A Hot Hatch Gets Hotter
Toyota GR Corolla 2025 The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla is here, and it’s ready to shake up the hot hatch world. Built by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing team, this car takes the regular Corolla hatchback and turns it into a thrill machine. With a starting price of $39,995, it’s a fun and affordable option compared to rivals like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R. For 2025, Toyota added more torque, a new automatic option, and sharper handling, making it a top pick for car lovers in the USA.
More Power Under the Hood
At the heart of the GR Corolla is a 1.6-liter three-cylinder turbo engine that pumps out 300 horsepower and now 295 lb-ft of torque, up from 273 lb-ft last year. This extra torque means quicker acceleration, with 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds. The standard six-speed manual transmission is a treat for drivers who love shifting gears, but a new eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters is now available for $2,000 more. The GR-Four all-wheel-drive system lets you tweak power split between front and rear wheels for different driving styles.
| Engine Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L Turbo 3-Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 300 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | ~5 seconds |
Handling That Hugs the Road
The 2025 GR Corolla is built to carve corners. Its suspension gets tweaks for better grip, with front MacPherson struts and a rear double-wishbone setup. New front and rear limited-slip differentials are standard, helping the car stick to the road during tight turns. The GR-Four system offers three modes: 60:40 for daily driving, 50:50 for tracks, and 30:70 for spirited runs. Lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires add to the sharp handling.
Sporty Looks and Smart Design
The GR Corolla looks ready to race. Wider fenders, a bold front grille, and functional air vents give it a mean stance. New for 2025 are a carbon-fiber roof on higher trims and a redesigned front bumper for better cooling. Colors like Supersonic Red and Heavy Metal Grey add flair. Inside, you get sporty seats, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer a JBL audio system and heated seats.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Wheels | 18-inch Alloy |
| Infotainment | 8-inch Touchscreen |
| Safety | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 |
| Top Trim | Premium Plus ($48,650) |
Safety and Everyday Use
Even as a performance car, the GR Corolla keeps safety first with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pedestrian detection. The hatchback design offers room for five passengers and decent cargo space, though the rear seat is tight for adults. A rear strut brace in higher trims cuts trunk space slightly, but it’s still practical for daily drives. Fuel economy is solid at 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for the manual version.
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 GR Corolla comes in three trims: Core ($39,995), Premium ($42,575), and Premium Plus ($48,650). The Core trim offers great value with standard performance features, while the Premium adds niceties like heated seats. The Premium Plus replaces last year’s Circuit Edition with extras like a head-up display. Compared to the Civic Type R, which starts above $45,000, the GR Corolla is a bargain, especially since dealers often sell it at or below MSRP.
Why It Stands Out
The GR Corolla mixes rally-inspired fun with Toyota’s famous reliability. It’s raw and exciting, perfect for weekend track days or spirited drives, yet practical enough for daily use. The new automatic option makes it appealing to more buyers, while the manual keeps purists happy. With its bold look, strong performance, and competitive price, the 2025 GR Corolla is a hot hatch that’s hard to beat. Check with your local Toyota dealer to test drive one starting this fall.