2025 Toyota Corolla GR Sport debuts in Malaysia – Priced from RM150k, here’s what’s new

KUALA LUMPUR:  UMW Toyota Motor has launched the 2025 Corolla GR Sport in Malaysia, revealing it during the Toyota Gazoo Racing Season 7 finale.

The new model combines real performance upgrades with everyday practicality, making it a solid choice for drivers who want a sporty edge without sacrificing usability.

Photo from Toyota Malaysia

Now in its second year, the GR Sport gets some functional updates to better cater to younger drivers, including those with families.

Unlike some cars that just look sporty, this one delivers actual handling improvements, striking a balance between fun and practicality.

It’s still powered by a 1.8-litre engine but paired with a new 10-speed CVT, offering smoother shifts, quicker acceleration, and a manual mode for added excitement.

Photo from Toyota Malaysia

On the outside, the two-tone paint, GR-specific honeycomb grille, and bold 18-inch alloy wheels give it a distinctive, athletic look.

Step inside, and you’ll find premium suede and leather seats with red stitching, a GR-branded steering wheel, and an upgraded 10-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Toyota hasn’t forgotten about safety either. The GR Sport comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), including features like lane tracing assist and dynamic radar cruise control.

Photo from Toyota Malaysia

Starting at RM149,800—cheaper than the previous model—the 2025 Corolla GR Sport delivers on practicality, style, and performance.

Curious about what’s fresh in the 2025 Corolla GR Sport? Here’s a quick comparison with the previous model and a rundown of the latest updates:

Performance Updates

Feature	2025 Corolla GR Sport	2023 Corolla GR Sport	Difference
Engine	1.8L with 10-speed CVT	1.8L with CVT (7-speed simulation)	New 10-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic CVT for smoother shifts and optimized ratios.
Power Output	139 PS / 172 Nm	139 PS / 172 Nm	No changes in engine specs.
Suspension	Retuned shocks, springs, and stabilizers	Sports suspension with tuned dampers	Enhanced tuning for improved roll and pitch control.
Sport Mode Enhancements	Auto Brake Downshifting and Cornering Gear Fix Control	Not available	Added for better accelerator modulation and cornering control.

Design Improvements

Feature	2025 Corolla GR Sport	2023 Corolla GR Sport	Difference
Exterior Design	Two-tone colour options with black roof	Single-tone options only	Two-tone styling exclusive to the 2025 model.
GR-specific Styling	GR Sport grille, redesigned bumpers, spoilers	GR Sport grille, bumper, and diffuser	Refined aerodynamics and styling details for 2025.
Wheel Design	GR-specific 18-inch alloy wheels	18-inch alloys in Dark Gray Metallic	New alloy design for a sportier appearance.
Aerodynamics	Improved airflow with redesigned spoilers	Standard GR-specific aerodynamics	Enhanced high-speed stability.

Interior and Technology

Feature	2025 Corolla GR Sport	2023 Corolla GR Sport	Difference
Infotainment	10-inch HD system with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto	9-inch system with wired connectivity	Larger screen with wireless smartphone integration.
Seats	Leather with Ultrasuede + red stitching	Sport seats with GR logo, red stitching	Upgraded upholstery and stitching for 2025.
Steering Enhancements	GR-badged wheel, red seatbelts, smoked silver trim	GR-badged wheel	Added red seatbelts and metallic trim for a premium feel.
Instrument Cluster	12.3-inch digital cluster	12.3-inch digital cluster	No changes in instrument cluster hardware.

Safety and Convenience

Feature	2025 Corolla GR Sport	2023 Corolla GR Sport	Difference
Toyota Safety Sense	TSS 3.0 with PCS, DRCC, LDA, LTA, AHB, BSM	TSS 2.0 with PCS, DRCC, LDA, LTA, AHB, BSM	Updated safety suite for improved responsiveness and features.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)	Included	Not available	Added for enhanced safety while reversing.
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)	Included	Included	No changes.
Parking Assistance	Front and rear parking sensors + DVR	Digital video recorders (front and rear)	Improved convenience and visibility for 2025.

Pricing

Feature	2025 Corolla GR Sport	2023 Corolla GR Sport	Difference
Price (RM)	RM149,800	RM152,800	Slight reduction in price despite added features.

 

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