This week, Toyota unveiled the 2026 GR Corolla for North America, about a week after the version for the Japanese market. As expected, most updates and improvements are shared between regions: the new GR Corolla uses about 15 additional meters of structural adhesive, benefits from improved cooling, and a new premium audio system with a subwoofer. But another announcement from Toyota for existing Japanese GR Corolla owners caught our attention: an optional upgrade program including software that would give early models the same 22 lb-ft torque gain as 2025 and newer vehicles. Naturally, we hoped Toyota would extend this offer overseas; unfortunately, we learned that will not be the case.
Disappointing Official Confirmation
A Toyota North America spokesperson stated that unfortunately, there will be no software update for U.S. GR Corollas, and that’s a real shame. Not only does this update unlock additional torque, bringing it to 295 lb-ft, matching the new models, but it also adjusts the hot hatch’s torque distribution system.
Revised Driving Modes
The 2023 and 2024 GR Corollas had three power distribution options: a default 60/40 mode (60% to the front axle, 40% to the rear), a 30/70 mode, and a Track mode that was simply 50/50. But starting with last year’s model, Toyota modified this system. There is still a Normal 60/40 mode, but the Track mode was changed to dynamically vary from 60/40 up to 30/70 to optimize grip. Meanwhile, a 50/50 mode still exists, but it’s now called Gravel.
A Missed Opportunity for U.S. Owners
It appears Toyota North America will not allow U.S. owners to pay to experience these improvements themselves. In Japan, the automaker indicates the program’s availability is planned for next spring. The price has not yet been announced.
Unfulfilled Promises of the Software Era
It’s truly a disappointment. When it comes to technology, I’m very optimistic. I believe it can make our vehicles better. One of the great advantages of this new automotive era defined by software, according to manufacturers, is the opportunity for once rigid and static products to change and improve without needing new parts or hardware. The GR Corolla may be old-school, in the sense that it runs solely on gasoline and is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, but it is still governed by software. Japanese customers will have the chance to benefit from it and improve their cars. That’s great.
Untapped Potential
The problem, often, is that we all endure the negative aspects of technology without being able to enjoy the positives. And this would have been a positive! I know cynics will be skeptical of any company selling more performance via a software update, but the fact is the GR Corolla and Yaris demand a lot from their small turbocharged three-cylinder engines, and if Toyota initially preferred caution by limiting torque, and now believes it’s no longer necessary, that’s perfectly fine with me.
In the end, it was just about giving people a choice. It’s a low-volume car, and the people who own it will know this update exists somewhere but is denied to them. Given how the GR Corolla has been improved each year, this update could have gone a long way in easing their fear of missing out.