2025 Toyota GR Corolla gets new optional 8-speed A/T
Toyota upgrades GR Corolla both inside & out for 2025 model year
Remember when we reported the Toyota GR Corolla will also be available with an 8-speed automatic transmission?
Well, it's now a reality after Toyota officially unveiled the 2025 GR Corolla which can now be equipped with the new Direct Automatic Transmission. Featuring a plethora of upgrades and updates, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla gets sharper handling, better aerodynamics, a more aggressive exterior, and the aforementioned automatic transmission.
Beginning with the most obvious first, the hot hatch gets the new 8-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) that Toyota claims delivers quick shifts and optimal gear selection. The DAT has been optimized for sporty driving without having to use the clutch pedal. Unlike the GR Supra and GR86's automatic gearbox where gear shifting relies on sensing vehicle behavior such as g-force and speed, the DAT's optimized software delicately senses the way the driver steps on the brakes and operates the accelerator.
With these inputs, the system can anticipate when gear shifts are optimal even before changes in vehicle behavior happen - achieving gear selection that reflects the driver’s intentions. This leads to shifting that is similar to that of professional drivers as claimed by Toyota. The Toyota GR Development Team also used circuit and rally driving courses as a basis for the DAT's close gear ratios. This gives the transmission similar gear ratios to that of a 6-speed manual while still preserving the ability of the 8-speed automatic to cruise on the highway. A total of four modes are available on the GR Corolla Sport – Sport, Normal, Eco, and Custom.
Under the hood, the 1.6L G16GE-GTS three-cylinder turbo continues to crank out 300 PS. However, its torque output has been increased from 370 Nm to 400 Nm. With the bigger torque figure and to keep the higher engine output, the DAT comes with an automatic transmission fluid cooler as standard. There's also a sub-radiator available as a factory-installed option for better cooling capability.
During testing at the Fuji International Speedway, Toyota engineers improved the hot hatch's traction during hard cornering by adding rebound springs to the front and rear suspension. This was done to suppress the inner wheel lift during dynamic driving. Meanwhile, the rear coil springs and stabilizers were also upgraded to help improve contact response and control while turning.
The trailing arm mounting point on the rear axle has been raised to reduce rear squat during acceleration. Not only does this reduce the change of vehicle posture, but it also enhances the drive response when the accelerator is pressed. Front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials (LSD) will also be standard on the 2025 GR Corolla for improved cornering performance and grip along with launch control.
Design-wise, the 2025 GR Corolla gets a redesigned front bumper to help improve cooling and aerodynamic performance balance. The redesign allows for a radiator, intercooler, brake ducts, and the previously mentioned transmission fluid cooler. The brake ducts have been tweaked so that air is drawn in more effectively. There's also an air curtain which creates an inward airflow at the top of the tire to draw more air flowing along the side – resulting in less air turbulence around the tire.
As for the wheels, 18-inch alloys come as standard while high-grade versions are finished in matte black for that extra sporty look. In addition, all GR Corolla models come with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires in 235/40/R18.
Other available features in the 2025 GR Corolla are; Brin Naub suede-trimmed seats with gray stitching, an 8-speaker JBL sound system, a Qi wireless charging pad, dual-zone automatic climate control, a forged carbon fiber roof, function gloss black air vents on the hood, and a heads-up display.
With the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla now available in the US, perhaps it might not be long before other markets get it as well. The only question now is, will Toyota Motor Philippines sell the hot hatch in the future?
