2024 Toyota GR Corolla Circuit Edition returns with minor changes

Following the announcement that the GR Corolla Circuit Edition will continue through the 2024 model year, Toyota detailed changes planned for the hot hatchback when it returns to US showrooms later this year.

The GR Corolla was launched for the 2023 model year, with U.S. production limited to 1,500 units. Citing strong demand, Toyota confirmed in February that it will expand sales of the Circuit Edition, which sits between the base grade GR Corolla Core and the hardcore Morizo Edition (named after the nickname of outgoing CEO Akio Toyoda), in the 2023 model year GR Corolla lineup The company has confirmed that it will do so. Toyota has not indicated whether the limited-edition Morizo grade will return, but it probably won't.

Toyota followed up this announcement on Wednesday with details of changes to the 2024 GR Corolla Circuit Edition. They are fairly minor, starting with a new Blue Frame exterior color option. According to Toyota, 18-inch forged aluminum BBS wheels, similar to those on the 2023 Morizo Edition, are now also standard.

The blue theme continues inside with suede and synthetic leather seats with blue accents, a blue-trimmed shift knob, and blue accent stitching An eight-speaker JBL audio system is also standard, as is an eight-speaker JBL audio system, with a three-speed manual transmission and a four-speed manual transmission.

To improve aerodynamics, the front air ducts have been slightly reshaped and aluminum seats have been added to the front and rear bumpers. The materials used for the steering gear, rear suspension, and battery grounds were also changed.

However, the powertrain remained unchanged: the G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbo 3 still produced 300 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive.

Toyota has not yet clarified whether production of the GR Corolla will remain limited to a certain number of units in 2024. Toyota previously confirmed that it will increase production and that it is considering extending Circuit Edition sales further into the 2025 model year if demand remains strong. It is definitely good to see the continued supply of the GR Corolla, which is so much fun that it is a finalist for Motor Authority's Best Cars of 2023.

The 2024 Toyota GR Corolla Circuit Edition will be in U.S. showrooms this winter. Pricing will be released at a later date.