There’s A Big Change Coming To The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla

The Toyota GR Corolla is in line for a significant update. A leaked document states that the hot hatch will receive an automatic transmission, styling updates, and various trim updates. The Canadian dealer bulletin, posted to the GR Corolla forum, lists the claimed changes coming to the lineup.

Most importantly, the GR Corolla will finally offer an eight-speed automatic transmission option (with paddle shifters). Currently, the only choice customers have is a six-speed manual. While that appeals to keen drivers and enthusiasts, many gearheads prefer the convenience of an automatic. GR Supra and GR86 customers have long had a choice between two transmissions, and now so will GR Corolla buyers. In May, Toyota executives suggested that an automatic would be introduced if there was customer demand.

Anything Else Besides The Auto ‘Box?

It’s worth noting that only the mid-spec Premium trim will be offered with the auto ‘box. Of course, this model has no performance data yet, but we wouldn’t be surprised if it accelerates even quicker than its three-pedal sibling. As a reminder, the six-speed manual-equipped model sprints from 0-60 mph in 4.99 seconds. CarBuzz has contacted Toyota USA for comment and will update the article once we receive a reply.

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So, what else can we expect from the refreshed GR Corolla? The Core and Premium models will see a healthy bump in torque, up from 272 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft. This matches the current torque output of the top-spec Morizo Edition. The front fascia will receive a minor update, freshening the styling with a new bumper design. Moving on to trim-specific changes, the entry-level Core will gain a heated steering wheel and brake cooling ducts for MY2025.

Minor Trim Updates Can Be Expected

In addition to the available eight-speed automatic, the Premium trim will receive several embellishments aimed at making it more comfortable. These include dual-zone air conditioning, 18-inch Matte Black alloy wheels, a head-up display, and a sub-radiator, which improves engine cooling. It’s worth noting that these specifications are for Canadian market cars, so there’s a chance that US-spec models may differ. However, the automatic transmission and performance upgrades should also apply to American GR Corollas.

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If these claims are credible, we expect Toyota to make an announcement very shortly. After all, we’re halfway through 2024, and various brands, including Toyota itself, are slowly introducing the MY2025 vehicles. Not much is known, but we expect the GR Corolla automatic to use the same eight-speed transmission found in the updated GR Yaris. Unlike contemporary hot hatches and sports cars, it is not a dual-clutch design but a conventional torque converter that Toyota calls the Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, and it’s remarkably clever, with race drivers who tested the system reporting notable performance improvements and surprising levels of engagement.

Source:
GR Corolla Forum