Toyota’s GR Corolla

Toyota’s New Track Beast: The GR Corolla

The buzz around Toyota’s corner of the automotive world has been heating up with the latest prototype of the GR Corolla. This camouflaged beast, shown off as a “development vehicle,” hints at more than just a few tweaks. With whispers of a full-on GRMN model, this hatchback might be the car that turns heads and scorches tracks when it officially comes out later this year.

Styling Upgrades

Right off the bat, the style of this GR Corolla screams performance. The hood now has vents for added cooling, while the front fenders are more flared, giving it that aggressive stance. But what really catches the eye is the rear wing, which dwarfs the one on the current Circuit Edition. This isn’t just for looks; it’s all about embracing its race-ready DNA, reminiscent of prototypes seen at the Nürburgring. Gazoo Racing, known for their expertise at the Nürburgring, would likely have their fingerprints all over this car.

Underneath, the car rides on 18-inch matte black forged BBS wheels paired with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, known for their excellent grip. Unlike the more modest Pilot Sport 4s on other models, these tires are wider, measuring 245/40 ZR18, compared to the Circuit Edition’s 235 widths. Plus, there’s no rear windshield wiper, shedding any unnecessary weight for optimum performance.

Fine-Tuned Performance

Peeking under the hood, this GR Corolla isn’t just about extra ponies. The turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine still pumps out the same 300 horsepower, but now boasts “unique tuning” which teases more torque than the current 295 pound-feet. Specific figures are hush-hush, yet expect a punchier throttle response and robust mid-range power—perfect for tackling any twisting road or track day.

Track Origins

Toyota makes it clear: this car is bred for the track. Scheduled to headline at the Formula Drift event in Long Beach, the GR Corolla promises a performance pedigree. Seeing Akio Toyoda, the chairman with racing chops of his own, taking it for a test spin adds to the excitement.

Toyota’s roots in motorsports, especially rally and endurance formats, shine through with this prototype. Should the GRMN version make its way stateside, U.S. car enthusiasts could finally get a taste of what European and Japanese fans have enjoyed in extreme editions.

Final Thoughts

While Toyota hasn’t officially greenlit any details, this GR Corolla looks set to be the most track-focused iteration yet. It packs more torque, has aerodynamic boosts, features Cup 2 tires, and a lighter design. When this rocket launches in the fall, expect the pricing to start above the $46,275 price tag of the Circuit Edition and potentially align with the $51,420 Morizo. Regardless of the moniker, this car is Toyota’s bold answer to anyone doubting its dedication to crafting pure enthusiast machines.