It’s been known for some time now that Toyota’s GR Corolla, their Gazoo Racing-tuned hot hatch, would receive an automatic transmission for 2025. Whether you think this is going to open up the GR goodness for more people or is a strike against what makes this all-wheel-drive, turbo-punching featherweight such an enthusiast’s delight is totally subjective; what’s objective is the cold, hard calculus determining a $2,000 charge for the automatic.

That applies to all three trims of the 2025 GR Corolla: Core, Premium and Premium Plus, all of which still come standard with a six-speed “row it yourself” box. After a few more calculations, the entry-level core starts at $39,995 with destination attached, working up to $41,995 with the automatic bolted up.

Toyota GR Corolla Automatic Transmission is a $2,000 Option 2

For those not in the know, the automatic is an eight-speed unit defined as the “Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission.” You can read up on it in our previous report, but the idea is that this unit will try to anticipate gear shifts by interpreting driver inputs, allowing said operator to focus on turning and braking (two very important elements to road racing, believe it or not). The DAT underwent testing in both circuit and rally conditions, and it is specifically tuned for the “Sport” drive mode, one of three settings.

Those sticking with the traditional manual haven’t been forgotten; Toyota has improved the six-speed with an updated clutch system, said to provide “snappier clutch pedal operation feel,” particularly on pedal return. All models still utilize the turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine, conjuring 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, an increase over last year’s 273 lb-ft.

Another note: Those models equipped with the eight-speed DAT will benefit from radar cruise control and “Proactive Driving Assist.” The latter will use the vehicle’s onboard camera and radar to give the driver a little extra help, like monitoring the distance between the GR and the next vehicle ahead, or pre-curve braking.

If the Core experience isn’t enough, a 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Premium will start at $42,575, with the DAT variant stepping up to $44,575. The top-grade Premium Plus starts at $46,650 and $48,650 respectively.