What makes the GR Corolla engine unique?
Engineering partnership and purpose
Core design and features
Key technical features of the GR Corolla’s engine set it apart from typical hot-hatch powerplants. These elements work together to provide strong, useable power across the rev range and to respond well to spirited driving.
- 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine (code G16E-GTS) designed for a high-rev, lightweight powerplant
- Twin-scroll turbocharger to reduce lag and improve response across RPMs
- Direct fuel injection supplemented by port fuel injection (a D-4S-like setup) to optimize efficiency and torque at various loads
- Compact, rigid architecture intended to handle high boost and aggressive driving without excessive weight
- Optimized intake and exhaust flow to support a broad, usable torque curve
Key features include:
These features collectively give the GR Corolla’s engine a distinctive blend of accessibility and excitement, letting the car feel eager from low speeds yet capable of strong, high-rev performance when pushed hard.
How the engine fits the drivetrain and driving feel
The engine is paired with Toyota’s GR-Four all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed manual transmission, creating a compounding effect on performance. The combination aims to deliver responsive throttle input, strong cornering grip, and a confident, hands-on driving experience that aligns with the GR brand’s rally-inspired philosophy.
Power delivery and tuning
In practice, the GR Corolla’s 1.6-liter turbo inline-3 produces roughly 300 horsepower and around 273 lb-ft of torque in the US-spec model, with the torque and power delivered in a way that favors quick, controllable acceleration and predictable behavior when exiting corners. The engine’s calibration emphasizes a broad torque band, a crisp throttle response, and smooth integration with the AWD system and manual gearbox.
This tuning supports sporty driving with a natural progression from low- to mid-range torque to higher-rev power, making the car feel lively without demanding constant shift discipline. The manual gearbox complements the engine’s character by offering short, precise shifts that enhance the driving experience rather than just raw speed.
Summary
The GR Corolla engine stands out because it blends a compact, high-revving turbocharged three-cylinder design with a dual-injection strategy and a performance-oriented drivetrain. Developed by Toyota and Yamaha, it emphasizes lightness, responsiveness, and the ability to deliver strong performance through a manual transmission and a dynamic AWD system. This combination captures the GR ethos: small, spirited, and engineered for engaging driving experiences.
What are the cons of the GR Corolla?
Great. Now you don't buy a GR Corolla for the fuel economy. And you won't get it epa estimates are 21 city 28 highway but if you drive it how it's meant to be driven.
Why did Toyota make the GR Corolla a 3 cylinder?
Secondary reason: Same reason why they chose a 3-cyl. It's lightweight, low center of gravity, enough clearance with the attachment to the transmission/drivetrain for rally. Found a way to get 'enough' power out of the system. Yaris is 10.52 lbs/hp, GR Corolla Circuit is going to be 10.66 lbs/hp.
What is special about the GR Corolla engine?
When Toyota's GR Corolla first burst onto the scene in America in 2022, it came powered by a unique engine: a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline three-cylinder pushing 300 horsepower.
Why does the GR Corolla have three exhausts?
GR Corolla is fitted with a firebreathing 3-cylinder engine helping to deliver 221kW of power. The addition of a functional 3-piece muffler assists in the reduction of backpressure and an audible amount of grunt.
