As we anticipated, following its introduction on the GR Yaris earlier this yr, Toyota is including the choice of an 8-speed computerized transmission to the GR Corolla scorching hatch. The brand new auto comes together with an general facelift for the 2025 mannequin yr GR Corolla that brings extra torque, tweaked styling and different new options.
That auto is the massive information. Toyota calls it the Gazoo Racing Direct Computerized Transmission (DAT), and it’s a distinct unit than what’s discovered within the GR86 and Supra. As a substitute of sensing car conduct like pace and deceleration, Toyota says the DAT’s software program “delicately senses the way in which the driving force steps on the brakes and operates the accelerator,” so it will possibly “anticipate when gear shifting is perfect even earlier than adjustments in car conduct happen.” Meaning its shifting occurs the way in which knowledgeable skilled driver may make it occur, so amateurs can deal with steering and brakes. Toyota’s personal skilled drivers helped with growth:
The DAT additionally permits drivers to focus extra on acceleration/brake and steering maneuvers, so non-professional drivers could possibly drive quicker in the event that they resolve to hit the monitor. Because of this, it opens up prospects for a wider vary of drivers to take pleasure in sports activities driving.
The Toyota GR growth workforce used circuit and rally driving programs as a foundation for setting the DAT’s shut gear ratio. They optimized the shift factors of the DAT, giving related ratios to the 6MT that maximize supply of engine energy and torque to the wheels and allows optimum efficiency. Even informal freeway driving has an lively really feel, because of the eight-speed transmission optimizing RPMs whereas at cruising speeds.
The GR Corolla’s turbocharged 1.6-liter 3-cylinder engine nonetheless places out 300 horsepower, however torque has been elevated from 273 pound-feet to 295, matching the discontinued Morizo Version. Computerized-equipped automobiles get a transmission fluid cooler, and a sub-radiator is a brand new factory-installed choice on higher trim ranges. New rebound springs on the entrance and rear “suppress interior wheel elevate throughout energetic dynamic driving,” a tweak that was made after testing at Fuji Speedway. The rear coils and stabilizers have been upgraded for higher controllability in corners, and the trailing arm mounting level has been raised to cut back rear squat whereas accelerating. Entrance and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials are actually commonplace on each GR Corolla, and computerized fashions get launch management.
Toyota redesigned the entrance bumper for higher aerodynamics and cooling, with bigger openings on the corners and air curtains simply forward of the entrance wheel arches. It seems to be even higher, I feel, extra just like the WRC rally automobiles the GR Corolla is impressed by. On the within, Toyota added darker trim finishes, however that’s about it. Computerized fashions get paddle shifters, after all.
Like final yr, the GR Corolla is obtainable in base Core and fancier Premium trims, with no adjustments to the function choices. However there’s a brand new Premium Plus trim that features some options from the earlier Circuit and Morizo Editions, in addition to different gadgets new to the automotive. The Premium Plus will get matte black wheels, a solid carbon-fiber roof and a hood bulge with purposeful air vents, plus the sub radiator that’s elective on the Premium. The Premium Plus additionally provides a head-up show and suede-trimmed seats with pink stitching all through the inside.
The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla will attain U.S. dealerships this winter, with pricing but to be introduced. Don’t count on it to value far more than the 2024 mannequin’s $37,195 beginning value, with the Premium Plus coming in at round $45,000. Each 2025 GR Corolla will include a one-year membership to the Nationwide Auto Sport Affiliation (NASA), giving homeowners one complimentary HPDE and reductions to NASA occasions.
