been raised to reduce rearward lean under acceleration. This prevents the vehicle’s stance from changing too much, increasing acceleration force and providing more stability when cornering.
Providing a visual indication of the extensive redesign under the skin is a redesigned front bumper, which features a similar design to the GR Yaris. Larger corner air intakes and the removal of fog lights help improve cooling, particularly the transmission oil cooler on the cars.
An additional radiator, standard on top-spec models and optional elsewhere, provides additional engine cooling. There are also new brake ducts and air curtains that direct air around the front wheels, reducing turbulence in the wheel wells and increasing handling stability.
There are no changes to the rest of the exterior, which still features a bulging vented hood, heavily flared fenders with front vents, a carbon-fiber hood, a large rear spoiler, and a large rear diffuser with the signature triple exhaust. Inside, the GR Corolla gets a darker finish on the trim (previously silver) and switches (previously chrome) for a sportier look.
There is currently no word on when the GR Corolla will be available in Malaysia, including pricing; the pre-facelift model currently retails for RM355,000. Now, what do you think of the upgrades and the new automatic transmission? Let us know in the comments after reading the article.
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Car.
