2025 Toyota GR Corolla with automatic and torque enhancements

Like a fine wine, the Toyota GR Corolla gets better with age.

Toyota on Thursday announced updates to the 2025 GR Corolla, the third year of the compact hot hatch's launch, and the big news is the availability of an automatic transmission to replace the current six-speed manual.

But the automatic is no old slushbox. Rather, it is a new fast-shifting direct automatic transmission developed by Toyota's Gazoo Racing motorsports division using years of rally experience. The transmission debuted earlier this year in the smaller GR Yaris sold overseas and, according to Toyota, can produce faster circuit times than a manual.

The eight-speed automatic is designed to shift faster by using software to predict driving behavior. While such technology is not new, Toyota's software goes beyond standard metrics such as deceleration G and speed, integrating the driver's own acceleration and braking style into the logic. In doing so, it can predict when a shift change is needed before the actual change in driving behavior occurs. There are also paddle shifters that can be used to manually control gear changes.

There are also changes to the powertrain. A turbocharged 1.6-liter inline three-cylinder engine is still mounted up front and drives all four wheels via a driver-adjustable four-wheel drive system, but peak torque has been increased from 273 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft. Peak power remains unchanged at 300 hp.

Toyota also tuned the chassis to improve traction during hard cornering. Major changes include the addition of rebound springs in the front and rear to prevent the inner wheels from lifting during hard cornering, and changes to the rear coils and sway bars to further improve tire ground contact in curves. In addition, the mounting position of the trailing arms was raised to reduce rear squat during acceleration and improve cornering stability.

Other changes include a modified front mask that can now accommodate cooling components such as a sub radiator (not available on the base model) without compromising aerodynamic performance. In addition, new trim materials have been used on flat surfaces inside the car.

The 2025 GR Corolla has a core model, a premium model, and a new Premium Plus model. The Premium Plus replaces the former Circuit Edition and includes goodies from that model, such as a forged carbon roof, a hood bulge, and matte black finish on the GR Corolla's standard 18-inch wheels. All models come standard with 235/40 size Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires.

The vehicles will be available at dealerships in the winter. Pricing information will be announced closer to launch, but as a guide, the 2024 model starts at $37,195 including a $1,095 destination charge.

Purchasers will come with a one-year membership to NASA (National Auto Sport Association), which includes discounts to NASA-sanctioned events and admission to Performance Driving Day.