Video and images of the much-anticipated 2026 Toyota GRMN Corolla have surfaced online, revealing the vehicle ahead of its official debut. The leaks, which appear to originate from a special dealership event, showcase a model that promises to elevate Toyota’s performance lineup.
The GRMN badge, an acronym for Gazoo Racing, Masters of Nürburgring, is reserved for Toyota’s flagship, high-performance models. These vehicles are known for their limited production runs and enhanced performance features, positioning them a notch above the GR variants.
Design and Features
According to leaked images shared by Instagram user mysupraadventures, the GRMN Corolla boasts a striking design. It features a ventilated carbon-fibre bonnet, strategically placed vents in the front quarter panels, an aggressive diffuser, and a prominent rear wing crafted from carbon fibre. These elements not only enhance the car’s aesthetic appeal but also its aerodynamic efficiency.
Further distinguishing the GRMN from its GR counterpart are lightweight alloy wheels in a distinctive bronze finish. Inside, the vehicle is equipped with heavily bolstered sports seats upholstered in red leather and grey Alcantara, a nod to both luxury and performance. The gear shifter and steering wheel also receive the Alcantara treatment, while a trim insert on the passenger side of the dashboard appears to be made from forged carbon fibre.
Performance Expectations
While official performance figures have yet to be released, speculation is rife that the GRMN Corolla will feature a power increase over the current GR model. The existing 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which delivers 221kW and 400Nm, is expected to receive a boost, enhancing the vehicle’s already impressive capabilities.
“The Gazoo Racing team is still working to fine-tune this vehicle to make it ready for Akio Toyoda’s final test drive,” Toyota confirmed in March, highlighting the meticulous development process behind the GRMN Corolla.
In March 2025, Toyota released teaser images of the GRMN Corolla, cloaked in camouflage, following sightings of a prototype undergoing testing at Germany’s Nürburgring circuit. This testing ground is renowned for its challenging conditions, making it a fitting venue for refining high-performance vehicles.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The GRMN Corolla continues Toyota’s tradition of producing high-performance vehicles that cater to enthusiasts seeking a blend of speed, agility, and innovation. The GRMN badge has been synonymous with excellence, a legacy that began with models like the GRMN Yaris, which received acclaim for its dynamic performance and limited availability.
With Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s Chairman, personally involved in the final approval process under his racing pseudonym ‘Morizo’, the GRMN Corolla is poised to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. This involvement underscores Toyota’s commitment to ensuring that each GRMN model meets the highest standards of performance and quality.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the introduction of the GRMN Corolla represents Toyota’s dedication to maintaining its presence in the high-performance segment. The vehicle is expected to attract a dedicated following among enthusiasts and collectors alike, further cementing the GRMN brand’s reputation.
With the official reveal on the horizon, the automotive world eagerly awaits more details on the GRMN Corolla’s specifications and availability. This development marks another chapter in Toyota’s storied history of performance engineering.
