Toyota's GR Corolla Development Vehicle hints at racing DNA

Just days before the first round of Formula Drift on the streets of Long Beach, Toyota pulled the wraps off three new models at Thunder Studios, setting the tone for an action-filled weekend. RACER was on hand for the exclusive reveal, where the spotlight shone brightest on the highly anticipated GR Corolla Development Vehicle—a car that signals an exciting new chapter in Toyota’s motorsports-inspired performance lineup.

Toyota’s GR Corolla has already carved a reputation as one of the most thrilling hot hatches on the market, but this new Development Vehicle takes things to another level. While full details still remain under wraps, the GR Corolla Development Vehicle definitely hints at a more track-focused iteration. Chief engineer Sakamoto-san stated that this car lapped Fuji Speedway a second faster than the GR Corolla Morizo Edition, which is the current top of the foodchain limited edition track going Corolla. He was pretty tight-lipped because things are still in “development” but he said that the aero and suspension performance upgrades are resulting in sharper handling contributing to the faster lap times. This car is aimed at pushing the envelope for Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division.

Given Toyota’s deep roots in motorsports, this latest GR Corolla evolution has the potential to bridge the gap between road-going excitement and track-bred dominance. Seeing it in person, with its menacing stance and purposeful design, left us eager to see what this machine can do when on a circuit. They say that the Gazoo Racing Team is just fine tuning it for Akio ‘Morizo’ Toyoda to take it on a final test drive for approval.

GR Supra MkV Final Edition: A proper sendoff

Also making waves at the event was the GR Supra MkV Final Edition. The GR Supra MkV Final Edition isn’t just a commemorative badge — it’s a refinement of an already-potent platform. Enthusiasts will appreciate the 382-horsepower 3.0L turbocharged inline-six, now paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed automatic for optimal performance.

Toyota engineers have fine-tuned the chassis with updated adaptive dampers, a retuned limited-slip differential, and enhanced braking performance via Brembo six-piston front calipers and four-piston rears.

Additionally, Final Edition-exclusive lightweight forged wheels reduce unsprung weight, sharpening cornering response. Toyota also offers unique exterior colors and interior trims, making this Supra a collector’s item while striving to be one of the better-handling sports cars on the market.

GR86 Yuzu Special Edition: A bold statement

The GR86 Yuzu Special Edition isn’t just about its eye-catching yellow paint—it brings a series of dynamic upgrades to Toyota’s lightweight, 2.4L flat-four, rear-wheel-drive coupe. With 228 horsepower and a 7,400 rpm redline, the GR86 maintains its reputation for high-revving excitement.

For this special edition, Toyota claims it has enhanced the steering feel and suspension tuning, making it even more responsive for track days and canyon runs. The GR86’s Torsen limited-slip differential, paired with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, ensures that every ounce of its lightweight, sub-2,900-lb chassis is put to good use when carving through tight corners.

To amplify the driving experience, the GR86 Yuzu Special Edition also receives a cat-back performance exhaust, giving it a deeper, more aggressive tone—something we will love every time we open up the throttle but maybe not our neighbors at 6AM when we roll out for a cars and coffee.
This car hits dealerships this fall.

The future of GR Performance

With these three unveilings, Toyota reinforced its commitment to performance enthusiasts, blending heritage with innovation. For RACER, the GR Corolla Development Vehicle stands out as a glimpse into what’s next for Gazoo Racing’s road cars, potentially paving the way for an even more focused and exhilarating lineup in the future.

As Formula Drift Long Beach kicks off, Toyota-backed drivers Ken Gushi, Fredric Aasbo and Ryan Tuerck will be pushing the limits of their GR machines on the track, proving once again that Toyota’s racing DNA runs deep in the world of drifting.

One thing is certain — Toyota isn’t slowing down anytime soon, whether going sideways or not.