GR Corolla Review Manual vs. Auto

The Toyota GR Corolla is an incredibly good car with a focused driving experience, rally-bred all-wheel drive, and aggressive styling. Toyota released the car for the 2023 model year and made a few changes in 2024, but 2025 is when things really get interesting. The automaker is releasing a GR Corolla with an eight-speed automatic transmission and other improvements, widening its appeal and boosting its already impressive performance.

While the GR Corolla was previously only available with a six-speed manual transmission, Toyota added an eight-speed automatic option for 2025. Called a Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT), the gearbox shifts rapidly, almost like a dual-clutch, and it brings a launch control function for more brutal off-the-line acceleration. Toyota also boosted the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder’s torque for 2025, bringing the car to 295 pound-feet, while horsepower remains strong at 300.

Regardless of the transmission choice, buyers get the GR Corolla’s fantastic GR-Four all-wheel drive system. A dial in the cabin lets the user set the torque split between 60/40 front/rear, 70/30, and 50/50. Any of the available settings provide fantastic handling and grip. The car feels as if it could claw its way through any corner at speed.

While many enthusiasts scoff at the automatic transmission option, it offers a few benefits over the manual. First, it widens the car’s appeal, making it a viable option for people who can’t or don’t want to shift their own gears. It’s also quicker, removing driver-initiated shifts in favor of computer-controlled, perfectly timed automatic shifts. Finally, while no paddle shifters can offer the precise level of control a manual shifter can, Toyota’s DAT works well with the shifters to provide quick shifts that keep the turbocharged three-cylinder engine working hard.

The GR Corolla’s cabin remained mostly the same heading into the new model year, but it got a few improvements. The new Premium Plus trim and existing Premium trim get synthetic suede upholstery, while the base Core trim sticks with cloth. The higher trims also get heated seats and a heated steering wheel, and the Premium Plus adds a head-up display.

Toyota’s recently improved infotainment system runs flawlessly on the standard 8-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with SiriusXM, navigation, Bluetooth, and USB inputs. A JBL stereo is available in higher trims, but none of the audio options offered are powerful enough to overcome Corolla’s booming exhaust note.

If you’re interested in learning more about the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla or any other new Toyota model, come see us at Valley Hi Toyota. We’d be excited to show you the latest cars, talk options, or arrange a test drive.