SHERIDAN, WYOMING – October 12, 2024 – The GR Corolla lineup is expanding for model year 2025 with the addition of the available 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) with paddle shifters. Now there is an option for both hardcore enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of a manual transmission and those who'd rather focus on dynamic handling in the automatic transmission.
Developed and inspired by track driving, the GR Corolla has been tested by rally and racing drivers on some of the most complex courses in the world like the Fuji International Speedway. Through their development efforts, the GR team increased engine torque on the GR Corolla from 273 lb.-ft. to 295 lb.-ft. – matching that of the 2023 Morizo special edition.
For 2025, the suspension has also been retuned resulting in epic cornering in a vehicle that is sure to impress. Changes have also been made to the front bumper to accommodate new available cooling components like an optional sub-radiator and an Automatic Transmission Fluid cooler (only on the DAT). These additions help provide additional cooling performance while simultaneously retaining aerodynamic performance.
In designing the available 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT), Toyota focused on achieving the fastest possible downshift speed. Optimized for sporty driving, the DAT control software delicately senses the way the driver steps on the brakes and operates the accelerator. With these inputs, it anticipates when gear shifting is optimal even before changes in vehicle behavior occur, achieving a gear selection that reflects the driver's intentions and, thus, leads to shifting that is similar to that of professional drivers. The DAT allows drivers to focus more on acceleration/braking and steering maneuvers, so drivers may be able to drive faster if they decide to hit the track. As a result, it opens up possibilities for a wider range of drivers to enjoy sports track driving.
The Toyota GR development team used circuit and rally driving courses as a basis for setting the DAT's close gear ratio. Increasing the number of gears from six to eight allows the transmission to have closer ratios and helps maximize delivery of engine power and torque to the wheels and enables optimal performance. Even casual highway driving has an energetic feel, due to the eight-speed transmission optimizing RPMs while at cruising speeds.
During track testing, the system proved to be impressive, helping to secure speedy lap times. To address issues including the vulnerability of automatic systems to heat damage and the need to balance high shift speed with drivability, GR engineers carried out repeated materials and software revisions. The testing process included TGR World Rally Team drivers putting it through its paces on different surfaces, including snow-covered roads in Finland. The unit was also used in the Japan Rally Championship, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Rally Challenge and the Super Taikyu Series.