The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla isn’t just another compact hatchback—it’s a rally-inspired hot hatch designed to shake up the sport compact segment. With bold styling, a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine, and standard all-wheel drive, the GR Corolla blends everyday usability with track-ready performance. If you’re a driving enthusiast searching for a small car that punches way above its weight, the GR Corolla might be the perfect match.
What’s New in the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla?
Toyota introduced the GR Corolla in 2023 as the latest addition to its Gazoo Racing lineup, following the success of the GR Supra and GR86. Built on the Corolla hatchback platform, the GR Corolla adds motorsport DNA and serious performance upgrades. The most notable features include:
- 1.6L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower
- Standard all-wheel drive with driver-selectable torque split
- 6-speed manual transmission only—no automatic option
- Reinforced chassis and wider fenders for an aggressive stance
- Three distinct trims: Core, Circuit Edition, and Morizo Edition
This model was designed in collaboration with Toyota’s racing division and is built in the same facility responsible for their race cars—so it’s no surprise the GR Corolla made Car and Driver's 10Best list for 2023.
2023 Toyota GR Corolla Pricing and Trim Levels
Here’s a breakdown of the GR Corolla’s three trims and their starting prices:
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP | Main Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Core | $36,995 | Base performance, available Performance Package |
| Circuit Edition | $43,995 | Standard limited-slip differentials, upgraded interior |
| Morizo Edition | $51,420 | Track-focused, no rear seats, exclusive wheels & tires |
For most buyers, the Circuit Edition offers the best balance of features and price, while the Morizo Edition caters strictly to purists seeking extreme track performance.
Engine, Transmission & Driving Performance
Under the hood of the GR Corolla is a compact yet mighty 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine—sourced from the GR Yaris and tuned to produce 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. That’s more power than rivals like the Civic Type R or Golf GTI.
Power is sent to all four wheels through Toyota’s GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, which allows drivers to adjust torque split from 60/40 (front/rear) to 30/70 depending on the driving mode. The 6-speed manual transmission offers short throws and satisfying gear engagement, and there's no automatic transmission available—purists rejoice!
The GR Corolla accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. The Circuit Edition comes with front and rear limited-slip differentials for better cornering grip, while the Morizo Edition removes rear seats and other weighty components for a more focused track machine.
Real-World Fuel Economy
While the standard Corolla excels in fuel economy, the GR version is tuned for speed and grip. According to the EPA, the 2023 GR Corolla achieves:
- 21 MPG in the city
- 28 MPG on the highway
- Combined: 24 MPG
Real-world testing shows mixed results, with the car averaging around 23–24 MPG combined and up to 32 MPG on highway runs. That’s impressive for a performance-oriented AWD hot hatch.
Interior Design, Technology & Comfort
The 2023 GR Corolla’s interior is based on the standard Corolla hatchback but adds sporty upgrades that enhance the driving experience. Inside, you’ll find:
- Sport bucket seats with suede and synthetic leather trim
- Aluminum pedals and GR badging
- Ambient lighting and push-button start
- 6-way adjustable driver seat
The Circuit Edition upgrades the cabin with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, suede upholstery, and automatic climate control. The Morizo Edition removes the rear seats entirely for weight reduction, replacing them with a strut brace and cargo tie-downs for track gear.
While cabin space is tight—especially in the rear—the GR Corolla remains practical enough for daily driving, though rear passengers may feel cramped compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf R or Honda Civic Type R.
Infotainment and Connectivity Features
Every GR Corolla is equipped with an intuitive 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired)
- Amazon Alexa built-in
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Optional wireless charging pad
While not as flashy as some luxury competitors, Toyota’s system is easy to use and responsive. However, voice recognition struggles in louder environments, and the wireless charging pad has mixed reviews due to weak grip during hard cornering.
Limited Cargo Space
Cargo capacity in the GR Corolla is limited compared to the regular hatchback. Here's a quick overview:
- Standard GR Corolla hatch: ~17.8 cubic feet
- Morizo Edition: No rear seats but added floor space
Storage cubbies are minimal, and the door bins are unlined, so loose items may rattle. Still, there’s room for a weekend bag or a few groceries—just don’t expect SUV-level practicality.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Toyota equips the GR Corolla with its Safety Sense 3.0 suite, which includes:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian/cyclist detection
- Lane departure alert with steering assist
- Automatic high beams
Optional features include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While these systems are great for daily safety, some feel out of sync with the GR Corolla’s sporty nature, especially the overly cautious lane-keeping assist—which, fortunately, can be disabled.
Warranty and Toyota Ownership Perks
The 2023 GR Corolla is covered by Toyota’s standard warranty package:
- 3-year / 36,000-mile limited warranty
- 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 2 years / 25,000 miles complimentary scheduled maintenance
- 2 years roadside assistance
As a bonus, every GR Corolla purchase includes a 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA), which includes a complimentary high-performance driving event—perfect for testing the GR Corolla’s limits.
Should You Buy the 2023 GR Corolla?
If you’re looking for a compact hatchback that blends practicality with thrilling performance, the 2023 GR Corolla checks nearly every box. It competes with the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, and Hyundai Elantra N, but stands out with its AWD system, rally roots, and aggressive design.
While the Core model offers value with available performance upgrades, the Circuit Edition strikes the best balance between features and price. Hardcore enthusiasts will appreciate the track-ready Morizo Edition, though it trades daily usability for performance purity.
Final Verdict: GR Corolla Delivers Thrills Without Sacrificing Toyota Reliability
With the 2023 GR Corolla, Toyota proves that even the practical Corolla can become a performance icon. It brings genuine motorsport DNA to the road, offering precision handling, turbocharged power, and the dependability Toyota is known for. It’s one of the most exciting and accessible hot hatches on the market today.
Related Articles
- 2023 Honda Civic Type R vs GR Corolla: Which Hot Hatch Wins?
- The Evolution of Toyota's GR Lineup
- Top 5 AWD Sport Compacts in 2023