Toyota’s Manual 2026 GR Corolla Is 0.7 Seconds Quicker To 60 And 100 Now, But It Still Runs Hot
Toyota's updated GR Corolla is quicker and more composed, but still has thermal issues
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 GR Corolla reached 60 mph in 4.2 seconds during testing, 0.7 seconds quicker than the previous model year.
- New intake and chassis upgrades make Toyota’s hatch more composed.
- Driveline temperature warnings show the GR Corolla still has one weak spot.
- The GR Corolla is now the only AWD hot hatch Americans can buy with three pedals.
- The Premium Plus manual starts at $46,565 before destination.
What Makes The GR Corolla So Special?
The GR Corolla is a manually shifted, all-wheel-drive, 300-hp oddball that fills the space left by the Subaru WRX STI and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
Toyota’s updates to the GR Corolla have made it quicker and more composed, but it still has thermal issues.
How Does The GR Corolla Handle?
Revised suspension hardware, including 20 percent firmer rear springs and a 16 percent softer rear anti-roll bar, provide more stability without turning the thing into a miserable little track special.
A new secondary air intake reduces inlet temperatures by an average of 85 degrees Fahrenheit (47 degrees Celsius) under load.
What About The GR Corolla’s Performance?
The GR Corolla stopped from 70 mph in 154 feet (47 meters) at its best, and its longest stop over six consecutive runs came in just two feet longer.
That consistency is what makes this car so special.
Is The GR Corolla Worth The Price?
The Premium Plus manual starts at $46,565 before destination, which is not cheap for a Corolla.
However, this is not really a Corolla in the ordinary sense.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 seconds |
| Quarter-mile time | 12.8 seconds at 108 mph (174 km/h) |
| Top speed | 140 mph (225 km/h) |
| Starting price | $46,565 before destination |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the GR Corolla compare to other hot hatches?
A: The GR Corolla is the only AWD hot hatch Americans can buy with three pedals, and it is quicker than the previous model year. However, it still has thermal issues.
Q: What updates did Toyota make to the GR Corolla?
A: Toyota updated the GR Corolla with new intake and chassis upgrades, including a secondary air intake and revised suspension hardware.
Q: Is the GR Corolla worth the price?
A: The Premium Plus manual starts at $46,565 before destination, which is not cheap for a Corolla. However, this is not really a Corolla in the ordinary sense.
