2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review, Specs, Dimensions

2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review, Specs, Dimensions  –  I initially traveled to Vancouver Island for this purpose. The chance to test drive the brand-new 2026 Toyota GR Corolla served as the true impetus for this. It was the catalyst that started the process. I’ve been experiencing a combination of cautious excitement and dread ever since the initial internet assertions of its existence. Recently, I’ve been battling a mix of excitement and fear. When the moment arrived, I couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel.  2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review

If I were to go across the nation in search of a weapon-grade Corolla, it seems to me that I would bring along a cherished pastime and a reliable travel partner. This is the most effective method for me to accomplish my goal, in my view. After that, I planned to get an early plane to the west, where I would spend the weekend wreaking havoc on the Comox Valley’s mountain bike trails before heading to the track. The track would be the next destination.

2026 Toyota GR Corolla Redesign and Update Plan

Exterior and Interior

It was time to head to the office, alas. I was driving this ridiculous new Corolla, but neither the track day nor that fact itself caused any further problems. Neither of these claims is necessarily correct. Although it may sound like a crazy notion, it’s actually rather civilized when you put a 300 horsepower three-cylinder engine under the hood of an all-wheel-drive vehicle that weighs less than 1,500 kilograms (3,307 pounds).

With that out of the way, let’s take a look at this sporty hatchback’s foundational model, the Toyota Corolla. Even while it isn’t quite sporty, the combination of its short wheelbase and rigid chassis has always given it an irreverent side, making it fascinating to play around with. This is because there has always been an element of playfulness in it. In conclusion, the door to achievement has always been open. The reason for this being the case is that it has always been there. Thanks to the crazy scientists on Toyota’s Gazoo Racing team, the product now has the long-awaited go-fast goods. For that, you should be grateful to them.  2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review

Some characteristics, such a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, may be immediately recognizable. A 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine sits between the former’s front fenders. The second one has three separate directions of torque transmission. A 50/50 split is available for usage on the track, a 60/40 split gives more power to the front wheels, and a 30/70 split gives more power to the rear wheels for more fun tail-wagging. Three other configurations are also available to individuals.

2026 Toyota GR Corolla Specs

Looking at the differences between the Circuit trim and the one upon which the unique Morizo trim is based, the tires stick out the most. It is more accurate than adding additional boost pressure, which increases torque even more, or removing the back seat, which helps keep the vehicle lightweight. The torque of the vehicle is enhanced by the combined action of all these components.  2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review

Michelin Pilot Sport 4s are used by both teams; however, the Cup 2s are significantly better. The Morizo deftly climbed out of them and continued on to the next one, even though the early asphalt was dangerous due to the unexpected snowstorm. Even though the snowfall had occurred at such a small hour in the morning, this remained.

Engine and Performance

One of the best instances of a car that seems designed specifically for the VIMC is the 2026 Toyota GR Corolla. This circuit is located in Washington, British Columbia. This intricate and narrow track occupies just over 33 acres, in stark contrast to the nearly 260 acres occupied by the grand prix circuit at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (CTMP). There you can find the Canadian track. Not only does the track span 2.3 miles of asphalt, but it also boasts 19 twists and a considerable degree of elevation change. Because of its compact size and easy maneuverability, this location is perfect for a playground, made possible by its all-wheel drive and high-revving-capacity engine.

As the vehicle crested the initial hill into turn three, the potency of the turbocharged engine became immediately obvious. This occurred while we were intensely pursuing a Toyota Supra equipped with a manual transmission. When you crank up the boost pressure and the GR Corolla confidently accelerates, any concerns about the reliability of a three-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower vanish in an instant.     2026 Toyota GR Corolla Images

2026 Toyota GR Corolla Fuel Economy

Turns four through seven, a rapid sequence of curves that had both uphill and downhill sections as well as off-camber elements, were about to commence. The moment has come to begin after maintaining a constant throttle for the entire ninety degrees. I had to let off the accelerator pedal now that the Supra’s back bumper was getting scraped by the energetic and nimble hot hatch I was flying, the Morizo Edition.

Behind the wheel of the Supra was I. Even with the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires locking onto the road and the limited-slip differentials working overtime, pressing down on the throttle doesn’t do anything. The same is true regardless of how hard you press down on the accelerator.     2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review

2026 Toyota GR Corolla Safety Features

It is remarkable for a vehicle with such a purposeful design to be able to meet standards while also enjoying its leisure capabilities on public roads. Its powers for careening illegally down backroads are unmatched, even by the coupe trim level, the Toyota GR86. The four doors of the GR86 are responsible for this. I last felt this kind of joy behind the wheel of a strictly limited-edition, breathtaking Ford Fiesta ST, and it was while staying well inside the speed limit.

While it’s still easy to get into problems when driving too enthusiastically, there are ways to navigate, such shifting into fourth gear with the manual transmission and keeping the speed below 100 kph. The small gear ratio of the manual gearbox is the reason behind this. You won’t feel like you’re losing out on many opportunities because to the auto rev-matching technology, which makes even the most routine corners feel more thrilling than they actually are. There is a huge perk to this. Another option for a pleasant ride is to fine-tune the suspension to your preferred amount of softness. Another possible strategy is this one.  2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review

2026 Toyota GR Corolla Price and Release Date

At $45,490 (without including taxes and freight), the base Core trim is competitively priced in its niche market. Starting at $47,495 with basic all-wheel drive and an optional automatic transmission for an extra $1,300, the Volkswagen Golf R is one option. A much improved variant of the Civic, the $50,050 Civic Type R was also produced by Honda for the 2026 model year. The first year for this car to be sold was 2026. Next to the Hyundai Kona N, there’s the Hyundai Elantra N, which is like a little sister to both of those cars. At $37,499 (or $39,099 with the automatic), the latter is the most affordable alternative, while the most expensive one is the Kona with an automatic transmission, which comes to $40,299 in total.

When equipped with the Circuit trim level, the GR Corolla begins to differentiate itself from rivals in terms of affordability. At this tier, in contrast to the Core tier, you have access to more performance and comfort facilities. A carbon fiber roof, suede upholstery, heated controls, and a hood vent are all part of the package. Without taxes and shipping, the starting price for the Circuit trim level is $53,990.

Another choice is the Morizo Edition, which deviates from the base model in a number of ways and comes without some basic equipment like heated front seats and a steering wheel. Includes rear seats, door speakers, and window motors. Those grippy tires, forged alloy wheels, and more torque can be yours for $59,990. Everything listed above is included in the package.  2026 Toyota GR Corolla Review