Toyota will build GR Corollas in the UK because of its ‘deep motorsport culture’

Toyota will build the GR Corolla in the UK from 2026 partly to cope with demand, and partly because of our excellent motorsport culture and expertise as the primary reasons. Basically, Toyota reckons we're pretty good at building fast things.

The GR Corolla will be manufactured at Toyota’s Burnaston plant, near Derby, where the standard Corolla and Corolla Touring Sports models are currently being produced. Makes sense, considering the two cars share a few exterior panels and interior trim.

Something that certainly isn’t shared is the engine: a punchy little 1.6-litre three-pot that also features in the equally punchy (and brilliant) GR Yaris. Which means 300bhp and 295lb ft, enough to chalk off 0-62mph in five seconds. (These GR engines are built in Toyota’s Motomachi plant in Japan.)

OK, we know what you’re thinking: the GR Corolla’s being built here, but we can’t buy one. Well, Toyota has confirmed future markets and production volume strategy will be clarified over the coming months. And having acknowledged the UK’s love for racy things, there’s reason enough for us to be optimistic.

Optimism that runs to the even racier GR Corollas Toyota’s been working on...