2026 GRMN Corolla Is the Ultimate GR Hot HatchToyota (Toyota)The evolution of the Toyota GR Corolla never stops. On Tuesday, Toyota presented the most extreme version yet: the 2026 GRMN Corolla. And there are two bits of good news here: the updates to this car are extensive; and the car is coming to North America.The 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder is massaged for an extra seven pound-feet of torque, leaving the new totals at 300 hp and 302 lb-ft. Specifically, engineers focused on increasing torque in the 4000–4600 rpm range to improve acceleration out of corners on the racetrack. In fact, every alteration made to the GRMN is designed to benefit it on the track; the company says testing on the Nurburgring and lessons learned from competition in the Super Taikyu racing series guided development of each change versus the standard GR Corolla.Toyota (Toyota)The most obvious outward tweaks come from unique exterior aero bits. A new hood duct, fender ducts, front side spoilers and large rear wing (with five-step adjustment) look wild and provide functional downforce. All of the above are made out of carbon fiber, too, reducing weight.AdvertisementAdvertisementGRMN-dedicated front and rear monotube shock absorbers are paired with new rebound springs to improve “inner-wheel traction during cornering.” The extensive 'Ring testing led to Toyota tuning these shocks to handle the brutal ups and downs and suspension travel induced by the track. Special attention was paid to the bump-stop characteristics, and the stroke of the shock is dialed in to provide the optimal balance for a bumpy course.Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires with 10mm wider section width than standard are mounted to forged wheels painted in matte bronze. The electric power steering system is re-tuned with a different level of assistance torque under high g-forces. Toyota says the GRMN Corolla has “exclusive AWD control tuning,” but doesn’t detail exactly what’s changed. Plus, there should be no cooling issues out on the track thanks to a new intercooler spray system that maintains stable engine output during sustained full-throttle driving.Toyota (Toyota)Total weight reduction for the GRMN versus a regular GR Corolla sits at 66 pounds, most of which comes by way of removing the rear seats. (Yes, it’s a two-seater.) It has some particularly high-bolstered suede and synthetic leather seats fitted and upholstered in a black and red two-tone design. The red accents continue on the door trim and shift knob. A unique “flocked” instrument panel replaces the standard one; plus, you get a passenger side dash panel bearing the signature of "Morizo"—a.k.a. Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda. A GRMN serial number plate is also fitted, for good measure.Toyota (Toyota)The exclusive badging continues on the exterior, with dark Toyota logos and a GRMN emblem. Toyota says it will be available in either Gravel (dark gray) or Zero Gravity (white) paint colors. Unfortunately, the Black Gravite (just above) color launched for the Japan market version of this car doesn’t appear to be on the list for us in the U.S. Another thing we’re missing out on are the full bucket seats (below) on Japan’s car that look especially difficult to get in and out of.Toyota (Toyota)Morizo’s directive for this car stated that “if it bears the GRMN name, it must be able to run the Nürburgring properly.” There’s no lap time available, however, nor is there a final list of specs. You’re also going to be waiting to hear a price, but when it does arrive, expect it to be far more expensive than any other version of the GR Corolla.AdvertisementAdvertisementLastly, Toyota revealed a photo (below) of a new GR Corolla Morizo RR concept alongside the new model. A production version of this concept is already “under development” according to Toyota, and it’s being billed as the “ultimate five-seater model” that uses the automatic transmission. Considering it’s sporting a number of the exterior fittings that the GRMN has, it could very well be a more practical, automatic version of that car. Whether that becomes a U.S. offering is unclear at this point.Toyota (Toyota)You Might Also LikeIf You Can Only Own One Car, Make It One of TheseThese Are the Most Popular Cars by State