Toyota introduced an eight-speed automatic transmission option, increased torque, and improved cooling for the GR Corolla in the 2025 model year update in early August. However, it appears that the car's evolution in this generation is not yet complete. A recent video captured at the Nürburgring shows a partially camouflaged prototype undergoing high-speed testing.
What could this mean? Our initial speculation is that Toyota might be considering bringing the GR Corolla to Europe. However, this seems unlikely due to stricter emissions regulations and the potential impact on the company's fleet average emissions. Starting from 2025, automakers must meet even more stringent targets to avoid hefty fines.
Toyota already sells the smaller GR Yaris in Europe with the same three-cylinder engine and the newly introduced automatic transmission. This suggests that the company already has the hot hatch segment covered, making the introduction of both models redundant. While more options would be great for enthusiasts, the reality of 2024 is that fun cars are a niche market, and the economics rarely favor mainstream, affordable performance vehicles.
The orange side markers in the headlights indicate that this prototype could be a US-spec GR Corolla. The prominent rear spoiler suggests that Toyota might be testing the Circuit Edition. According to car paparazzi, it could be a hotter GRMN version. However, no significant differences compared to the top-spec GR Corolla are noticeable.
The test vehicle features a roll cage, a common safety upgrade in prototypes. Even less powerful cars have been spotted at the Nordschleife with this feature. If this is indeed a GR Corolla for America, why is it being tested at the 'Ring? Perhaps the disguise is hiding a minor facelift or a special edition planned for the 2026 model year.
The spy video raises more questions than answers, but it seems clear that Toyota is working on something related to the GR Corolla. We predict a facelift, but only time will reveal if there's something more substantial in the works. Meanwhile, we continue to eagerly await the BMW-powered GRMN Supra...
