Toyota has introduced the GRMN Corolla, a high-performance variant of its compact hatchback that removes the rear seats and relies exclusively on a six-speed manual transmission. The automaker stated that production will be strictly limited to 730 examples worldwide.
Total global production limit for the Toyota GRMN Corolla.
The vehicle features a two-seat configuration with semi-bucket sport seats covered in faux suede and leatherette. The dashboard is finished with motorsport-inspired flocking, while forged carbon fiber trim includes a signature from Akio Toyoda, known as Morizo, on the passenger side. Each car is issued with its own serialized plaque.
Under the hood, the GRMN Corolla produces 300 horsepower (224 kW), matching the output of the standard GR Corolla. However, torque has been increased to 302 lb-ft (410 Nm), a rise of 7 lb-ft over the standard model. This torque boost is specifically tuned for the range between 4,000 and 4,600 rpm. An intercooler spray system is fitted to help maintain engine output during intense use.
Weight reduction efforts include the removal of rear seats and the use of carbon fiber body panels for the hood and fenders. Reports on the exact weight savings differ; some sources state the car is 66 pounds (30 kg) lighter than the standard GR Corolla, while others cite a reduction of 77 pounds compared to the lightest GR Corolla variant.
The suspension system features front and rear monotube dampers with rebound springs and long travel, with reworked bump stops designed to handle pavement conditions similar to those at the Nürburgring. The aerodynamics were developed using lessons learned from the hydrogen-engine Corolla race car in the Super Taikyu series. An adjustable rear wing offers five positions, adjustable in one-degree intervals.
The car rides on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which were previously exclusive to the GR Corolla Morizo Edition. The all-wheel-drive system is calibrated to provide more rear torque distribution when driving in a straight line. Specific gear ratios include 3.214:1 for first gear and 1.592:1 for third gear.
Pricing and Market Position
Pricing figures for the GRMN Corolla vary across reports. One figure lists a starting MSRP of $64,360 before destination charges, while other sources cite $65,655 or $65,665. The destination charge for this specific model has not been disclosed, though the standard GR Corolla carries a $1,295 fee.
The price represents a significant premium over the standard 2026 GR Corolla. Base prices for the standard model are reported between $40,520 and $41,815, depending on the source and inclusion of fees. This places the GRMN Corolla approximately $23,000 to $24,000 above the base model, though some summaries estimate the premium at around $20,000.
In the broader market, the GRMN Corolla’s price is close to the Toyota GR Supra Final Edition, which starts at $70,645. It is priced about $5,000 less than a BMW M2 and $3,000 less than a Nissan Z Nismo. Compared to other hot hatches, it costs $13,630 more than a Volkswagen Golf R, $15,770 more than a Honda Civic Type R, and $2,860 more than a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
Primary allocation for the vehicle is directed toward North America, Japan, and Australia. The specific number of units allocated to the United States remains unknown. Buyers will receive a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) and complimentary access to a high-performance driving event.
Reports indicate the GRMN Corolla is scheduled to go on sale in late summer 2025. This release follows the earlier launch of the standard GR Corolla and the limited US sale of 200 units of the GR Corolla Morizo Edition.