Toyota Introduces the Motorsport-Inspired GR Corolla to the Middle East

The long-awaited GR Corolla is finally hitting roads across the Middle East. Developed directly under the renowned Toyota GAZOO Racing team and its philosophy of “building ever-better cars through motorsports,” this performance-focused hot hatch draws on extensive rally and circuit testing to deliver exceptional power, control, and driving excitement.

Motorsport heritage lies at the core of the GR Corolla’s development, from the powertrain and aerodynamics to the driver-focused cockpit. Building on engineering insights gained through competition and professional driver feedback, this relentless cycle of challenge and improvement has shaped a vehicle that responds precisely to driver inputs. Tuned for the heat and diverse driving conditions of the Middle East, it offers confidence and excitement on winding routes, city streets, and the track.

Akio Toyoda (Morizo), Toyota Chairman and Master Driver, said: “As with every GR vehicle, the GR Corolla reflects our commitment to motorsport and the belief that the best cars are made on the track. The GR Corolla was built to deliver a pure driving experience—responsive, engaging, and fun.”

At the heart of the GR Corolla is a 1.6-liter G16E-GTS turbocharged three-cylinder Dynamic Force Engine (sport), also found in Toyota’s World Rally Championship-inspired models. Engineered to deliver high output from a lightweight, compact package, it produces 296 HP at 6,500 rpm and 400 Nm of torque between 3,250 and 4,600 rpm. Refined through extensive track testing, the engine delivers powerful mid-range acceleration for corner exits while withstanding prolonged high-stress operation.

This power is channeled through the GR-FOUR active torque-split all-wheel drive system, which continuously optimizes torque distribution to all four wheels for maximum traction and a direct handling feel. Customers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission for an engaging, driver-focused experience or the eight-speed GR-DAT (GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission), calibrated for responsive, high-performance driving.

Complementing the drivetrain, the GR Corolla features a fine-tuned chassis with MacPherson strut suspension at the front and double wishbone suspension at the rear.

The exterior design of the GR Corolla is the direct result of motorsport-driven engineering. Cooling and aerodynamics are enhanced through an airflow system that increases downforce, reduces drag, and maintains stability under demanding driving conditions. A sub-radiator positioned toward the front of the vehicle helps improve engine cooling efficiency, while enlarged front grille openings draw air more effectively into the cooling system, which includes brake ducts, a radiator, and an intercooler.

Optimized bumper and grille shapes guide airflow from the front to the sides of the vehicle, while functional hood, front bumper, and fender ducts work together to support handling stability. On models equipped with the GR-DAT automatic transmission, cooling is further supported by an air-cooled transmission fluid cooler working alongside a water-cooled transmission fluid warmer and cooler to maintain optimal operating temperatures.

Inside the cabin, the GR Corolla offers a driver-centric environment, with a layout that creates a strong sense of connection between driver and vehicle. Purposeful controls, supportive sports seating, and an 8-inch high-definition Display Audio system provide clear visibility of navigation and vehicle information.

The GR Corolla also features 60/40 split-folding rear seats that enable flexible cargo configurations. The rear seats can be folded forward to expand luggage space for family outings and shopping trips, while a single seat can be lowered to accommodate long, narrow items. For larger loads, both rear seats can be folded down to create a wider, more versatile cargo area, ensuring the GR Corolla delivers everyday usability no matter how many passengers are on board.

Safety remains a core pillar of the GR lineup. The GR Corolla is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies designed to support confident driving in all conditions. This includes a Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), and Lane Departure Alert (LDA). An Automatic High Beam (AHB) system further enhances nighttime visibility. Additional safety and driver-assistance technologies include a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Safe Exit Assist (SEA), which help improve awareness of surrounding vehicles when driving and exiting the car. 

On models equipped with the eight-speed GR-DAT automatic transmission, the GR Corolla includes a Parking Support Brake system for static objects in front and rear of the vehicle, as well as a Parking Support Brake function for moving vehicles at the rear. For six-speed manual transmission models, low-speed maneuvering and parking are supported by Clearance Sonar and Back Sonar. Both models also include a Back Monitor for improved rear visibility.

The GR Corolla comes in four striking exterior colors: Precious Metal, Platinum White Pearl Mica, Emotional Red, and Precious Black. Inside, customers can choose between Black or Black & Red interior themes, reinforcing the car’s sporty, performance-focused identity.

The introduction of the GR Corolla strengthens Toyota’s GR lineup in the Middle East and reflects the region’s growing passion for competition-bred engineering. Nobuyuki Takemura, Chief Representative of the Toyota Middle East Representative office, Toyota Motor Corporation, said: “The Middle East has a growing passion for performance and motorsport culture. The GR Corolla brings Toyota GAZOO Racing’s engineering philosophy to a compact, highly capable platform that delivers excitement on every drive.”