The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla has officially arrived on U.S. shores, bringing with it an exciting new option: an eight-speed automatic transmission. However, while the addition of the automatic might seem like a move aimed at capturing a wider audience, Toyota isn’t expecting the majority of buyers to make the switch. According to the automaker, approximately 80% of GR Corolla buyers in the U.S. are still projected to opt for the six-speed manual transmission, staying true to the car’s enthusiast-driven roots.
Toyota refers to the new eight-speed automatic as the Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT). This system differs from the automatic gearboxes found in other Toyota performance cars like the GR Supra and GR 86. Rather than using deceleration g-forces and speed to determine shifts, the DAT relies on inputs from the brake and accelerator to make smooth, intuitive changes. This setup is designed to offer an optimal driving experience, while still providing the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Launch Control vs. Manual Engagement: Enthusiasts Still Favor the Clutch
One of the key features that the automatic transmission brings to the table is a launch control system, which is not available with the manual gearbox. Launch control can be a valuable tool for achieving faster acceleration times, especially in competitive driving scenarios. Despite this added feature, it seems most buyers of the GR Corolla are purists who crave the hands-on control and engagement that only a manual transmission can offer.
Speaking with CarBuzz at the launch event for the 2025 GR Corolla, a Toyota spokesperson emphasized that the brand’s core demographic for the GR Corolla is made up of driving enthusiasts. These buyers are not just looking for a fast car, but one that delivers a thrilling and engaging experience, which the manual transmission provides in spades.
The Toyota GR Corolla is not alone in offering both manual and automatic transmissions in the hot hatch segment. Rivals like the Subaru WRX, Hyundai Elantra N, and Volkswagen Golf GTI also provide buyers with the choice between the two. However, detailed sales data breaking down the take rate of manual versus automatic buyers for these models remains elusive.
More Power and Refined Handling
Beyond the transmission options, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla offers a range of enhancements that make it a compelling choice for performance enthusiasts. Power continues to come from a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which still delivers an impressive 300 horsepower. However, Toyota engineers have tweaked the engine to increase torque from 273 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft, offering even more mid-range punch for drivers to enjoy.
Handling has also been refined for 2025, with the introduction of new rebound springs, along with adjustments to the rear coils and stabilizers. These improvements are designed to enhance the car’s agility and responsiveness, making it even more fun to drive. All models now come standard with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, ensuring that the power is efficiently transferred to the ground in a controlled and balanced manner.
Pricing and Lineup Changes
The 2025 GR Corolla comes with a slight price increase, reflecting the additional standard features and enhancements introduced for the new model year. The base Core model now starts at $39,995, including a $1,135 destination fee, marking a $2,360 hike over the 2024 model. Opting for the new eight-speed automatic will add $2,000 to the price tag, bringing it up to $40,860 for the Core model with the automatic transmission.
Toyota has also streamlined the lineup by discontinuing the Circuit Edition, focusing the range on models aimed at core driving enthusiasts. The GR Corolla Premium and Premium Plus trims are still available, with pricing starting at $41,440 for the manual Premium model and going up to $47,515 for the Premium Plus with the new automatic transmission.
Despite these changes, the 2025 GR Corolla remains a top choice for those seeking a blend of power, agility, and driver engagement in the hot hatch segment. Whether equipped with the purist-approved six-speed manual or the newly introduced eight-speed automatic, the GR Corolla continues to deliver the fun and performance that enthusiasts crave.
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