A newly available automatic transmission may join the six-speed manual.
Manual transmissions have become increasingly rare, but they are still standard on every GR Corolla. However, this may soon change.
An alleged vehicle ordering guide posted on the GR Corolla Forum indicates that the 2025 model will offer an eight-speed automatic transmission in Canada. This new option will reportedly be available exclusively on the Premium trim and will come with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
In addition to the new automatic transmission, the document suggests an increased torque output for the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine. However, this claim raises some skepticism, as the document states the output will rise from 272 lb-ft (368 Nm) to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm).
At first glance, this seems like great news. However, the engine currently produces 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of torque, raising a potential red flag about the document’s legitimacy.
The same document also claims that the updated GR Corolla will feature a revised front bumper and additional standard equipment, such as brake cooling ducts and a heated steering wheel. Additionally, the Premium variant is said to have a new radiator to improve engine cooling.
While the authenticity of the document remains to be seen, Toyota officials have not been secretive about the potential addition of an eight-speed automatic transmission to the GR Corolla. This wouldn’t be unprecedented, as Toyota already offers an automatic in the GR Yaris.
Whatever Toyota has in store, the 2024 GR Corolla starts at $36,500 in the United States and comes in three different trims. The most notable is the $45,140 Circuit Edition, which features a carbon fiber roof, gloss black accents, and 18-inch forged alloy wheels.
