This is the Toyota GRMN Corolla, a more hardcore version of the GR Corolla developed with lessons from motorsports and Nurburgring testing. The GRMN badge stands for “Gazoo Racing Masters of Nurburgring”, and this latest model marks the return of the name after the GRMN Yaris. Unlike a regular GR Corolla, the focus here is
This is the Toyota GRMN Corolla, a more hardcore version of the GR Corolla developed with lessons from motorsports and Nurburgring testing.
The GRMN badge stands for “Gazoo Racing Masters of Nurburgring”, and this latest model marks the return of the name after the GRMN Yaris. Unlike a regular GR Corolla, the focus here is not on adding more power, but on improving high-speed stability, cornering performance and circuit durability.
Power still comes from the G16E-GTS 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 305 PS. However, peak torque has increased by 15 Nm to 415 Nm, with Toyota placing particular focus on improving mid-range torque between 3,600 rpm and 4,800 rpm for stronger corner-exit acceleration. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Toyota has not announced an automatic version of the GRMN Corolla.
A water-spray intercooler system has also been added to support sustained full-throttle performance. Toyota says learnings from the liquid hydrogen-powered Corolla race car used in Japan’s Super Taikyu series contributed to the improvements.
The GRMN Corolla also receives a significant aero package, with many elements made from carbon fibre. These include a carbon bonnet with a horizontal duct, carbon front fenders with air outlets, additional front bumper spoilers and a large adjustable rear wing.
The rear wing can be adjusted in one-degree increments, while the front and side aero elements are designed to improve high-speed stability and airflow management. The car rides on 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels finished in bronze, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. These tyres are 10 mm wider than the regular GR Corolla’s setup.
Toyota has also revised the chassis for more consistent performance on track. The GRMN Corolla gets new monotube dampers with internal rebound springs, optimised bump stops and revised suspension tuning aimed at improving inner-wheel traction and high-speed cornering.
The electric power steering has been retuned to maintain consistent weight under high lateral loads, while the GR-Four all-wheel drive system has been recalibrated for enhanced rear torque distribution and improved cornering stability at very high speeds.