Toyota has launched the performance ‘GR’ versions of two of their most popular cars. I had the opportunity to attend a track day event at Hampton downs, and experienced both the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. GR is short for Gazoo Racing, and is the indication of the highest performance of each of the brands models.
The Yaris the exterior is heavily redesigned with improvements to cooling, a different bumper and improved suspension to generally boost performance. This year, they’ve lowered the driving position to make it feel more racy and give better forward visibility. These cars look the business, they look fast, and they are! They share a similar internal layout and drivers setup, with Toyota’s emphasis on simple geometries and strong lines. Both feature generous screens.
The 2025 Toyota GR Yaris and Corolla share a drive train featuring a potent little three cylinder turbo 1.6L engine and 4wd. The shared engine impresses with 221 kilowatts and a huge 400 Newton meters on both cars. Those stats mean you do have to run 98 octane fuel. You’ve got the choice of six speed manual or an eight speed automatic on both.
The ‘direct shift’ auto option on both cars is Toyota’s version of dual clutch, but with a clutch per gear, which is rather extraordinary. You can override automatic settings with the paddle shifters and auto also brings the benefit of launch control, not something I tried out on the track, but it was demonstrated to us. And autos these days are so good, it’s very hard to beat them. Manual has a brilliant auto blip option when you change down that will rev match for you. I have a feeling most will select the auto, cause it’s this good.
It’s easiest to talk about the performance of these cars by comparing them. The Corolla and Yaris are both four wheel drive, so give a neutral handling experience. The Yaris has the shorter wheelbase, so it’s very good in fast corners and parking lots. You have to be more precise with your steering inputs but wow does it handle. The Corolla has a relatively similar profile, although being four door, it’s a slightly longer wheelbase and has the handling to match.
The Yaris really does have an extreme amount of power for the tiny size of the two door, it is not going to disappoint anyone who gets in it. It’s a bundle of fun. It’s not all about the engine though, the Yaris has swapped some plastic components at the front of the car, for metal for better durability. And they have tidied up the aero, lowered the drivers seat. Remember, this is a rally car at heart. The Corolla, in many ways, is the best balance with an easier handling profile and 4 doors making is strangely both ‘performance’ and ‘practical’ in equal measure!
I had a very enjoyable time driving these hot little cars. They genuinely put a smile on your face when you’re driving and you know that underneath it is a very well tested car with Toyota reliability. They are onto a winning Formula here. Create mass-market two and four-door cars that suit everyone. Then create a slightly bonkers race ready one that gets you noticed and makes you desirable.
2024 Toyota GR Corolla starts at $65,990, 2035 model $69,990 for Auto
The 2025 Toyota GR Yaris starts at $61,990, +$3K for Auto
