Toyota has announced the upcoming release of an all-new GR Corolla, a vehicle that incorporates a special transmission from Toyota Gazoo Racing.
According to a press release, the new GR Corolla increases the "fun quotient" with its 8-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) with paddle shifters. This system uses optimized software to detect how each driver is stepping on the gas and brake pedals, thus helping it anticipate the optimal gear shift timing.
Toyota says that the DAT will allow drivers to focus more on acceleration, braking, and steering. Toyota says this will help non-professional drivers better tackle the track if they decide to try out sports driving.
The addition of the DAT is not the only major change for the all-new GR Corolla, which features a 300-horsepower turbocharged G16E-GTS 1.6 liter 3-cylinder turbo engine.
Toyota also increased engine torque from 273 lb.-ft. to 295 lb.-ft. The automaker also worked on suspension components and tuning to further improve the driving experience.
The GR Corolla features an adjustable GR-FOUR All-Wheel-Drive system featuring three different traction modes. Normal focuses on everyday driving with its 60:40 front/rear torque distribution. Gravel focuses on maximum traction as it adjusts the distribution to 50:50.
The Track mode continuously adjusts the distribution between 60:40 and 30:70 based on the driver's input and the vehicle's status.
The GR Corolla underwent rigorous testing ahead of its unveiling. According to Toyota, rally and racing drivers tested out the hot hatch at a variety of tracks around the world. This includes Fuji Speedway, a track that has hosted Formula 1, the Asian Le Mans Series, and the World Sportscar Championship.
The GR Corolla will arrive at Toyota dealerships this winter. Toyota has not provided any details about pricing, but there will be three trim levels -- Standard, Premium, and Premium Plus.
Photo credit: Toyota
The standard trim includes such items as sports-tuned suspension and brake cooling ducts. It sits on 18-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4 Tires.
The premium trim adds such items as a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, a JBL eight-speaker system, wireless charging, and front and rear parking sensors.
The premium plus trim adds matte black wheels, a forged carbon fiber roof, a sub radiator, a heads-up display, and a bulge hood and functional gloss black air vents.
Both the premium and premium plus trim levels include GR logoed Brin Naub suede-trimmed seats.
Each purchase of the GR Corolla will include a one-year complimentary membership to the National Auto Sport Association. This membership includes such benefits as one free High-Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events.