Toyota GR Corolla is more track fun than VW Golf GTI fast

Toyota has recently introduced the GR Corolla with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which has sparked comparisons to the more popular VW Golf GTI. The GR Corolla is powered by a 1.6-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine, producing 210kW and 400Nm of torque. It can reach 100km/h in 5.99 seconds with Launch Control activated, but this is 0.4 seconds slower than its manual counterpart and slower than the GTI, which reaches 100km/h in 5.81 seconds.

One reason for the slower acceleration is the Corolla's heavier weight of 1,500kg compared to the manual GR at 1,475kg and the GTI's 1,349kg. The launch of the GR Corolla is also too mild, which contributes to its less impressive straight-line speed. However, the GR Corolla truly shines when driven on corners or wet roads, where its Torsen limited-slip differentials, rebound springs, and revised rear suspension geometry provide sharp handling and excitement.

The GR Corolla boasts three distinctive drivetrain modes – Normal, Gravel, and Track. Normal mode provides a balanced 60:40 torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, while Gravel mode shares the torque equally at 50:50, ideal for wet conditions or dirt roads. Track mode (Adaptive 60:40 to 30:70) adjusts the torque distribution based on steering angle, throttle input, and vehicle speed, providing optimal traction for various corners and conditions.

Inside the GR Corolla, there are several refinements and upgrades, including chrome finishes replaced with GR gun metallic accents, standard upgraded audio systems, active noise control, a reverse camera, and blind-spot monitoring with Safe Exit Assist. The car also features a Head-Up Display, Blind Spot Monitor, seven-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Adaptive High-Speed Cruise Control, and a reverse camera, all of which contribute to an enhanced driving experience.