UMW Toyota Motor has officially expanded the GR Corolla lineup in Malaysia with the introduction of the 2026 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic Transmission, marking a significant step in making Toyota Gazoo Racing’s motorsport-bred hot hatch more accessible to a wider audience.
Pricing:
- GR Corolla AT – RM378,950
- GR Corolla MT – RM368,950
While the GR Corolla has always been positioned as a focused driver’s car, the new automatic variant caters to enthusiasts who want serious performance without the commitment of a manual gearbox, all while preserving the car’s core GR character.
At the heart of both the new automatic and the existing manual versions is Toyota’s G16E-GTS engine. This 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder unit delivers 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
Power is sent to all four wheels via Toyota’s GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, which allows the driver to adjust torque distribution depending on driving conditions and preference. The result is a hot hatch that blends explosive performance with impressive traction and control.
The headline addition for 2026 is the 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, or GR-DAT. Multiple driving modes tailor throttle response and shift behaviour, ranging from relaxed daily driving to aggressive, performance-focused settings.
For drivers who still want a sense of involvement, a sequential-style manual mode allows gear changes via the shift lever or paddle shifters, mimicking the feel of a race-inspired transmission.
Exclusive to the automatic variant is Launch Start Control, a feature typically reserved for high-performance sports cars. Designed to maximise traction and minimise wheelspin during hard launches, the system manages engine speed and power delivery to deliver consistent and confident acceleration from a standstill.
With this system engaged, the GR Corolla AT is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.3 seconds, matching the manual version on paper. Top speed for both variants is around 230 km/h, underscoring the car’s serious performance credentials.
The 6-speed manual GR Corolla remains a key part of the lineup, appealing to purists who value mechanical engagement. It features intelligent rev-matching to smooth downshifts and maintain stability under braking.
Despite the different transmissions, both versions offer broadly identical performance figures, with real-world differences largely coming down to driver preference and driving style rather than outright capability.
Beyond the drivetrain, Toyota has introduced a series of refinements across the entire GR Corolla range for 2026. Suspension and ABS tuning have been revised to improve stability, braking confidence and cornering precision, particularly during high-speed or aggressive driving.
The GR Corolla’s exterior design remains largely unchanged, with its wide stance, flared arches and functional aerodynamic elements continuing to define its motorsport-inspired look.
Cooling and airflow management remain a priority, supporting the engine and drivetrain during sustained high-load driving while maintaining everyday usability in Malaysia’s climate. The practical five-door hatchback body ensures that, despite its performance focus, the GR Corolla remains usable as a daily vehicle.
Inside, the cabin continues to prioritise the driver. Controls are laid out for quick and intuitive access, with minimal distraction. For 2026, both variants gain a new 10-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, improving connectivity and usability.
A digital instrument cluster and head-up display provide key driving information directly in the driver’s line of sight. Blind Spot Monitor has also been added as standard, enhancing safety during daily driving without detracting from the car’s performance-oriented intent.
In Malaysia, the 2026 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic Transmission is priced from RM378,950 in Peninsular Malaysia, while the Manual Transmission variant starts from RM368,950.
Preferential pricing is available in Langkawi, where the automatic is offered from RM233,500 and the manual from RM227,300. Both versions are sold exclusively through selected GR Garage dealerships, which also provide dedicated aftersales support and access to GR-branded accessories and merchandise.
