Toyota’s GR Corolla enters 2025 with a handful of updates and a new offering. Alongside the familiar six-speed manual transmission, the lineup now includes an eight-speed automatic, making the performance hatchback accessible to those who prefer or require an alternative to manual shifting. While automatic options often attract a large share of buyers, the GR Corolla’s case might be different.
According to reports from CarBuzz, Toyota anticipates that around 80 percent of buyers will still favor the manual transmission, with only 20 percent opting for the new automatic. This preference highlights how manual gearboxes, though increasingly rare, maintain their appeal among enthusiasts. Toyota has been contacted for further insight into these projections, and any updates will be provided if additional information emerges.
The new eight-speed automatic is more than just a simple switch from a clutch pedal to gear selectors. Toyota integrated advanced software to determine optimal shift points based on the driver’s use of the throttle and brakes.
As a result, the transmission can adapt to spirited track driving or casual errands, ensuring smooth performance. Additionally, the automatic model introduces a new launch control feature, which remains unavailable for the manual version.
For 2025, every GR Corolla benefits from performance enhancements. The turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine maintains its 300 horsepower output, but torque increases to 295 lb-ft. Toyota also refined the suspension to enhance stability under aggressive driving conditions, and Torsen differentials now come standard across all trims. However, some concerns have arisen among owners, with reports suggesting that warranty claims are being denied due to alleged violations of speed limits.