The Toyota GR Corolla has arrived, and it’s causing quite a stir. Boasting 300 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque from a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, this hot hatch demands attention. Feeding this powerplant is up to 25.2 psi of boost, channeled exclusively through a six-speed manual transmission and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system with an electronically controlled center differential. Limited availability means getting your hands on one might be a challenge, adding to the desirability of this exciting machine.
All three trim levels for the 2024 model year—Core, Premium, and Circuit Edition—share the same potent powertrain, suspension setup, and braking components. The base Core model comes standard with open front and rear differentials, while the Premium and Circuit Edition models upgrade to Torsen limited-slip differentials at both ends for enhanced traction. However, Core buyers aren’t left out, as the Performance package option brings the Torsen differentials to the entry-level trim.
Beyond these performance differentiators, the variations between models primarily revolve around aesthetics and comfort features. Our test vehicle, the Circuit Edition, sports a lightweight carbon fiber roof—though it doesn’t significantly reduce overall weight—and functional hood vents, beneficial for managing heat under the hood of such a highly boosted engine. Crucially, the core performance elements are accessible even in the most basic GR Corolla configuration, highlighting Toyota’s focus on driving thrills.
At its heart, the GR Corolla remains a Corolla, albeit one significantly enhanced for performance. While the chassis benefits from extra welds and structural adhesive to increase rigidity, the car’s economy car origins are subtly present. This isn’t necessarily a drawback. The GR Corolla embraces its roots, offering excellent Toyota ergonomics and upgraded seats compared to the standard Corolla. However, the interior maintains a simpler, more functional aesthetic rather than aiming for outright luxury.
Competitors like the Honda Civic Type R and particularly the Volkswagen Golf R present more upscale interior environments. The GR Corolla’s cabin feel aligns closer to a base model Corolla than, for example, the Hyundai Elantra N does to its more pedestrian sibling. This back-to-basics approach sets the GR Corolla apart, prioritizing driving engagement over premium frills.
How Does the GR Corolla Drive? Performance and Handling Review
The GR Corolla’s no-nonsense character translates directly to its driving experience, especially on track. The focus on raw performance quickly overshadows any interior simplicity. Driving the GR Corolla aggressively evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of cars like the Mazdaspeed3 or even the Dodge Omni GLH. It delivers a distinctly old-school hot hatch feel with noticeable turbo lag followed by a surge of power as boost builds. The ride is firm, communicating every road imperfection, but the steering is sharp, direct, and provides excellent feedback. Braking is immediate and powerful, exhibiting the responsiveness expected from a track-capable vehicle.
The handling is competent and engaging. While fundamentally a front-wheel-drive based car with added all-wheel-drive, the GR Corolla manages its weight distribution effectively. Expect some understeer at the limit, typical of this configuration, but the AWD system effectively distributes power, preventing excessive strain on the front tires.
The GR Corolla’s true strength lies in its ability to make its performance fully accessible to the driver. This was apparent during the initial press launch and confirmed during our testing. The GR provides a communicative and engaging driving experience without feeling nervous or unpredictable. The limits of grip and balance are easily discernable, inspiring confidence in every corner.
Contributing significantly to this accessible performance are the substantial brakes: 14.1-inch front rotors with four-piston calipers and 11.7-inch rear rotors with two-piston calipers. These brakes offer not only immense stopping power but also exceptional feel and modulation. They allow for precise control during corner entry, encouraging aggressive braking and enabling drivers to confidently push the limits, knowing corrections are easily managed. It’s among the most confidence-inspiring cars in its class when entering corners.
However, the old-school character does manifest in certain aspects. The three-cylinder engine, while contributing to weight reduction, relies heavily on turbocharging to produce its impressive power. Quick and precise shifts are crucial to maintain momentum. Hesitation during gear changes, particularly the 3-4 shift, can result in a momentary dip in acceleration as the turbo needs to rebuild boost pressure.
Track Performance Data: GR Corolla Lap Times and Comparisons
Subjective impressions are valuable, but objective data from our VBox testing provides concrete performance metrics. The data confirms the GR Corolla’s place among the top performers in the hot hatch segment, closely matching its primary rivals in track performance.
During our testing at Florida International Rally & Motorsport Park, the GR Corolla achieved a best lap time placing it squarely in the competitive set. While lap times are incredibly close amongst competitors and influenced by track and test conditions, the GR Corolla (1:21.57) sits between the Hyundai Veloster N (1:21.49) and the FK8-generation Honda Civic Type R (1:21.79). The Volkswagen Golf R and Elantra N also fall within a tight range, posting times in the mid-1:21s and low 1:22.0 range.
Analyzing the data further reveals the GR Corolla’s strengths. It leverages its brakes and stability to outperform the Civic Type R, despite the surprising corner exit traction of the front-wheel-drive Honda. The GR Corolla demonstrates a willingness to brake later and harder while maintaining stability into turns, a contrast to the Civic which demands a more delicate approach to corner entry.
Against its all-wheel-drive competitor, the Volkswagen Golf R, the GR Corolla trails slightly in lap time, primarily due to a power deficit. The Golf R’s horsepower advantage and quick-shifting DSG transmission provide an edge in acceleration. Even when the GR Corolla carries more speed through corners, the Golf R’s superior acceleration allows it to close the gap rapidly and incrementally extend its lead with each gear change.
Interestingly, acceleration curves between the two cars converge around fourth gear. The GR Corolla’s high boost pressure enables its small three-cylinder engine to exhibit surprising top-end pull, defying expectations based on displacement alone.
Overall, the GR Corolla’s data profile reflects a well-composed and predictable car. Minimal speed variation through corners and a consistent data trace align with our subjective experience of accessible and manageable performance. Furthermore, reports from GR Corolla owners in autocross and track communities suggest that achieving up to 3 degrees of negative camber with the factory struts is easily attainable. This adjustability allows drivers to further fine-tune the handling and mitigate some of the inherent characteristics of a taller, front-heavy vehicle, unlocking even more track potential.
GR Corolla Review: The Verdict
The Toyota GR Corolla is undeniably a thrilling car to drive, especially on a track. Weighing in at roughly 3000 lbs, it’s a potent package of fun. Its core appeal lies in its throwback character. It forgoes the refined sophistication of some competitors, but this rawness is precisely what many enthusiasts will find appealing. Critics might point to its lack of polish, while fans will celebrate its unadulterated, visceral driving experience.
The GR Corolla is the automotive equivalent of raw cookie dough – enjoyable in its unrefined form. It’s not trying to be overly polished or luxurious, instead delivering a pure, engaging driving experience. After pushing the GR Corolla to its limits on track, we wholeheartedly understand and appreciate its unique, slightly untamed charm. For those seeking a focused, performance-oriented hot hatch that prioritizes driving thrills above all else, the GR Corolla delivers in spades and is absolutely worth the hype.
