The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a hot hatch that brings rally-inspired performance to the streets, offering an exhilarating driving experience. Developed by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, the GR Corolla is built for enthusiasts seeking a blend of everyday practicality with track-ready capabilities.
On the outside, the GR Corolla flaunts a muscular, aggressive design that sets it apart from the standard Corolla. The widened fenders, sporty rear diffuser, and large front grille give it a bold presence. A prominent rear spoiler, triple exhaust tips, and unique GR badging further emphasize its performance-oriented nature. The 18-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in high-performance tires, complement the overall stance, hinting at the car’s athleticism.
Under the hood, the GR Corolla is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine that pumps out an impressive 300 horsepower. This is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced all-wheel-drive system that allows drivers to adjust torque distribution for various driving conditions. The powertrain delivers quick acceleration, making it one of the most exciting compact cars in its class.
Driving the GR Corolla is an engaging experience. The precise steering and sharp handling make it agile on twisty roads, while the all-wheel-drive system offers excellent grip and stability. The engine provides ample power across the rev range, and the manual transmission shifts smoothly. Whether on a racetrack or a spirited drive through mountain roads, the GR Corolla feels responsive and planted.
Despite its performance capabilities, the GR Corolla manages respectable fuel economy for a hot hatch. It achieves an estimated 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, which is decent for a performance-focused vehicle. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient Corolla, it’s a reasonable trade-off considering its power and handling.
Safety is well-addressed in the GR Corolla, with Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver-assist features coming as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The all-wheel-drive system also enhances safety by providing better traction in various road conditions.
Inside, the GR Corolla’s cabin is both functional and driver-focused. The front sport seats offer excellent support during aggressive driving, and the overall build quality is solid, with soft-touch materials and a clean design. While rear-seat space is somewhat limited, especially for taller passengers, the hatchback design provides decent cargo space for a performance car.
The 2023 GR Corolla is also packed with modern technology. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster displays key driving information, while the standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system is intuitive, and the controls are well-placed for ease of use during driving. Wireless charging, navigation, and premium audio options are available as well.
The GR Corolla is available in three trims: Core, Circuit Edition, and Morizo Edition. The Core trim, starting at around $36,995, is well-equipped with standard features, while the Circuit Edition adds performance upgrades like a carbon-fiber roof and limited-slip differentials for around $43,995. The Morizo Edition is the most exclusive and track-focused variant, offering even more weight reduction, aggressive suspension tuning, and increased torque, with prices exceeding $50,000.
The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla delivers an impressive package for enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience in a practical, compact form. Its sharp styling, robust powertrain, and advanced technology make it a standout in the hot hatch segment, offering both daily usability and track-day excitement, just don’t forget to wipe the grin off your face.
