LEAKED: Toyota GR Corolla to get 8-speed automatic?

At the start of 2024, Toyota unleashed the “Evolved” GR Yaris. The main highlight of the updated GR Yaris is its new 8-speed automatic transmission that can mimic a driver's driving style, depending on the situation. In addition, the automatic GR Yaris comes with an uprated 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-three that makes 304 PS and 400 Nm of torque.

With a more powerful engine and a new 8-speed automatic gearbox, those who want to drive the GR Yaris without a third pedal will now be able to do so. But what about the GR Corolla? Will it also get the new 8-speed automatic transmission?

Well, we need not wonder no more as the bigger sibling of the GR Yaris will apparently also get an 8-speed automatic variant. Based on a post on the GR Corolla Forum website, a user shared a screenshot of a supposed document detailing new features for 2025 model-year vehicles in Canada. One post immediately stood out wherein the GR Corolla will be available with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Not only that, but the GR Corolla's 1.6-liter turbo engine will reportedly get more torque. From 272 ft lbs (or around 370 Nm), that figure will go up to 295 ft lbs which translates to 400 Nm, just like the GR Yaris. If those are not enough, Toyota will also apparently fit the automatic GR Corolla with a revised front bumper and a new sub-radiator on Premium variants to help keep the engine cool in any situation. It's worth noting that the upgraded GR Yaris also comes with a new sub-radiator, leading us to believe the GR Corolla will get similar upgrades.

Since the GR Yaris already comes with the new features, it would only come as natural for Toyota to also give the bigger GR Corolla the same level of mechanical upgrades. Another big reason why this is a good move for Toyota is that it would attract more buyers who want to drive a rally-bred hatchback without a third pedal. With the manual gearbox becoming a more niche offering on some performance vehicles, having an automatic variant will attract more buyers in the long run.

There's no exact date yet as to when the automatic version of the GR Corolla will be revealed. But given that the leak stated the hot hatchback as a 2025 model year, perhaps we won't have to wait long for its eventual debut. The only question now is, will the automatic version of the GR Corolla (as well as the GR Yaris) be offered in the Philippines soon?

Source: GR Corolla Forum via TheDrive