2025 Toyota GR Corolla

The GR's base price is a full 50% higher than that of a regular Corolla hatchback. But that's no baseless premium. The GR is comprehensively reengineered and upgraded from the standard Corolla, starting with the basic structure of the car. It uses a different floorpan to accommodate the all-wheel-drive system's rear differential, and the rest of the body shell is stiffened with more than 300 extra welds and 9 feet of additional adhesive. The suspension is completely redesigned. And GR Corollas are assembled in a dedicated facility where they are subject to numerous additional tests and checks, many of which are performed by hand. Oh, and then there's the unique turbocharged three-cylinder and the driver-adjustable all-wheel-drive system. The GR might seem expensive compared to the regular Corolla, but you get what you pay for.

As a 300-horsepower hatchback, the GR Corolla has few natural predators. The Volkswagen Golf R is quite a bit pricier but also a lot more comfortable. Subaru's WRX is only available as a sedan and its 271 horsepower falls shy of the GR Corolla's output, but it shares the Toyota's rally-bred roots and driving demeanor — and it's less expensive too. Buyers who don't need all-wheel-drive traction should also check out the exceptional (but also pricey) Honda Civic Type R, while value-conscious contrarians will find much to appreciate in the class' other newest challenger, the Hyundai Elantra N. Read our Expert Rating below to see exactly where the GR Corolla excels.