Upon the arrival of the 2024 GR Corolla at our premises, it took me an instant to realize that this was not a typical Corolla with superficial enhancements, a slight power bump, and a GR badge thrown on for show. Instead, it was a bold endeavor to create and offer something that most car executives would never dare to approve, fearing the consequences. This rare gem is a product of ambition that actually delivers.
While it shares a platform with the regular Corolla, this model defies the mundane expectations associated with it. It is not intended for routine tasks like commuting or grocery runs. This Corolla serves a different purpose. Despite being capable of the mentioned activities, it boasts a distinct facet to its character known as “Performance.”
Excuse me?
Did you catch that?
The GR Corolla began as a standard Corolla, but Toyota took the bold step of removing the modest 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 170hp and 151lb-ft of torque. In its place, they installed a turbocharged 1.6L three-cylinder engine generating 300hp and 273 lb-ft of torque under 25 lbs of boost. Additionally, they incorporated AWD by connecting the rear wheels to the drivetrain, included locking front and rear differentials for enhanced traction, upgraded to larger brakes, wheels, and stickier tires. To complement these changes, the body was widened with aggressive-looking bodywork to accommodate the wider wheels, adorned with vents and scoops. The outcome is a visually striking, high-performance hatchback that growls at ignition, snarls during acceleration, exhales when the throttle is released, and crackles on deceleration.
The potential seems promising, but let’s explore the interior offerings of the GR Corolla. It features three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, with Sport mode likely being the preferred choice. A six-speed manual transmission awaits your control. On the console, a dial labeled “GR-Four” allows you to customize power delivery options: 60/40 front/rear, 30/70 front/rear, or 50/50 front/rear. Quite unconventional for a Corolla, right? The seats are upholstered in cloth to prevent slippage, bolstered adequately to secure occupants during spirited driving through twists and turns.
Truth be told, the only thing lacking is a sizable “HOONIGAN” sticker on the rear window.
We were eager to take the wheel and experience it firsthand, and so we did not waste any time. As soon as the ignition was fired up, it emitted a sound unlike any Corolla we had encountered before. There was a menacing growl, signaling that this was no ordinary Corolla. When the engine was revved, a distinct snarl resonated, exuding an animalistic desire for freedom. Engage first gear, release the clutch slowly, and off we went. The acceleration was good, swift. Press a bit harder on the pedal, and it surged ahead with increasing vigor. Shifting gears led to a pronounced sigh as the wastegate released pressure. Push the throttle further, and the GR Corolla forcefully pushed occupants back in their seats, accelerating like a rocket launch from an F-22. It was undeniably quick. Though not at the GR Supra’s level, the distinctiveness of this model was undeniable.
Cruising down the road, it maintained stability and precision. The suspension offered a firm yet comfortable ride, devoid of excessive lean during cornering; it responded obediently to steering inputs, with AWD ensuring grip in all conditions. Surface imperfections were transmitted through the suspension, but without undue harshness. Let’s step on it again: Downshift, throttle down, and the GR Corolla surged up the rural two-lane road we were on as if competing in a rally championship. Despite the potent engine, there were instances where we rapidly caught up with slower traffic, but the substantial red brake calipers clamped down on the large brake discs assertively, offering precise modulation as requested. The brakes felt natural and intuitive, instilling confidence in the driver.
The brakes were generous, occupying the expansive 19” wheels, while grip was provided by none other than Michelin Pilot Sport 4’s – high-performance tires to contain your spirited driving or elevate the performance benchmark.
We scoured every entertaining section of winding road and unpaved path we could find, and the GR Corolla did not disappoint. It navigated tight turns with precision, glued to the tarmac. It slid around corners on gravel, with the tires searching for traction. The engine revved, gears were shifted smoothly and seamlessly. We wanted to continue exploring other routes, but time was against us, forcing us to reluctantly return the GR Corolla to Toyota as our memorable experience drew to a close.
Toyota claims the model can sprint from 0-60 in roughly 5 seconds and reach a top speed of 143 mph. These figures appear believable, especially the quick acceleration from 0-60. It’s FAST.
According to EPA estimates, it achieves 28 mpg on the highway and 21 in the city. These figures hold true unless you succumb to the temptation to unleash its full potential, in which case fuel efficiency will likely decrease substantially.
Initially priced at $36,000, the preferred variant amounts to $40,000. While this may seem hefty for a Corolla, once you grasp the value it delivers, the pricing appears entirely reasonable.
Although dubbed the GR Corolla, it bears little resemblance to any Corolla you’ve known before. While the exterior design may reflect a sportier Corolla, its core essence represents a paradigm shift. An IMPROVED vehicle. It’s the first Corolla that truly captures our aspiration to own one.
Performance: 7
Handling: 7
Design: 7
Interior: 6
Infotainment: 3
Sound: 8
Enjoyment: 9
Overall: 7
