2025 Toyota GR Corolla AT Review: A Performance Car That's Unapologetically Unserious

The article reviews the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla AT, focusing on its performance and fun factor. Despite being slower than a Type R and Hyundai Elantra N, the reviewer enjoyed its playful and serious demeanor. The car's impracticality, including a small trunk and limited carseat space, is overlooked due to its performance capabilities. The reviewer believes the GR Corolla is a performance car that happens to be a hatchback, making it enjoyable to drive, despite its criticisms.

The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla AT, a hot hatchback designed for enthusiasts, has generated considerable buzz in the automotive industry. Despite its slower performance compared to competitors like the Honda Civic Type R and Hyundai Elantra N, the GR Corolla has been praised for its engaging and visceral driving experience. This article delves into the performance and fun factor of the GR Corolla, highlighting its unique characteristics and why it stands out in the segment.

The GR Corolla AT is equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is available in both 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmissions, with all-wheel drive being standard. The car accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 143 mph, making it a formidable performer on the road [1].

One of the standout features of the GR Corolla is its all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability, especially in wet conditions. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires further enhance its grip, ensuring confident handling even in challenging weather. The car's digital dash readout is clear and intuitive, allowing drivers to easily monitor their rev range and engine performance [1].

However, the GR Corolla is not without its practical limitations. Its small trunk space and limited car seat capacity make it less practical for daily commuting or family use. The rear strut brace, while enhancing performance, reduces usable trunk space, and fitting two car seats can be challenging [1]. Despite these practical constraints, the reviewer found that the GR Corolla's performance and driving experience outweighed these drawbacks.

The GR Corolla's performance is not just about speed; it's about the overall driving experience. The car's quick shifts and responsive handling make it a joy to drive, especially on winding roads. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and efficient, ensuring that the driver is always in the powerband [1]. The car's 60/40 power split and all-wheel drive capabilities make it well-suited for both road and off-road adventures.

In conclusion, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla AT is a performance-driven hatchback that offers an engaging and visceral driving experience. Despite being slower than some of its competitors, the GR Corolla's unique blend of performance, handling, and all-wheel drive capabilities make it a standout choice for enthusiasts. Its practical limitations are overlooked in favor of its performance capabilities, making it a fun and exciting car to drive.

References:
[1] https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2025-toyota-gr-corolla-at-quick-review-forget-the-stigma-this-thing-rocks