Hold onto your hats, folks—Toyota's hot hatch, the GR Corolla, is getting an update that promises to thrill even the most ardent manual enthusiasts. Come late 2024, you can snag a 2025 GR Corolla equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, boasting more torque and superior cooling to boot.

For the past two years, the GR Corolla has been the purist's playground with its singular six-speed manual transmission. Now, Toyota’s stepping up the game by introducing the Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission. This isn't just any auto box—it's got launch control, paddle shifters, and bespoke software that sets it apart from its GR Supra and GR86 siblings. Rather than relying solely on speed and g-force, this clever unit uses your inputs on the brake and accelerator pedals to nail the perfect shift timing.

The GR Corolla isn't just about a new transmission. It's got four drive modes—Normal, Sport, Eco, and Custom. Sport mode is where the magic happens, with shift points tuned to mimic the manual's gear ratios. Plus, the automatic variant comes with a transmission cooler as standard, ensuring it stays frosty during those track days.

Under the hood, the turbocharged 1.6-litre G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine remains a powerhouse, still churning out a robust 224 kW. Torque, however, gets a bump from 370 Nm to a thrilling 400 Nm. The all-wheel-drive system now features front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials as standard—a feature previously reserved for the higher trims.

Toyota’s engineers have been busy refining the suspension too. They've added rebound springs at both ends to curb inner wheel lift during spirited driving. The rear now boasts upgraded coils and stabilizers, with the trailing arm mounting point raised to reduce squat during hard acceleration.

The facelifted front bumper is more than just a pretty face. It features enhanced brake ducts and a new air curtain construction that reduces turbulence around the tyres, boosting stability. This redesign also accommodates the automatic transmission cooler and an optional sub-radiator.

Trim-wise, the 2025 GR Corolla will be available in Core, Premium, and Premium Plus trims, with the Circuit Edition bidding us farewell. The top-tier Premium Plus comes loaded with a carbon-fibre roof, vented bulge hood, head-up display, and more. Inside, you'll find refreshed trim finishes and switches throughout the cabin.

Eighteen-inch, 15-spoke alloy wheels come standard on the Core and Premium trims, while the Premium Plus sports 18-inch matte black wheels. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres ensure grip across all models, and each GR Corolla includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 and a complimentary one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association.

The 2025 GR Corolla is a testament to Toyota's commitment to delivering an exhilarating driving experience, now with the added convenience of an automatic transmission. It's not just an upgrade—it's a new chapter for this hot hatch icon.