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Toyota GR Corolla Premium — US review

Toyota GR Corolla Premium Review (2025–)

WRC-Inspired Hot Hatch

Toyota US review Since 2025 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is a 300-hp turbo-three AWD hot hatch with manual or auto, three-pipe exhaust, and rally-derived AWD — the most fun Corolla ever made.

Vehicle Overview

Vehicle SegmentHatchback
Body Style5-door hot hatchback
Release Year2025
Trim/Variant ReviewedPremium
Available TrimsCore, Premium, Premium Plus, Morizo Edition

Key Specifications (Toyota GR Corolla Premium)

Engine1.6L Turbo Inline-3
Power300 hp, 400 Nm
Transmission6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
EPA MPG21 city / 28 hwy / 24 combined
DrivetrainAWD (GR-FOUR)

0–60 mph: 4.9s

Top speed143 mph
Dimensions173.6" L × 70.5" W × 57.7" H
Curb weight3,286 lb
Cargo17.8 cu ft
Seats5

Exterior Design

Wide-fender flared bodywork

Triple-exhaust tip layout

18" forged alloys

Aggressive front bumper and roof scoop

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Sports seats with red contrast stitching

Available 8" touchscreen

Heated front seats standard on Premium+

Manual or automatic shifter

Features & Infotainment

Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto

GR-Four AWD with adjustable torque distribution

Available 8-speaker JBL audio

Safety & Ratings

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard

Standard pre-collision and lane departure

Driving Performance & Handling

300 hp from a 1.6L turbo-three with the highest specific output of any production three-cylinder.

GR-Four AWD with three modes60:40, 50:50, 30:70 front:rear torque distribution.

Available 6-speed manual or new 8-speed automatic for 2025.

Fuel Efficiency

EPA Combined MPG24
City MPG21
Highway MPG28
Fuel tank13.2 gallons
Estimated total range317 miles

Practicality & Everyday Usability

17.8 cu ft cargo behind rear seats

Practical 5-door layout

Manual transmission available

Warranty & Maintenance

Basic warranty3 years / 36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty5 years / 60,000 miles

On-Road Price & Value for Money

Starting MSRP$39,520
Top trim$47,165

Considering its competition and equipment level, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla offers competitive value for the segment.

Comparison with Rivals

Key competitors include the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R and Hyundai Elantra N.

The Civic Type R is the better track tool but FWD-only. The Golf R is more luxurious. The GR Corolla wins on rally character, three-cylinder uniqueness, and AWD playfulness.

Pros & Cons

Pros

300 hp turbo-three is a tiny powerplant prodigy

GR-Four AWD adds adjustability and traction

Manual transmission available

Genuinely characterful exhaust note

Cons

Fuel economy compromised

Hard ride on broken pavement

Limited dealer availability

Overall Rating

4.6 / 5 — based on segment expectations, value, performance, and practicality.

Final Verdict

The 2025 GR Corolla Premium is the most exciting Toyota since the LFA — and at this price, it's a genuine performance bargain. The manual is the soul, but the new auto opens it to more buyers.

Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.