Updated Toyota GR Corolla for the Japanese Market
Toyota recently introduced an updated version of the GR Corolla for the Japanese market. This hot hatchback model received a number of improvements, including a reinforced body, enhanced engine cooling, and an updated audio system. The company also promises to increase the vehicle’s supply volumes while maintaining the previous prices.
Improved Rigidity and Cooling
Toyota engineers added an additional 13.9 meters of structural adhesive, bringing its total length to 32.7 meters. This allowed to increase the body rigidity without significant weight gain. The additional adhesive was applied primarily in the areas of the front body section, floor, and rear wheel arches.
According to Toyota representatives, increasing rigidity is especially important for stable driving on European tracks, where vertical and lateral loads are higher compared to Japanese tracks.
Another improvement was a new cooling duct installed on the additional air intake. It is designed to optimize engine temperature during prolonged full-throttle driving, which is particularly useful for track use.
Updated Audio System
Inside the cabin, the optional JBL audio system has been improved. The addition of a subwoofer in the trunk increased the total number of speakers to nine, improving sound quality. Furthermore, all models with JBL now feature an optimized Active Sound Control (ASC) system.
ASC allows to reduce unpleasant engine noises and other sounds, offering three sound modes and three volume levels depending on the selected driving mode.
The system can reproduce sporty sounds through the speakers, synchronized with acceleration and gear shifts, and also simulate characteristic pops when lifting off the throttle. The system can be turned off at any time.
Technical Specifications
Under the hood remains the same turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, which produces 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic.
Updates for Owners
Toyota also plans to release a software update for GR Corolla owners who purchased the vehicle before the implementation of the 2024 changes. This update will unlock an additional 30 Nm of torque, bringing their cars on par with the new models. The update is expected to become available in the spring of 2026.
Prices and Supply
In Japan, Toyota is already accepting orders for the updated GR Corolla, with the first deliveries starting in November. Despite all the improvements, the prices remain unchanged: the model with a manual transmission costs 5,680,000 yen, and the automatic one costs 5,980,000 yen.
Unlike previous years, when GR Corolla sales in Japan were conducted through a lottery, the updated model will be available in larger quantities. This was made possible thanks to additional production in the UK, which will cover the needs of export markets.
As for North America, Toyota is expected to introduce the updated 2026 GR Corolla in the coming weeks or months. Preliminary announcements indicate possible changes in aerodynamics, increased engine torque, and an updated chassis setup, which may hint at the appearance of a GRMN version.
The GR Corolla updates demonstrate how motorsport experience can influence production cars, making them more effective and attractive to buyers. The increase in production volumes also indicates the model’s popularity and Toyota’s readiness to meet demand in various markets.