2024 Toyota GR Corolla Review: The Manual Transmission Fun Machine

When it comes to hot hatches, Toyota has been stepping up its game in recent years and the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla is proof. With its aggressive styling, rally-inspired engineering, and a focus on pure driving enjoyment, the GR Corolla has quickly become a favorite among hot hatch enthusiasts. In our review, we’re focusing specifically on the 6-speed manual transmission variant. How does it compare to other sporty cars in its segment? How does it compare to its automatic sibling? Let’s find out.

Aggressive Looks with Serious Intent

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla doesn’t just look sporty; it is sporty. Wide fender flares, functional air vents, and a large rear spoiler give it a not so subtle muscular and purposeful stance. The three-exit exhaust at the back screams performance. The available color palette including bold options like Supersonic Red and Heavy Metal, ensures it turns heads wherever it goes.

What’s Under the Hood?

The GR Corolla packs a big punch with its little turbocharged engine.

Here are the key specs:

• Engine: 1.6L 3-cylinder turbocharged engine (G16E-GTS)
• Horsepower: 300 hp
• Torque: 273 lb-ft
• Transmission Options: 6-speed manual or automatic
• Drivetrain: GR-Four AWD system with adjustable torque distribution
• Performance Features:
  • Torsen limited-slip differentials (front and rear)
  • Track-tuned suspension
  • Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires

This is a car designed to put a smile on your face whether you’re carving up your favorite curvy back roads or attacking your local autocross course.

Driving Experience: Why the Manual Transmission Stands Out

The 6-speed manual transmission in the GR Corolla isn’t an afterthought. The manual is a central part of the car’s identity and here’s why:

• Engagement: The manual transmission allows you to feel more connected to the car, with precise shifts and a clutch that strikes the right balance between light and tactile.
• Control: The ability to choose your gear adds a level of control that automatics can’t quite match, especially when driving spiritedly.
• Fun Factor: Let’s face it: rev-matching downshifts and perfectly executed upshifts are just more satisfying with a manual.

Compared to the automatic variant, which is still quick and certainly more convenient, the manual offers a more visceral and rewarding experience. The automatic may have the edge in traffic or for daily commutes, but for most purists (over 35 years old at least), rowing your own gears will always be the clear winner.

Interior: Sporty and Functional

Inside, the GR Corolla strikes a balance between practicality and performance-oriented design. Here’s what you can expect:

• Seating: Sports seats with ample bolstering and optional leather-trimmed upholstery.
• Infotainment:
  • Standard 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Boomin’ Premium JBL audio system (optional).
• Digital Cluster: A customizable 12.3-inch digital instrument display that shows everything from AWD settings to turbo boost pressure.
• Cargo Space: While it’s a hatchback, the aggressive design slightly compromises rear cargo capacity.
• Build Quality: Decent quality materials throughout, with a driver-focused layout.

GR Corolla Trims & Pricing

The 2024 GR Corolla comes in multiple trims to cater to different needs:

1. Core

   • Keyless entry.
   • Fabric sport seats.
   • Starting at around $36,000.

2. Circuit Edition

   • Carbon-fiber roof.
   • Heated front seats and steering wheel.
   • Mid-$40,000 range.

3. Morizo Edition

   • Lightweight and track-focused.
   • Enhanced torque (295 lb-ft).
   • Limited production, priced close to $50,000.

Competitors: How Does the GR Corolla Stack Up?

The GR Corolla doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Here are some of its main competitors:

1. Honda Civic Type R

• Price: Starts around $43,000.
• Strengths: Stellar handling, spacious interior, and iconic reliability.
• Why it’s a competitor: The Type R is often seen as the benchmark for front-wheel-drive performance cars.

2. Volkswagen Golf R

• Price: Starts around $45,000.
• Strengths: Refined interior, AWD, and excellent performance.
• Why it’s a competitor: Like the GR Corolla, it offers AWD and is a favorite among enthusiasts.

3. Subaru WRX

• Price: Starts around $30,000.
• Strengths: Standard AWD, rugged appeal, and affordability.
• Why it’s a competitor: The WRX offers similar rally-inspired fun at a lower price point.

4. Hyundai Elantra N

• Price: Starts around $33,000.
• Strengths: Aggressive styling, strong performance, and great value.
• Why it’s a competitor: The Elantra N punches above its weight in terms of fun and affordability.

Comparing the Manual and Automatic GR Corolla

While both transmission options have their merits, they cater to different types of drivers. Here’s a quick comparison:

Manual Transmission

• Pros:

  • Greater driver engagement.
  • More rewarding for enthusiasts.
  • Slightly lighter.

• Cons:

  • Requires more effort in stop-and-go traffic.

Automatic Transmission

• Pros:

  • Easier to drive in stop and go urban settings.
  • Quicker acceleration (slightly better 0-60 times).
  • Appeals to a broader audience.

• Cons:

  • Less engaging for purists.
  • Easier to steal because many dumb thieves these days don’t know how to drive stick.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on how you plan to use the car. Are you seeking a daily driver with some weekend fun, or are you after the purest and most engaging driving experience possible?

Would You Take a GR Corolla?

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla is a remarkable entry in the hot hatch segment. Its rally-bred DNA, engaging manual transmission, and aggressive styling make it a standout choice. But how does it fare against the likes of the Civic Type R or the Golf R? That depends on what you value most.

Although some hot hatches have died off, such as the renowned Ford Focus RS, the 2024 GR Corolla proves that this fun car segment is far from dead, and we couldn’t be happier about it. Would you choose the GR Corolla for its AWD capabilities and Toyota’s legendary reliability, or does another competitor catch your eye?   Let us know in the comments.