Mysterious Toyota GR Corolla spy photos exposed, may hint at facelift or

The Toyota GR Corolla was recently equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and an upgraded engine, but it seems that more updates are coming. Although details are limited, spy photographers recently captured a prototype with a camouflaged front bumper.

While that’s interesting in itself, the bumper is almost identical to the one on the current model. The only noticeable change seems to be the lack of sensors, so it’s unclear what Toyota is doing with it. However, we wouldn’t be surprised if the company is planning a facelift or a new special edition.

MORE: 2025 Toyota GR Corolla adds automatic, more torque than before

This is just speculation, but the current Corolla dates back to 2018, while the GR variant was launched in 2022. That means both models are already getting old despite efforts to keep them fresh.

Unfortunately, this prototype doesn’t reveal a whole lot other than Toyota is working on something new. The minimal camouflage suggests this could be a relatively minor update, but this is most likely an early prototype, so we probably shouldn’t read too much into it.

Regardless, the 2025 GR Corolla gets a new front bumper for improved cooling and aerodynamics. Toyota also added launch control, new interior trim, and a revised suspension with rebound springs and updated rear coilovers and stabilizers.

More notably, the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine has been upgraded to produce 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. That’s an increase of 22 lb-ft (30 Nm).

SH Proshots/Carscoops