If you have always dreamed of a car that combines the character of a rally diva with the efficiency of a utility vehicle, the Toyota GR Corolla is made for you. With its 300 horsepower and a design that turns heads like a good old electric guitar riff, this little beast reminds us that passion can hide behind an unassuming appearance.
The Return of Classics
Since its arrival on the American market, the GR Corolla has established itself as the new benchmark for sporty compacts. With a 1.6 L turbo engine producing 300 hp and 400 Nm, it does not hold back. Its secret? An AWD GR-FOUR system that allows it to stick to the road like chewing gum on a shoe sole. Imagine driving this little marvel on winding roads, navigating corners with the precision of a conductor leading his symphony orchestra. The GR Corolla has managed to win over automotive journalists to the point that some, like Jonny Lieberman, have even succumbed and bought one. It must be said that when Jay Leno himself gives it the green light, one understands that the magic happens.
A Dilemma
But then, why have some friends confided in me that they sold their GR Corolla after a year for Porsches? My friend Eugene traded his Blue Flame model for a Carrera T while Dan, co-host of That Car Show, swapped his for a Boxster GTS 4.0. If this little marvel is so great, what causes the turnover in my circle of friends to be so high? Could the cynic in me, belonging to this disenchanted age group of 30 to 50 years, find its place in this modestly styled hot hatch?
A Look That Doesn’t Excite
When I received the GR Corolla Premium Plus in its Heavy Metal Gray shade, I must admit I was a bit disappointed. The colour was perfect for my style, but the car didn’t seem to scream “excitement!” at full volume. It was as if I had met a rockstar who decided to only play ballads. However, taking the time to examine it, I began to appreciate its little details: the flared arches, the optional body brace in the rear hatch, and the perforated brake discs. Nevertheless, for the average person, it often goes unnoticed. The only ones turning their heads were young drivers of old modified WRXs, as if we were at an underground concert where only true fans recognise the tracks.
The Art of Everyday
With a starting price of around $39,920 for the base model and $45,965 for the Premium Plus, one might expect the GR Corolla to be a joy to drive every day. But think again! In the city, it proves somewhat temperamental with a clutch that is difficult to modulate and a three-cylinder engine that struggles to deliver power before the turbo wakes up. Launches can be quite a challenge. That said, there is nothing new here; this clumsy behaviour is shared with other small turbocharged sports cars. If you live in the suburbs with smooth commutes, no problem. But for urban traffic jams? The GR Corolla can become a real pain.
Fun Above All
The JBL audio system is decent but nothing extraordinary. However, the seats are surprisingly comfortable. After testing cars that folded me in half like a Breton crêpe, Toyota has truly made progress in this area. In urban settings, the suspension is rather firm but no more than a direct competitor. While you can’t hear much of the three-cylinder engine, the sound of the turbo’s wastegate when you lift off the throttle is a real auditory delight. Fortunately, Toyota has avoided artificial noises that can turn the experience into a bad joke. Ultimately, while it is not a “tunnel car,” the GR Corolla knows how to strike a chord with the driver.
Untapped Potential
So yes, the GR Corolla is not the perfect tool for commuting. But when it comes to taking corners in the canyons, it is a true gem. During a drive with friends who own Porsches – including a Carrera T and a GT3 RS – I was amazed at how well it could hold its own against these beasts. Of course, in fast overtaking zones, it lacks the raw power and finesse that characterise its German rivals. However, in tight corners, it dances gracefully alongside the Porsches. And believe me, when you push the accelerator through a well-taken corner, you will experience that euphoric feeling reminiscent of a rock concert where every note is perfectly played.
Thrills and Some Concerns
However, a few incidents left me perplexed: twice I felt I was jeopardising this beautiful machine during gear changes that caused unexpected jolts. Perhaps I was being too demanding with this press model nearing the end of its life or simply facing the whims of a complex manual transmission paired with an AWD system. It is rumoured on forums that these issues could be resolved with a gearbox oil change, but these incidents have sown doubt about the long-term reliability of a Toyota.
A Fleeting Love
It has now been two weeks since my GR Corolla left me, and I think about it every day. Reuniting with my Porsche 718 GT4 reminded me of how it was another dimension, but it is more the GR that comes back to my mind. For around $40,000, it is a car that deserves your full attention, and I can’t help but think that it offers the best value for money currently on the market for sporty compacts.
A Place in Your Garage?
Ultimately, where does this GR Corolla fit in my already full garage? My friends who sold theirs all had at least one other car. For my part, even though it excels in its domain with its unique blend of AWD and manual transmission — a true favourite — it can never replace the pure experience of a 911 or a Cayman. However, for an enthusiast looking for a versatile car to tackle all seasons? The GR Corolla could well be the ultimate solution.
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