Toyota reveals most powerful GRMN Corolla yet, sales begin in 2027

Toyota Motor has unveiled the latest GRMN Corolla, a limited-production performance version of the GR Corolla developed on Germany's Nürburgring circuit, with sales planned in selected markets from 2027.

The new model was revealed by Toyota's GAZOO Racing division and will be offered primarily in Japan, North America and Australia. In Japan, the company plans to begin accepting purchase requests through its GR smartphone app in autumn 2026, ahead of sales scheduled for 2027. 

The vehicle is currently on display at the Fuji Motorsports Forest Welcome Center until June 28.

Toyota said the GRMN Corolla was developed under the direction of Chairman Akio Toyoda, also known as "Morizo," with extensive testing carried out at the Nürburgring and in Japan's Super Taikyu racing series. The company said the project aimed to create a car capable of maintaining driver control at all speeds and road conditions.

The vehicle features exclusive front and rear monotube shock absorbers with rebound springs, revised bump-stop characteristics and a specially tuned suspension developed through Nürburgring testing. It also receives wider 245/40ZR18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, which are 10 millimetres wider than those fitted to the standard GR Corolla.

Toyota has also modified the electric power steering system and introduced a dedicated four-wheel-drive control programme designed to improve rear torque distribution and vehicle stability at high speeds.

The GRMN Corolla produces a maximum torque output of 415 Nm, an increase of 15 Nm over the standard model. Toyota said improvements were achieved using lessons learned from its hydrogen-powered GR Corolla racing programme in the Super Taikyu Series, with particular attention given to increasing torque in the 3,600-4,800 rpm range to improve acceleration out of corners.

To maintain performance during extended high-load driving, the car is equipped with an intercooler spray system and an additional cool-air duct. The company said the vehicle's power-to-weight ratio has been improved through a 30-kilogram weight reduction, including the removal of rear seats.

Inside, the GRMN Corolla features a custom-designed full bucket driver's seat constructed from glass fibre-reinforced polymer, along with a redesigned cockpit intended to improve driver focus and vehicle control. Additional features include a flocked instrument panel, carbon-fibre trim, Morizo's signature on the dashboard and a GRMN-exclusive serial number plate.

Toyota said technologies developed during the GRMN Corolla programme have already influenced the 2026 GR Corolla, including additional structural adhesive reinforcement and improved intake cooling systems.