Toyota predicts 80% of GR Corolla buyers will choose manual over automatic

Apparently, even with Toyota’s sophisticated new automatic and launch control, drivers still prefer to row their own gears.

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put Brad Anderson

October 17, 2024 at 7:49 am

Toyota predicts 80% of GR Corolla buyers will choose manual over automatic

The rally-inspired version of the Corolla is one of the few high-performance cars offered with both manual and automatic versions.
The hot hatch’s new automatic transmission includes a launch control function and makes the car a little quicker overall.
Even with the automatic option, Toyota predicts most buyers will stick with the engaging six-speed manual transmission.

The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla has landed on US shores and, for the first time, is available with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While some may have assumed that the automatic would capture a significant portion of buyers, Toyota doesn’t seem to think so. The brand expects most buyers will still gravitate toward the six-speed manual, maintaining what made the GR Corolla a favorite among enthusiasts.

Toyota refers to the GR Corolla’s new eight-speed transmission as a Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) and says that, unlike the cars found in the GR Supra and GR 86, it does not base shifts on deceleration G-forces and in speed, but in the senses. brake and accelerator inputs to make the shift perfect. The automatic also comes with a launch control system that is not included in the manual.

Read: 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Adds Automatic and More Torque Than Ever

While recently speaking with CarBuzz at the launch of the 2025 GR Corolla, a Toyota spokesperson revealed that around 80% of North American buyers are still expected to opt for the six-speed manual. Not even the introduction of launch control or the convenience of the new automatic transmission seem enough to convince most buyers not to use the clutch pedal. Evidently, those who buy the GR Corolla are driving enthusiasts who want the purist experience possible.

Several other hot hatches/sedans are offered with both manual and automatic transmission options, including the Subaru WRX, Hyundai Elantra N, and VW Golf GTI, although we were unable to find a sales breakdown for any of them that shows the rate compare between the manual and automatic options.

More torque, more grip

There’s a lot more to like about the 2025 GR Corolla than either transmission option. Power continues to come from a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and still produces 300 hp, but Toyota engineers have managed to increase torque from 273 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm).

Handling has also been refined, thanks to new rebound springs and adjustments to the rear coils and stabilizers. And let’s not forget: all models now come standard with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, ensuring that the power reaches the pavement in a properly controlled manner.

Comment: Toyota GR Corolla GTS is a package of power, fun and agility

Pricing for the 2025 GR Corolla starts at $39,995 for the Core model, including a $1,135 destination charge, reflecting a $2,360 increase over last year. However, this price increase brings additional standard features, including a JBL sound system and other improvements. If you’ve got your eye on the new eight-speed automatic transmission, it’ll add $2,000 to the sticker. Toyota also simplified the lineup by discontinuing the Circuit Edition, further focusing the lineup on core driving enthusiasts.