After globetrotting and making waves worldwide, the refreshed Toyota GR Corolla is finally touching down on home soil in Japan. And let’s be real—there’s no place like home, especially when you come back with some tricked-out, homegrown exclusives.
While the JDM-spec model of the Toyota GR Corolla still packs all the global updates, Toyota has thrown in some juicy extras that make this hot hatch even more desirable for its homeland fans.
More Gears, More Fun—The Transmission Story
Here’s where things get really spicy! Unlike the global versions, which stick with a six-speed manual (6MT), the Japanese-spec GR Corolla gets an extra treat—a brand-new eight-speed automatic (8AT) option.
But this isn’t just any auto-box. Toyota’s all-new GR Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) is designed to keep the thrills alive while delivering lightning-fast shifts. Whether you go for the row-your-own 6MT or the slick 8AT, both send power to all four wheels via Toyota’s proprietary GR-Four AWD system, which now boasts an even wider range of torque split options.
Turbocharged Punch & Circuit Mode Madness
Under the bonnet, Toyota’s little nad upgraded 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine still goes all out, pushing 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque—plenty to make this pocket rocket a proper menace on the streets.
But here’s where the JDM model pulls ahead of the rest: it gets a new Circuit Mode that transforms the GR Corolla into an absolute beast.This mode isn’t just a gimmick—it’s GPS-linked, meaning it only activates when the car senses it’s near an approved circuit or racetrack.
Once engaged, the instrument cluster switches to a race-specific display, while the built-in anti-lag system kicks in with variable settings for extra turbo boost. Oh, and did we mention it also lifts the pesky 180 km/h speed limiter, letting the GR Corolla rip all the way to 230 km/h? Yeah, this thing is serious business.
Aggressive Looks with a Hint of Morizo
Visually, the JDM-spec facelifted GR Corolla keeps the same aggressive updates seen in global markets.
That means a new front bumper with larger air intakes, deleted fog lamps, and all the mean, rally-bred attitude you’d expect. But here’s a slick touch—the 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels, previously exclusive to the hardcore Morizo Edition, now come standard. Lightweight and stylish? Yes, please.
Sporty Cabin Vibes
Inside, Toyota has wisely avoided the drastic redesigns seen in some of its other models (looking at you, three-door GR Yaris).
Instead, buyers in Japan can spec their ride with the Sport Package, which adds red accents throughout the cabin, semi-bucket seats for that snug race car feel, and an ultrasuede-wrapped steering wheel that’s both grippy and premium.
Pricing: Still a Steal (If You Live in Japan)
Now, let’s talk money. As expected, prices have crept up a bit, but the JDM-spec GR Corolla still offers serious bang for your buck.
The 6MT model starts at JPY 5.68 million (RM163,300), while the new 8AT variant is priced at JPY 5.98 million (RM171,900). That’s a steal compared to what we pay here in Malaysia, where the GR Corolla facelift (6MT). which is also a CKD is a cool RM367,000. Ouch.
So, to all the JDM purists and Toyota fans out there—this one’s for you. The GR Corolla facelift is back home, and it’s flexing harder than ever.
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