Toyota Motor PH to wrap up 2025 with launch of GR Corolla?

Model preview or official launch?

Better late than never.

That seems to be the story for Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) these days, as they’ve finally launched the much-awaited Vios Ativ while the electric bZ4X is rolling out in dealerships by December. Those are models we were only admiring from afar earlier this year, but finally, after a lengthy wait, the two have made their way to our local market.

But much to our surprise this morning, another Toyota model could be launching next month – and yes, it’s a bespoke GR model. Enthusiasts, start giggling. Toyota will have a Gazoo Racing Trackday before the year ends, where we could try out the brand’s performance GR models on track, and along with it is a surprise guest – the GR Corolla.

The automaker was happy to give us a teaser photo of the event happening on the third week of December, showing a part of the GR Corolla’s very recognizable front fascia, while the rest of the body was blacked out. Whether or not this was intentional, it was enough to (somewhat) confirm that it’s indeed the five-door AWD turbo hatchback of Toyota.

Like the GR Yaris, the GR Corolla has recently been given an update, which could have been the reason why TMP had to hold back from launching the model a few years back. There are minor changes to the exterior, but most of the updates were done to extract better performance from the GR Corolla in the handling and powertrain side.

The G16E-GTS three-cylinder turbo produces 300 PS, with increased torque at 400 Nm. It’s also now available with the 8-speed Direct Automatic Transmission alongside the standard 6-speed manual. Other changes include revised suspension components, plus front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials.

For now, Toyota Motor PH is still tight-lipped about their plans for the GR Corolla, along with its pricing. But if we were to make any assumptions based on our crystal ball, the GR Corolla could fill the sizeable price gap between the GR Yaris 8AT and the GR Supra at around PHP 4 million.