Toyota GAZOO Racing has amplified the excitement surrounding the GR Corolla, introducing the GR Corolla MORIZO Edition – a track-honed variant designed for driving purists. Like any true enthusiast, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineers took the already potent GR Corolla back to the garage to dial up the power, shed weight, and sharpen handling, all while ensuring it remained track-ready straight from the dealership. The result? A GR Corolla deserving of the MORIZO moniker.
This purpose-built MORIZO Edition elevates Toyota’s GR lineup, joining the performance-oriented GR Corolla Core Grade and the launch-year-exclusive Circuit Edition, alongside the GR Supra and GR86. Named in honor of GR Master Driver and Toyota president Akio Toyoda, the MORIZO Edition embodies Toyoda’s personal performance ideals: razor-sharp handling, an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, and unwavering body rigidity. Exclusively for the US market, a mere 200 numbered units will be produced for the 2023 model year, making it a truly rare breed of Toyota Corolla Hatchback Gr.
Enhanced Performance and Torque
While maintaining the impressive 300 horsepower of the Core and Circuit Edition GR Corolla models, the MORIZO Edition sees a significant torque increase, jumping to 295 lb.-ft. from 273 lb.-ft. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineers meticulously retuned the GR Corolla’s engine to unlock this additional power, achieving peak torque between 3250-4600RPM. The MORIZO edition boasts an exclusive close-ratio intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) and shorter differential gears, ensuring exhilarating acceleration throughout the rev range of this toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Weight Reduction for Agility
GR engineers embarked on a comprehensive weight-saving mission, stripping out nearly 100 pounds compared to the GR Corolla Circuit Edition. The MORIZO Edition’s preliminary curb weight is estimated at a svelte 3,186 pounds (compared to the Circuit Edition’s 3,292 pounds). This substantial reduction was achieved by eliminating the rear seats, incorporating a forged carbon fiber roof (shared with the Circuit Edition), and utilizing lightweight forged wheels. The transformation into a focused two-seater allowed for further weight savings, with the removal of rear door speakers, the rear window regulator, and even the rear wiper blade and motor – every ounce mattered in creating this ultimate toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Track-Ready Handling and Grip
For uncompromising handling, the MORIZO edition is equipped with wider, stickier Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. These high-performance tires are mounted on 18-inch forged alloy wheels featuring an exclusive matte black finish and the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing logo proudly displayed on the rim. Red-painted monotube shock absorbers and unique suspension tuning further refine the driving experience, delivering the precision and responsiveness demanded for track driving in this specialized toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Increased Rigidity for Enhanced Control
GR engineers prioritized structural rigidity, adding two extra floor braces and an additional rear strut brace to the MORIZO Edition’s frame. The chassis benefits from 349 additional spot welds and over six meters more structural adhesive than a standard Corolla hatchback frame. This enhanced rigidity provides a solid foundation for the GR-FOUR All-Wheel Drive system to work its magic, offering selectable 30-70, 50-50, and 60-40 front-to-rear wheel power settings for tailored control. Dual limited-slip differentials come standard, maximizing traction and cornering prowess in this high-performance toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Race-Inspired Interior
Stepping inside the MORIZO Edition reveals a driver-focused cockpit. Exclusive red and black Ultrasuede and leather sport seats with aggressive bolsters and harness holes firmly hold occupants in place during spirited driving. An Ultrasuede-wrapped steering wheel with a red sightline, shift knob, boot, and parking brake lever further enhance the sporty ambiance.
Two prominent braces span the rear cabin, reinforcing structural integrity while still providing ample space to transport four spare tires for track days. The MORIZO Edition retains the same driver-centric 12.3-inch digital Multi-Information Display (MID) found in the Core and Circuit Edition. Toyota’s advanced Multi-Media System with touchscreen and Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) system are also standard features in this performance-oriented toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Aggressive and Functional Exterior
The MORIZO Edition’s exterior is equally purposeful, featuring functional venting, including MORIZO-exclusive front brake ducts. It shares the forged carbon fiber roof, vented bulge hood, and GR-Four stamped side rockers with the Circuit Edition. Aerodynamic enhancements like a flat underfloor and rear lip spoiler further contribute to stability at speed. Available in Windchill Pearl and a MORIZO Edition-exclusive new matte-finished Gray, this limited edition toyota corolla hatchback gr is instantly recognizable. Each MORIZO Edition will be meticulously built at the GR Factory at Toyota’s Motomachi Plant.
Revolutionary 3-Cylinder Turbo Engine
Under the hood of the GR Corolla MORIZO grade resides the same potent turbocharged G16E-GTS powerplant found in the standard GR Corolla, but with a torque boost. This compact 1,618 cubic centimeter, DOHC 12-valve engine churns out a maximum of 300 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque.
The engine features a single-scroll ball-bearing turbocharger mated to a 6-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT) with rev-matching, engineered to handle the increased torque. TGR engineers optimized the transmission gear ratios, differential gear ratio, and engine tuning to sustain peak torque acceleration in the MORIZO edition toyota corolla hatchback gr. Motorsport-derived technologies, including multi-oil jet piston cooling, large-diameter exhaust valves, and a part-machined intake port, maximize performance. Toyota’s D-4S direct and port fuel injection system ensures efficient and powerful combustion. The enhanced exhaust efficiency and a specially designed 3-piece muffler with valve and brushed stainless steel tips contribute to the engine’s increased power output in this high-performance toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Wide, Rigid Chassis Engineered for Handling
The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition’s exceptional handling is rooted in its highly rigid body, built upon the GA-C platform. Significantly increased weld points, particularly at critical joints, and the extensive use of structural adhesive enhance rigidity, creating a chassis that rewards drivers with precise control.
The front suspension utilizes a MacPherson-type strut design, balancing lightweight construction with firm handling. Circuit-tuned coil springs, monotube shock absorbers, and stabilizer bars work in harmony to maximize tire grip and deliver optimal cornering performance. The rear suspension employs a double-wishbone type multilink system, perfectly complementing the AWD system’s agility and stability goals in this dynamic toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Extra-wide tread Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, mounted on 18” forged alloy wheels, ensure exceptional cornering grip and high-speed stability, further enhancing the handling prowess of this toyota corolla hatchback gr. Braking is handled by opposed, fixed-caliper disc brakes with 14-inch ventilated and slotted rotors and 4-piston red-painted calipers at the front, and 11.7-inch ventilated rotors with 2-piston red-painted calipers at the rear.
The Advanced GR-FOUR All-Wheel Drive System
Born from Toyota GAZOO Racing’s motorsport heritage, the GR Corolla MORIZO Edition features the GR-FOUR All-Wheel-Drive system. This sophisticated system, developed in collaboration with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team and honed by WRC drivers, provides exceptional traction and control. It optimizes drive power to each wheel while remaining lightweight and relatively simple.
The GR-FOUR system is adaptable to various driving conditions and driver preferences. A simple dial allows drivers to adjust the front/rear torque distribution: 60:40 for everyday driving, 30:70 for sporty handling on winding roads and circuits, and 50:50 for maximum stability on track. The system dynamically adjusts torque balance in each mode based on driver input, vehicle behavior, and road conditions, making this toyota corolla hatchback gr incredibly versatile.
The MORIZO Edition further enhances cornering performance with front and rear Torsen Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD), precisely controlling left and right-hand drive torque distribution on both axles.
Lightweight Construction and Aerodynamic Efficiency
Weight savings are a central theme throughout the GR Corolla MORIZO Edition. The roof is constructed from a forged carbon sheet molding compound, reducing weight and lowering the center of gravity. Aluminum is used for the hood and front door panels, while high-tensile steel is strategically employed in critical areas to maintain structural integrity and safety.
Aerodynamic performance is optimized with a tapering roofline, rear lip spoiler, and rally-car-inspired front and rear canards and GR-Four stamped lower rockers. Hood, fender, and rear bumper ducts, along with a flat underfloor, minimize drag, increase downforce, and improve overall stability of this meticulously engineered toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Rally-Inspired Hot Hatch Styling
The GR Corolla MORIZO edition’s wide stance and aggressive hatchback design exude a track-ready presence. The black GR badged functional matrix grille, flanked by functional air ducts, and gloss-black accents contribute to its assertive look. Wide front and rear fender flares, a bulge hood with functional gloss-black air ducts, and front brake cooling vents further enhance the visual impact. The carbon fiber roof, matte-black roof-mounted shark fin antenna, gloss-black heated power outside mirrors, and black GR Corolla badges complete the exterior transformation of this striking toyota corolla hatchback gr.
The rear features a gloss black lower bumper cover with functional air vents, a matte-black rear spoiler, and wide, flared fenders that emphasize the car’s low and wide silhouette, cementing its status as a high-performance toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Race-Inspired Interior and Technology
The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition’s interior reflects its performance focus. A newly developed 12.3-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) GR Full TFT meter, incorporating feedback from professional drivers, presents essential information like 4WD mode, turbo pressure, gear position, and tachometer in an easily readable format. A GR start-up animation adds a touch of motorsport flair.
The short-stroke shift lever, pull-type mechanical parking brake, and aluminum sport pedals enhance the driver’s connection to the car. Black interior with red trim details, Brin Naub® suede and synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with red stitching, and a GR Ultra Suede-trimmed steering wheel create a purposeful and sporty cabin environment within this toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Standard comfort and convenience features include automatic climate control, power windows, push-button GR engine start/stop, two USB charging ports, a 12V outlet, and Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging.
Toyota Audio Multimedia and Connected Services
All GR Corolla models, including the MORIZO Edition, feature Toyota’s advanced North American developed Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch touchscreen. This system offers enhanced connectivity, including wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. Intelligent Assistant via Drive Connect allows for voice-activated commands. Cloud-based native navigation with real-time updates and integrated Google POI data ensures accurate directions. Wi-Fi Connect subscription provides 4G connectivity and Integrated Streaming for Apple Music® and Amazon Music.
The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition also includes a suite of Connected Services, such as Safety Connect, Service Connect, and available trials for various features.
Safety and Driver Assistance Technology
The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition prioritizes safety with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) standard on all grades. This comprehensive suite includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) are also standard. Toyota Safety Connect® provides emergency assistance and vehicle location services.
The Gazoo Racing Legacy
The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition embodies the spirit of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing, born from Akio Toyoda’s desire to infuse racing into Toyota’s car development. The GAZOO Racing team’s origins trace back to the challenging 24 Hours of Nürburgring race, where employee teams, including Akio Toyoda himself (under the alias MORIZO), competed and persevered. The GR Corolla represents TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s first fully developed model for the North American market, carrying forward a legacy of pushing boundaries and striving for continuous improvement, particularly evident in this track-focused toyota corolla hatchback gr.
GR Factory Precision Manufacturing
To achieve the exacting performance standards of the GR Corolla, Toyota established a dedicated GR Factory at its Motomachi plant – the birthplace of legendary vehicles like the Lexus LFA and Supra A80. The GR Factory utilizes a unique production line with automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and manual assembly techniques, ensuring meticulous body and suspension alignment and minimal variations in vehicle dimensions and weight for each toyota corolla hatchback gr. Highly skilled technicians assemble each GR Corolla with meticulous care, contributing to the overall GR mission of developing exceptional vehicles and passionate people.
Warranty and ToyotaCare
The GR Corolla MORIZO Edition is backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a 60-month corrosion warranty. ToyotaCare provides normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, offering peace of mind for owners of this high-performance toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Option Packages
No option packages are available for the GR Corolla MORIZO Edition, reflecting its focused and highly specified nature.
Preliminary Specifications
Please note that all specifications are preliminary and subject to change. Pricing for the GR Corolla MORIZO Edition will be announced in the coming months, with availability at Toyota dealerships in 2023, marking the arrival of a truly special toyota corolla hatchback gr.
Updated Aug. 25, 2022.
