Upgraded GR Corolla to Launch in Japan This November
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing has officially unveiled a partially upgraded version of its GR Corolla and confirmed that customer orders are now being accepted through Toyota dealerships across Japan. Sales are scheduled to begin on November 3, 2025, marking another step in the continued evolution of the brand’s motorsports-inspired hatchback.
Lessons from the Track
True to TGR’s philosophy of “making ever-better cars,” the upgrades draw heavily on knowledge gained from competing in Japan’s demanding Super Taikyu Series endurance racing championship. Engineers applied their learnings to ensure that the new GR Corolla performs reliably in high-stress environments, from twisting Japanese circuits to international tracks like the Nürburgring.
One of the most notable improvements lies in the vehicle’s reinforced body structure. By extending the application of structural adhesive by an additional 13.9 meters, for a total of 32.7 meters, rigidity has been significantly enhanced without adding unnecessary weight. This modification helps the car withstand the intense vertical and lateral g-forces often experienced during high-speed cornering on overseas tracks, strengthening the feeling of unity between driver and machine.
Cooling Enhancements for Endurance
Another technical highlight is the addition of a cool air duct to the GR Corolla’s secondary intake system. Positioned below the air cleaner, the duct draws in outside air directly from the front grille. This feature helps reduce intake-air temperatures during long stretches of full-throttle, high-load driving, ensuring that the high-revving 1.6-liter three-cylinder G16E-GTS turbocharged engine maintains stable output even under extreme thermal stress. The result is greater reliability and consistent performance during both spirited driving and track-day use.
Sound and Comfort Upgrades
While the GR Corolla is engineered for the racetrack, Toyota has also paid attention to everyday usability and comfort. The optional JBL Premium Sound System has been refined with the inclusion of a luggage compartment subwoofer, expanding the number of speakers from eight to nine. This delivers a richer and more immersive listening experience during daily commutes.
In addition, the model now incorporates Active Sound Control (ASC), a system that synchronizes sporty engine sounds with vehicle acceleration, deceleration, and gear shifts. Drivers can even experience motorsports-inspired “burbling” sounds during throttle release, mimicking the crackles associated with racing exhaust systems. ASC can be tuned to different modes with three selectable volume settings, or it can be completely turned off for those who prefer a quieter cabin.
Together, these upgrades reflect TGR’s dual focus: delivering an authentic motorsports experience while ensuring that customers enjoy their cars in regular, everyday driving conditions.
Wider Customer Access
Since its original launch in 2022, the GR Corolla has been available only through a lottery-based purchasing system, which severely limited ownership opportunities. Responding to strong customer demand, Toyota has now revised its supply system to allow greater availability of the hot hatch for the Japanese market. This change means more enthusiasts will have the opportunity to enjoy the car’s performance and unique driving character.
For existing GR Corolla owners, Toyota is also preparing a software-inclusive upgrade program. Scheduled for release in spring 2026, the program will deliver tangible performance improvements. Notably, it will increase maximum engine torque from 370 Nm to 400 Nm, aligning earlier models with the output of the updated GR Corolla. Enhancements to the GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system are also included, with adjustments to driving modes such as “GRAVEL” and “TRACK” to provide a wider range of torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Pricing and full details will be announced closer to the program’s launch.
Continuing Evolution
The updated GR Corolla embodies the spirit of TGR and its chairman, Akio Toyoda—known as Master Driver Morizo—who has long advocated for creating cars that excite and connect with drivers. His vision of “bringing back a Corolla that captivates customers” has been realized through the GR Corolla, and each iteration pushes the car closer to that goal.
TGR emphasizes that its development journey is never-ending. Every update incorporates insights not only from professional racing drivers but also from a wide range of everyday users. This collaborative feedback loop ensures that each new model iteration is more refined, more robust, and more enjoyable to drive.
