When the Toyota GR Corolla was launched, it was solely out there with a guide transmission. #BecauseRacecar. Demand was sturdy for the brand new GR Corolla proper out the gate, with sellers promoting them for WAY over asking value. However I think about that demand has slowed down by now..
As such, they’re increasing their buyer base, providing the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla with an computerized transmission for the primary time ever, very like what Subaru did with the WRX in 2015. And guess what, gross sales of the WRX greater than tripled, as a result of most Individuals by no means discovered drive a stick.
So you may’t actually blame Toyota for bringing an computerized model to market. As they put it, “Now each hardcore fanatics who benefit from the thrill of a guide transmission and people who’d quite deal with the dealing with can benefit from the thrill of sports activities automobile driving with the brand new addition of the 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Computerized Transmission with paddle shifters.”
However that’s not the one factor new for 2025. By their growth efforts, the GR staff elevated engine torque on the Toyota GR Corolla from 273 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft and enhanced suspension elements and tuning leading to a automobile that’s certain to impress. Horsepower stays the identical at 300HP.
Modifications have additionally been made each inside and outside to enhance the driving expertise. On the outside, the entrance bumper has been redesigned to accommodate non-compulsory cooling elements whereas concurrently retaining aerodynamic efficiency. On the within, there’s a new darkish sporty vibe because of the new trim finishes on flat surfaces and switches all through the automobile to offer a delightful tactile really feel.
GAZOO Racing Direct Computerized Transmission
The 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Computerized Transmission (DAT) is a sports activities automobile fanatic’s dream, providing fast shifting efficiency and optimum gear choice. The DAT management software program has been optimized for sporty driving. Completely different than the Toyota GR Supra and GR86 automatics the place gear shifting depends on sensing automobile conduct, corresponding to deceleration g-force and pace – the DAT’s optimized software program delicately senses the way in which the motive force steps on the brakes and operates the accelerator. With these inputs, it anticipates when gear shifting is perfect even earlier than adjustments in automobile conduct happen, reaching gear choice that displays the motive force’s intentions and, thus, results in shifting that’s just like that {of professional} drivers.
The DAT additionally permits drivers to focus extra on acceleration/brake and steering maneuvers, so non-professional drivers might be able to drive sooner in the event that they determine to hit the observe. Because of this, it opens up prospects for a wider vary of drivers to take pleasure in sports activities driving.
The Toyota GR growth staff 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 comparable ratios to the 6MT that maximize supply of engine energy and torque to the wheels and permits optimum efficiency. Even informal freeway driving has an lively really feel, because of the eight-speed transmission optimizing RPMs whereas at cruising speeds.
To maintain the upper engine output and DAT at an optimum temperature for efficiency, an computerized transmission fluid cooler comes customary on DAT autos. For drivers who could also be thinking about even better cooling functionality, a sub-radiator is obtainable as a factory-installed choice on the Premium grade and customary on the brand new Premium Plus Grade.
There are 4 drive modes on the GR Corolla: Sport, Regular, ECO and Customized. The DAT was tuned particularly for the Sport drive mode. It was examined and pushed all around the world, together with race circuits to make sure thrilling efficiency and maximize the driving potential.
For 2025, the GR Corolla might be out there in three grades: Core, Premium and the aggressive, new for MY2025, Premium Plus. Constructed on the TNGA-C platform, the GR Corolla has a low heart of gravity with broad tread tires mounted to solid alloy 18-inch wheels on the Core and Premium grades and 18-inch matte black wheels on the Premium Plus. All GR Corolla fashions put on Michelin Pilot Sport® 4 tires 235/40R18.
The brand new Premium Plus grade provides customary options that fanatics have come to know and love on earlier particular editions just like the carbon fiber roof, the beloved vented bulge hood and matte black wheels. Exterior colour choices are Black, Ice Cap, Heavy Metallic and Supersonic Crimson.
Prospects can count on the brand new 2025 Toyota GR Corolla to reach at dealerships this Winter. Extra particulars and pricing might be launched later this 12 months.
