UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has launched this Saturday morning the 2026 Toyota GR Corolla Automatic Transmission (AT) in Malaysia, allowing some older and maybe some less diligent drivers to enjoy its amazing performance.
Yes, sadly there are some drivers who want high performance but with just 2 pedals and a smart computer working the ‘shifts’.
Designed for those who aspire to experience the thrill of a motorsports developed car but prefer the ease and confidence of an automatic, the GR Corolla AT combines high-performance engineering with intuitive control and everyday use without compromising the authentic GR driving character.
Equipped with the 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (GR-DAT), the GR Corolla AT delivers fast, precise shifts developed through motorsports, while offering smooth and confidence for daily driving. Paired with its practical 5-door hatchback layout, the GR Corolla AT allows driver to enjoy exhilarating performance in a form that fits seamlessly into everyday life.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, said, “Toyota Gazoo Racing pushes every GR car to its limits, and the GR Corolla carries that same intensity on the road. From the very beginning, it has been about delivering the raw feel, response and intensity of a race-bred machine. With the introduction of the GR Corolla AT, that experience is now more accessible, without compromising its GR character. It remains a car that excites, builds confidence and rewards the driver, allowing more Malaysians to experience authentic GR performance behind the wheel.”
Alongside the launch of the Automatic variant, UMWT also introduced improved updates across the entire GR Corolla range, benefitting both the newly launched AT and the existing GR Corolla Manual Transmission (MT) variant. These updates reinforce Toyota GAZOO Racing’s philosophy of continuous improvement, refining performance, control, and driver confidence through real-world testing and motorsports learnings.
In addition to performance-focused updates, both variants now feature Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) to enhance everyday safety and awareness, as well as a new 10-inch display screen that delivers clearer vehicle information and a more intuitive driver interface—ensuring that advanced technology supports both spirited driving and everyday usability.
The 2026 GR Corolla (AT) is priced from RM378,950 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM 233,500 in Langkawi, while the GR Corolla (MT) which was launched 3 years ago is offered from RM368,950 (good to know that Toyota is NOT retiring the manual gearbox) and RM227,300, respectively.
The GR-DAT introduces a new driving dimension to the GR Corolla lineup. Drive mode delivers smooth acceleration with intelligent gear selection, while SPORT mode sharpens throttle response and delivers more aggressive shift logic for spirited driving. Sequential-style M-mode enhances driver involvement, while Launch Start Control enables controlled, confidence-building acceleration from a standstill. Suspension and ABS tuning have also been refined to further improve stability, braking, and cornering performance.
So, who are the immediate competitors? Well the rivals in Malaysia include the VW Golf R at RM389k which can sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds, on its way to a top track speed of 249km/h, the (sadly discontinued) Renault Megane RS which costs RM326k and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, BMW M135i which is priced at RM356k and takes just 4.8 seconds to make the century sprint and maxes out at a top speed of 250km/h and the RM343k Mercedes-AMG A35 which does the 0-100km/h sprint in also 4.8 seconds.
Visually, the GR Corolla retains its bold, motorsports-inspired design with purposeful refinements to improve airflow, cooling efficiency, and stability. Its wide stance and 5-door hatchback design balances aggressive performance with everyday practicality, making it a performance car designed to be driven, shared, and enjoyed every day.
More than a performance machine, the GR Corolla reconnects drivers with the joy of driving. It allows long-time enthusiasts to rediscover their passion while enabling a new generation to experience authentic motorsport-inspired performance for the first time.
The 2026 GR Corolla AT, together with the improved GR Corolla MT range, is now available in Malaysia through selected GR Garage dealerships nationwide, supported by comprehensive aftersales services and Toyota’s quality assurance.
Discover the GR Corolla range at www.toyota.com.my or experience it at selected GR Garage dealerships nationwide.
By the way, have you heard of the Morizo Edition GR Corolla? (watch video below)
