2024 Toyota Gr Corolla Premium – Review, Specs & Features

In the vibrant, ever-evolving world of performance vehicles, the hot hatch segment has always held a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts. These unassuming heroes combine everyday practicality with a thrilling, engaging driving experience, proving that excitement doesn’t always need to come in a two-door package. For years, the market has seen formidable contenders, but few anticipated the seismic shift that would occur when a brand synonymous with reliability and practicality decided to unleash its inner beast.

Enter the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium. This isn’t just another compact car; it’s a meticulously engineered, adrenaline-pumping rally-bred machine that embodies Toyota Gazoo Racing’s philosophy of building “fun to drive” cars. With its aggressive stance, a turbocharged heart, and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, the GR Corolla has quickly cemented its place as a serious contender, challenging the established order and offering a fresh, exhilarating option for those who crave a truly dynamic driving experience.

This comprehensive review delves deep into what makes the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium a standout in its class. From its formidable engine and revolutionary drivetrain to its driver-centric interior and advanced technology, we’ll explore every facet that contributes to its undeniable appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned track warrior or simply seeking a daily driver that can transform into a weekend thrill machine, prepare to discover why the GR Corolla Premium might just be the hot hatch you’ve been waiting for.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What makes the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium stand out from other GR Corolla models?

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium trim adds a few key upgrades like front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, an upgraded JBL sound system, and Brin Naub® and synthetic leather-trimmed seats for a more refined experience. It really enhances both performance and comfort over the Core model.

How much does the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium typically cost?

While prices can vary based on dealer and options, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium usually starts in the low to mid-$40,000 range. It offers fantastic value for a high-performance, rally-bred hot hatch.

What kind of power does the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium pack?

Under the hood, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium features the impressive 1.6L G16E-GTS turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, delivering a thrilling 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse is exclusively paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, ensuring an incredibly engaging driving experience.

What are some of the standout features on the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium?

Beyond its powerful engine and GR-FOUR All-Wheel Drive, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium boasts standard heated front seats and steering wheel, an 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen, and those crucial Torsen LSDs for superior handling. It’s truly loaded with both comfort and performance tech.

Is the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium available, and how hard is it to find?

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is part of a limited production run, making it a highly sought-after hot hatch. While not as exclusive as the Morizo Edition, it can still be challenging to find at dealerships, so it’s always best to contact your local Toyota dealer early to inquire about availability!

Unpacking the Beast: What Defines the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium?

The journey of the GR Corolla began not in a corporate boardroom, but on the unforgiving rally stages and race tracks where Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) hones its craft. The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is a direct beneficiary of this motorsports DNA, bringing a level of performance and driver engagement previously unseen in a Toyota compact car. It’s a testament to the belief that passion and engineering can transform the mundane into the extraordinary.

The Philosophy Behind GR: Gazoo Racing’s DNA

Gazoo Racing isn’t just a marketing slogan; it’s the high-performance arm of Toyota, dedicated to building vehicles that push boundaries. Their “Cars Built by Master Drivers” ethos means every GR product, from the GR Supra to the GR86 and now the GR Corolla, is developed with a clear focus on driver feel, responsiveness, and track-proven durability. The GR Corolla is no exception, inheriting a spirit of relentless pursuit of performance and a connection between car and driver that is truly palpable.

• Rally-Bred Engineering: Inspired by Toyota’s success in rally racing, particularly with the GR Yaris (the GR Corolla’s smaller, European counterpart).
• Driver-Centric Design: Every element, from seating position to pedal placement, is optimized for maximum driver engagement.
• Rigorous Testing: Prototypes are put through their paces by professional drivers in extreme conditions to ensure peak performance and reliability.

Premium Trim – More Than Just a Badge

For 2024, the GR Corolla lineup includes the entry-level Core, the limited-production Circuit Edition, and the focus of our discussion: the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium. This trim level strikes an ideal balance between raw performance and enhanced daily usability, offering significant upgrades over the Core model without the exclusivity (and sometimes higher price) of the Circuit Edition. It represents a sweet spot for many enthusiasts, delivering top-tier performance features alongside crucial comfort and convenience enhancements.

Key differentiating features of the Premium trim include:

• Standard Torsen® limited-slip differentials (LSDs) for both front and rear axles.
• Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.
• Upgraded JBL® Premium Audio system with eight speakers.
• Better upholstered seats with Ultrasuede® and synthetic leather trim.

These additions elevate the ownership experience, making the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium not just a formidable track tool, but also a more refined and enjoyable companion for daily commutes and longer road trips.

Performance Unleashed: Engine, Drivetrain, and Driving Dynamics

At the heart of any performance vehicle lies its powertrain, and the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium boasts one of the most intriguing and potent engines in recent memory. Combined with its revolutionary all-wheel-drive system, it delivers an intoxicating blend of power, grip, and agility that redefines expectations for a hot hatch.

The Mighty G16E-GTS: A Three-Cylinder Marvel

Under the hood of the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium beats the heart of a giant: the G16E-GTS. This isn’t just any three-cylinder engine; it’s a masterpiece of engineering that defies its displacement. Producing an astounding 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque from just 1.6 liters, it holds the title of the world’s most powerful production three-cylinder engine. This remarkable output is achieved through clever design and advanced turbocharging technology.

• Horsepower: 300 hp at 6,500 rpm
• Torque: 273 lb-ft between 3,000-5,500 rpm
• Turbocharging: A single-scroll turbocharger with ball bearings for quick response.
• Exhaust System: Unique triple exhaust system, specifically designed to reduce back pressure and enhance engine sound. The center exhaust features a valve that opens at higher RPMs to further reduce back pressure.
• Construction: Lightweight, compact, and robust, optimized for high-performance applications.

The G16E-GTS delivers its power with an eager, rev-happy character, pulling strongly through the mid-range and exhilarating all the way to its redline. Paired exclusively with a precise 6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), the GR Corolla offers an unadulterated, engaging driving experience that modern enthusiasts crave.

The Revolutionary GR-FOUR AWD System

One of the most significant performance advantages of the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is its GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system. Developed in collaboration with Toyota’s World Rally Championship team, this system is not just for grip; it’s designed for dynamic handling and driver control, allowing power distribution to be precisely tailored to different driving conditions and preferences.

Drivers can choose from three power distribution settings:

• 60:40 Front/Rear: The default setting, ideal for everyday driving.
• 50:50 Front/Rear: Optimized for track and rally driving, providing maximum traction and balance.
• 30:70 Front/Rear: A more rear-biased setting, perfect for spirited driving on winding roads, allowing for some playful oversteer.

Crucially, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium comes standard with Torsen® limited-slip differentials (LSDs) on both the front and rear axles. These mechanical differentials automatically distribute torque to the wheels with the most grip, significantly enhancing traction, stability, and cornering ability. This means putting down all 300 horsepower effectively is never an issue, whether you’re carving through corners or launching off the line.

Precision Handling and Braking

To complement its powerful engine and sophisticated AWD system, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium features a chassis and suspension setup tuned for aggressive driving. The chassis is extensively braced and strengthened for increased rigidity, providing a solid foundation for dynamic handling.

• Suspension: MacPherson-type strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, both tuned for maximum grip and minimal body roll.
• Steering: Electrically assisted power steering is weighted to provide excellent feedback, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road.
• Brakes: Large, ventilated disc brakes with 4-piston calipers at the front and 2-piston calipers at the rear provide strong, consistent stopping power, essential for track use.
• Wheels & Tires: Standard 18-inch gloss black cast alloy wheels are wrapped in high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, ensuring excellent grip in various conditions.

The result is a car that feels incredibly nimble and responsive, reacting precisely to driver inputs and inspiring confidence whether on the street or the track.

Design & Aerodynamics: Form Meets Function

The aggressive performance of the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is immediately evident in its design. This is not a subtle car; every line, vent, and flare serves a purpose, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency and unmistakable presence. It’s a design that screams performance without being ostentatious, blending rally-inspired cues with modern automotive aesthetics.

Aggressive Exterior Styling

The GR Corolla stands wider and more muscular than its standard Corolla counterpart, thanks to its extended fenders and broader track. This isn’t just for looks; it accommodates the wider tires and contributes to the car’s enhanced stability and grip. The front fascia is dominated by a large, functional matrix grille that feeds air to the intercooler and radiator, flanked by vertical air ducts that improve aerodynamic efficiency by reducing wheel-well turbulence.

• Wide Body Kit: Flared fenders house the wider wheels and tires, giving it an imposing stance.
• Functional Vents: Every vent and intake is strategically placed to cool vital components or improve airflow.
• Rear Spoiler: A sleek, integrated rear spoiler helps to generate downforce at higher speeds, contributing to stability.
• Triple Exhaust: The distinctive triple-exit exhaust system is a visual cue to its unique engine and performance capabilities.

The overall aesthetic of the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is one of purpose-driven aggression, a clear indicator of its track-ready capabilities while still being undeniably a Corolla at its core.

A Driver-Focused Interior

Step inside the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium, and you’ll find an environment meticulously crafted for the driver. While it retains the practicality of a four-door hatchback, every element is geared towards enhancing the driving experience. The cabin design strikes a balance between performance functionality and everyday comfort.

• Sport Seats: The Premium trim features Ultrasuede® and synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats that offer excellent bolstering to keep you secure during spirited driving, while also providing comfort for longer journeys. They are also heated for added comfort in colder climates.
• Digital Gauge Cluster: A 12.3-inch Multi-Information Display (MID) provides key performance data, including turbo pressure, GR-FOUR mode, and gear position, all configurable for the driver’s preferences.
• Ergonomics: The short-throw manual shifter is perfectly positioned, and the pedal box is optimized for heel-and-toe downshifts, inviting enthusiastic driving.
• Premium Touches: The heated steering wheel (standard on Premium) and ambient lighting contribute to a more upscale feel compared to the Core model.

Despite its performance focus, the GR Corolla Premium doesn’t completely sacrifice practicality, offering decent rear-seat space for a compact hatch and a usable cargo area, making it a surprisingly versatile companion.

Premium Features & Technology: Comfort, Convenience, and Safety

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium doesn’t just excel in raw performance; it also comes equipped with a suite of features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety, making it a well-rounded package for modern drivers. These additions bridge the gap between a hardcore track toy and a comfortable daily driver.

Elevated Comfort and Convenience

One of the main draws of the Premium trim is its inclusion of features that significantly improve the daily driving experience, especially during colder months or longer trips. These are amenities that the base Core model omits, making the Premium a more compelling choice for those seeking a complete package.

• Heated Front Seats: Essential for comfort in cooler climates, the heated front seats provide quick warmth.
• Heated Steering Wheel: A luxury often found in higher-end vehicles, the heated steering wheel ensures comfortable grip on chilly mornings.
• JBL® Premium Audio System: The 8-speaker JBL system delivers superior sound quality compared to the standard audio, enhancing entertainment during any drive.
• Wireless Charging: A convenient pad for charging compatible smartphones without the need for cables.
• Smart Key System: Keyless entry and push-button start for effortless access and ignition.

These features elevate the cabin experience, turning the potent 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium into a vehicle that’s as enjoyable to live with day-to-day as it is to push to its limits.

Advanced Safety and Driver-Assistance (Toyota Safety Sense 3.0)

Toyota’s commitment to safety is evident in the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium, which comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0). This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind on the road.

Key features of TSS 3.0 include:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Helps detect vehicles and pedestrians, and provides audible/visual alerts and automatic braking if necessary.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA): Notifies the driver if the vehicle unintentionally strays from its lane and can provide gentle steering correction.
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed as needed.
• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Works with DRCC to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane on highways.
• Road Sign Assist (RSA): Uses a camera to detect certain road signs and displays them on the multi-information display.
• Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic and ambient light.

Additionally, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium includes Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), further enhancing awareness and safety during lane changes and reversing maneuvers.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The GR Corolla Premium is equipped with the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display. This intuitive system offers a seamless connected experience, allowing drivers to stay entertained and informed.

• Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™: Easily integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication without cables.
• Cloud Navigation: Provides real-time traffic updates and over-the-air map updates.
• “Hey Toyota” Intelligent Assistant: Voice-activated commands for various vehicle functions.
• Multiple USB Ports: Convenient charging and connectivity options for various devices.

These technological advancements ensure that while the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is a performance monster, it doesn’t compromise on the modern conveniences expected in today’s vehicles.

The Premium Edge: Why Choose This Trim?

With three distinct trims available for the 2024 model year, discerning which GR Corolla is right for you can be a challenge. The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium truly shines as the sweet spot in the lineup, offering a compelling blend of essential performance upgrades and desirable comfort features that make it a standout choice for a wide range of enthusiasts.

Circuit Edition vs. Premium: Key Differentiators

While the Circuit Edition often grabs headlines with its limited production run and distinctive aesthetics, the Premium trim offers virtually all of the Circuit’s performance prowess at a more accessible price point. The most significant performance distinction between the Core and Premium is the standard inclusion of Torsen® LSDs on both axles for the Premium, a feature shared with the Circuit Edition.

The Circuit Edition’s main unique features for 2024 typically include:

• Forged carbon-fiber roof (distinctive and lighter).
• Vented hood.
• Larger, more aggressive rear spoiler.
• Unique interior accents (e.g., suede and synthetic leather-trimmed seats with red stitching, a shift knob signed by Akio Toyoda).

However, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium already receives the crucial Torsen® LSDs, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and the JBL audio system. For many, these additions are far more impactful for everyday driving and track performance than the Circuit’s aesthetic flourishes and marginal weight savings. The Premium delivers 95% of the Circuit’s performance capability while offering better availability and often a more appealing price.

Competitor Comparison

The hot hatch segment is fiercely competitive, with formidable rivals like the Honda Civic Type R, Hyundai Elantra N, and Volkswagen Golf R. The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium carves out its own niche with several unique selling propositions:

• GR-FOUR AWD: Unlike the front-wheel-drive Civic Type R and Elantra N, the GR Corolla’s advanced AWD system provides superior all-weather traction and dynamic cornering ability, especially appealing in regions with diverse climates. It’s more directly comparable to the Golf R in this aspect.
• Three-Cylinder Engine: The G16E-GTS stands alone with its three-cylinder configuration, offering a unique soundtrack and a testament to modern engineering efficiency. Its 300 horsepower output is competitive with or exceeds many four-cylinder rivals.
• Manual Transmission Only: For purists, the GR Corolla’s exclusive 6-speed manual transmission is a major draw, offering an unfiltered connection to the driving experience that some competitors have moved away from (e.g., Golf R offering a DSG option).
• Toyota Reliability: Underneath its performance shell, it’s still a Toyota, promising long-term reliability and lower maintenance costs, a significant advantage for ownership.

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium offers a compelling blend of Japanese rally heritage, cutting-edge technology, and everyday usability, making it a distinct and highly desirable option in the hot hatch arena.

Ownership Experience and Value Proposition

Beyond its raw performance, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium presents a strong value proposition. Toyota’s legendary reliability means lower running costs and peace of mind. Its status as a limited-production, enthusiast-focused vehicle also suggests strong potential for resale value, especially given the current demand for such engaging driver’s cars. Fuel economy, while not the primary concern for a hot hatch, is respectable for its power output, often achieving around 21 MPG combined (EPA estimated), making it a viable daily driver.

Choosing the Premium trim means you’re getting the essential performance enhancements and desirable comfort features without entering the more exclusive and potentially pricier territory of the Circuit Edition. It’s the smart choice for enthusiasts who want maximum bang for their buck, balancing exhilarating performance with practical considerations.

Data Dive: 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium at a Glance

To summarize the key specifications and features of the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium, here’s a data table providing a quick overview:

Feature/Spec	2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium
Engine	1.6L G16E-GTS DOHC 12-valve turbocharged 3-cylinder
Horsepower	300 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque	273 lb-ft @ 3,000-5,500 rpm
Transmission	6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT)
Drivetrain	GR-FOUR All-Wheel Drive (with 60:40, 50:50, 30:70 power split modes)
Differentials	Standard Torsen® Limited-Slip Differentials (Front & Rear)
0-60 mph (Estimated)	Approx. 4.9 – 5.1 seconds
Curb Weight	Approx. 3,269 lbs
Fuel Economy (EPA Est.)	21 MPG Combined (20 City / 27 Highway)
Key Standard Premium Features	Heated Front Sport Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Ultrasuede®/Synthetic Leather Trim, JBL® Premium Audio, Wireless Phone Charger
Safety Suite	Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
MSRP (Approx. starting)	~$39,000 – $41,000 (Excluding destination, taxes, fees)

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is more than just a hot hatch; it’s a statement. It’s Toyota’s emphatic entry into a segment it once seemed content to observe from the sidelines, and it has done so with a car that is unapologetically driver-focused, incredibly capable, and surprisingly well-equipped. From its potent three-cylinder engine and rally-bred GR-FOUR AWD system to its driver-centric interior and comprehensive safety features, every aspect of the GR Corolla Premium has been engineered to thrill.

For the enthusiast seeking an engaging manual transmission, the confidence of all-wheel-drive, and a genuinely unique driving experience, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium presents an incredibly compelling package. It bridges the gap between a daily commuter and a weekend track warrior with remarkable finesse, offering a level of performance and refinement that stands tall against its established rivals. It’s a testament to what happens when a global automotive giant pours its motorsport passion into a production car – a truly special machine is born.

If you’re in the market for a hot hatch that delivers exhilarating performance, impressive technology, and Toyota’s renowned reliability, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium deserves a prime spot on your shortlist. It’s not just a car; it’s an experience, waiting to be unleashed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium a desirable hot hatch?

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is a highly sought-after hot hatch known for its exhilarating performance and rally-inspired DNA. It offers a thrilling driving experience thanks to its powerful engine and precision engineering, making it a standout in its segment.

What are the key performance specifications of the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium?

Under the hood, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium boasts a potent G16E-GTS 1.6L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to all four wheels via Toyota’s GR-FOUR AWD system, paired exclusively with a 6-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT).

What premium features are included with the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium trim?

The Premium trim level enhances the GR Corolla experience with several upscale features, including front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials for improved traction and handling. It also typically adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an upgraded JBL sound system for a more comfortable and engaging interior.

How does the GR-FOUR AWD system work in the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium?

The GR-FOUR All-Wheel Drive system in the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is a rally-derived system offering selectable power distribution modes (60:40, 50:50, and 30:70). This allows drivers to tailor the car’s handling characteristics to their preference, whether for track performance or varying road conditions.

Is the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium suitable for daily driving?

While primarily designed for performance, the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium can be a surprisingly capable daily driver. Its compact size makes it maneuverable in city traffic, and the interior, though performance-focused, offers modern amenities and reasonable comfort for everyday commutes.

What’s the availability and expected price range for the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium?

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Premium is a limited production vehicle, making it highly exclusive and potentially challenging to find. While specific pricing can vary, it generally starts in the mid-to-high $40,000 range, positioning it as a premium option in the hot hatch market.