In a bold move, Toyota Gazoo Racing North America (TGRNA) is reintroducing all-wheel drive to sports-car racing with the debut of the new Toyota GR Corolla TC. The car will compete in the SRO TC America series, marking a significant shift in the competition landscape as all-wheel drive hasn’t been seen in this category for quite some time.
TGRNA made a special arrangement with SRO Motorsports Group America, which sanctions the TC America series, to make this happen. This arrangement comes as the series plans to merge its current TC and TCX classes in 2025, allowing more flexibility in vehicle designs. The GR Corolla TC is set to be one of the most innovative entries in this new structure.
Under the hood, the GR Corolla TC retains the road-going version’s 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. What sets it apart is the all-wheel-drive system known as “GR-Four.” Unlike traditional setups, this system uses a clutch pack instead of a center differential to transfer power to the rear wheels. This drivetrain design, combined with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, is geared for competitive performance.
The GR Corolla TC is homologated with a fixed front-to-rear torque split, allowing for precise control during races. The powertrain’s control systems are optimized using Bosch engine management and ABS systems, offering advanced traction and braking control suited for racing. This level of precision was developed in collaboration with GR Corolla engineers in Japan, showcasing Toyota’s global effort to ensure the car is race-ready.
In terms of handling, the GR Corolla TC maintains the basic suspension geometry of the road version but features adjustable JRi dampers for enhanced performance. The braking system is upgraded with Alcon brakes, ensuring the car can handle the demands of racing. Inside, the race car is stripped down and equipped with a FIA-spec roll cage, OMP bucket seat, and a six-point harness. The steering wheel comes straight from Toyota’s Supra GT4 race car, completing its race-spec interior.
Aesthetically, the GR Corolla TC is designed to perform. It sports new aerodynamic components, including a massive rear wing that sprouts from the hatch, which had to be specifically adapted to the composite material used on the road car.
When it hits the track in 2025, the GR Corolla TC will face stiff competition from a diverse range of cars, including front-wheel-drive Honda Civic Type Rs and rear-wheel-drive BMW M2s. The SRO will apply Balance of Performance (BoP) adjustments to ensure the competition remains close between such a variety of cars.
While pricing for the GR Corolla TC has yet to be announced, it’s expected to cost more than TGRNA’s GR86 Cup car, which is priced at $132,000. As Toyota pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of sports-car racing, this new entry is poised to make a big impact on the grid next season.
