Michael SatterfieldThe 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic, with the new eight-speed automatic transmission, redefines the hot hatch segment. It offers exhilarating performance, advanced technology, and everyday practicality. Our test vehicle was priced at just over $50,000, positioning itself among other performance-oriented and luxury cars in this segment.
Toyota GR Corolla Automatic Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the GR Corolla Automatic houses a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The introduction of the eight-speed automatic transmission enhances the driving experience, providing smooth and responsive gear shifts. This torque-converter automatic is both smooth and snappy, offering a seamless experience in full-auto mode and sharp responsiveness when desired.
The GR-Four all-wheel-drive system allows drivers to select power distribution modes, ranging from a 60/40 front-to-rear split for daily driving to a 30/70 split for more spirited driving and a 50/50 split for maximum traction during track sessions. This adaptability ensures the GR Corolla remains composed and engaging across various driving scenarios.
GR Corolla Automatic Transmission and Technological Advancements
The eight-speed automatic transmission is a significant addition for the 2025 model year. Despite being a torque-converter rather than a dual-clutch gearbox, it offers both smoothness and responsiveness. In full-auto mode, it operates seamlessly, making it suitable for daily commuting. When the driver seeks a more engaging experience, the transmission responds sharply, especially when utilizing the paddle shifters.
The inclusion of launch control in automatic transmission models showcases Toyota’s commitment to performance. This feature optimizes acceleration from a standstill, enhancing the vehicle’s track capabilities. Additionally, the updated torque figures, now at 295 lb-ft, provide a noticeable boost in mid-range power, contributing to a more exhilarating driving experience.
Design and Interior Features
The 2025 GR Corolla Automatic maintains its aggressive stance with a restyled front fascia designed to improve airflow and aerodynamics. The Premium Plus trim introduces a forged carbon roof and a power bulge hood, emphasizing its performance pedigree. Inside, the cabin is driver-focused, featuring supportive seats and intuitive controls, ensuring comfort during both spirited drives and daily commutes.
Value Proposition and Market Positioning
At nearly $50,000, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic jumps into a battlefield of high-performance contenders, each offering a different take on the enthusiast experience. The Volkswagen Golf R delivers a refined yet powerful punch with its 315-hp turbocharged engine, dual-clutch transmission, and torque-vectoring AWD system, making it a formidable everyday performer. Meanwhile, the Honda Civic Type R remains the FWD king, with razor-sharp handling and a 315-hp turbo-four, but its manual-only transmission keeps it in purist territory. On the luxury side, the Acura Integra Type S brings an upscale touch to Civic Type R performance, but it also sticks to a manual transmission and front-wheel drive, making it a slightly different proposition.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly thrill, the Hyundai Elantra N offers serious performance at a lower price, with its 276-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and an available dual-clutch automatic, though it lacks AWD. On the other end of the spectrum, the Subaru WRX tS packs rally-inspired all-wheel-drive capability, a 271-hp turbo flat-four, and a CVT option, but it struggles to match the GR Corolla’s raw excitement. While these competitors each have their strengths—be it tech, luxury, or affordability—the GR Corolla’s rally-bred GR-Four AWD system, torque-rich 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder, and track-ready chassis set it apart as a true enthusiast’s hot hatch.
The biggest question: is the GR Corolla Automatic worth $50K? It’s an undeniably thrilling machine, blending hardcore performance with real-world usability, but at this price, it’s facing some serious rivals. The Golf R offers a more refined AWD experience, the Civic Type R and Integra Type S deliver sharper front-drive handling, and the Elantra N brings value-driven fun. If you want a rally-bred, AWD, turbocharged hatchback with Toyota’s durability and a newly added automatic transmission, then yes—the GR Corolla still stands tall as a true driver’s car. But with this many options in the mix, the competition has never been fiercer.
The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic with the eight-speed automatic transmission blends everyday usability with high-performance thrills. Its engaging driving dynamics, advanced features, and distinctive design make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a versatile hot hatch.
Specifications of the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic
The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic is a high-performance hot hatch that blends Toyota’s rally heritage with modern driving dynamics. Below are the full specifications of this highly anticipated model.
Engine and Performance
- Engine Type: 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-three (G16E-GTS)
- Horsepower: 300 hp @ 6,500 rpm
- Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3,250 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (GR-DAT) with paddle shifters
- Drivetrain: GR-FOUR all-wheel drive with adjustable torque distribution
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: Approximately 4.9 seconds
- Top Speed: 143 mph
Dimensions and Weight
- Wheelbase: 103.9 inches
- Length: 173.6 inches
- Width: 72.8 inches
- Height: 57.2 inches
- Curb Weight: Approximately 3,341 pounds
Fuel Economy
- City: 19 mpg
- Highway: 27 mpg
- Combined: 22 mpg
Chassis and Suspension
- Front Suspension: MacPherson strut
- Rear Suspension: Multi-link
- Brakes: High-performance ventilated disc brakes
- Wheels and Tires: 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires
Exterior Features
- Lighting: LED headlights and taillights
- Aerodynamics: Functional air vents, rear diffuser, and triple exhaust outlets
- Roof: Forged carbon-fiber roof (available on Premium Plus trim)
Interior Features
- Seating: Seating for up to five passengers with sport seats
- Upholstery: Cloth (Core trim); synthetic leather and suede with gray stitching (Premium and Premium Plus trims)
- Climate Control: Automatic climate control; dual-zone available on higher trims
- Infotainment System: 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Audio System: Six-speaker system (Core trim); eight-speaker JBL premium audio system (Premium and Premium Plus trims)
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
- Standard: Toyota Safety Sense suite, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, and pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Additional Features: Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert; front and rear parking sensors (available on higher trims)
Trim Levels and Pricing
- Core: Starting at $38,860
- Premium: Starting at $41,440
- Premium Plus: Starting at $45,515
Note: These specifications are based on available data and may vary depending on regional availability and optional packages.
