More than a year after Toyota announced it was developing a higher-torque version of the GR Corolla, the company has confirmed that the model will carry the GRMN designation, short for “Gazoo Racing Meister of the Nürburgring.” While the changes do not radically transform the car, they affect the powertrain, aerodynamics, suspension, and interior.
The GRMN Corolla draws on lessons learned from Toyota’s hydrogen-powered GR Corolla race car. The result is a model positioned as the most extreme variant of the current Corolla performance lineup, with production intended primarily for Japan, North America, and Australia.
More Torque From the Turbocharged Three-Cylinder
Toyota has retained the turbocharged 1.6-liter G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine used in the GR Corolla, GR Yaris, and GRMN Yaris. Output remains unchanged at 300 horsepower, but torque rises from 295 lb-ft to 302 lb-ft (410 Nm) in the GRMN Corolla.
Motor1 reports that the Japanese-market version produces slightly more torque, rated at 306 lb-ft (415 Nm). Toyota says the increase was achieved through knowledge gained while testing the GR Corolla race car equipped with a hydrogen-fueled engine.
The manufacturer also states that the engine now delivers more torque through the midrange. A newly added intercooler spray system helps maintain optimal temperatures during demanding driving conditions to support sustained power delivery.
Weight Reduction and Track-Focused Hardware
Echoing the earlier Morizo Edition, the GRMN Corolla removes the rear seats, reducing vehicle weight by 66 pounds (30 kilograms) compared with the standard GR Corolla.
Aerodynamic changes derived from Toyota’s hydrogen race car include a five-way adjustable rear wing, hood ducts, front fender ducts, and front side spoilers. The bodywork is intended to improve airflow and track performance.
The tire and wheel package has also been revised. While the standard GR Corolla uses 235/40R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, the GRMN receives wider 245/40 ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires mounted on 18-inch forged 10-spoke wheels finished in matte bronze. The wheels carry GR branding instead of Toyota logos as part of Toyota’s effort to further establish Gazoo Racing as a standalone performance sub-brand.
Toyota has also fitted new front and rear monotube shock absorbers. Engineers additionally revised the all-wheel-drive system and electric power steering to enhance track capability.
A Redesigned Cabin and Limited Production Hints
The interior receives several changes beyond the removal of the rear seats. North American models are equipped with semi-bucket sport seats, while Japanese and Australian versions receive a full bucket driver’s seat designed to provide greater lateral support.
Toyota developed and manufactures the carbon-fiber trim found on the passenger side of the dashboard in-house. The cabin also features an Alumite Red finish on the door trim and shift knob.
Toyota has not disclosed production numbers, though the serial-number plate positioned above the manual transmission shifter has attracted attention. The plate displays only three digits, suggesting limited availability, although the numbering system could differ between regions.
Pricing has not yet been announced. The GRMN Corolla will be sold mainly in Japan, North America, and Australia. As a 2026 model-year vehicle, it is expected to reach the U.S. market in the coming months. The standard GR Corolla currently starts at $41,415 before options.
