### The Quest for the Perfect Lap Time When the Toyota GR Corolla Lightning Lap challenge was announced, we were excited to see how the eight-speed-automatic variant would stack up against its six-speed-manual counterpart. However, what we didn't expect was for the automatic GR to be able to replicate the manual Morizo Edition's sub-3:00 lap time. As we delved into the data, we discovered that the automatic GR's limitations lay not in its power or weight, but in its gearbox and tires. ### A Tale of Two Tires Our initial testing showed that the automatic GR's slow to acknowledge paddle flicks and comically narrow upshift window led to lost tenths in Oak Tree and Hog Pen. Its optimal upshift window was also a problem, as the car would stumble on the fuel cutoff when too close to the redline. We were eager to solve this issue, so we brought a ...
### The Quest for the Perfect Lap Time
When the Toyota GR Corolla Lightning Lap challenge was announced, we were excited to see how the eight-speed-automatic variant would stack up against its six-speed-manual counterpart. However, what we didn’t expect was for the automatic GR to be able to replicate the manual Morizo Edition’s sub-3:00 lap time. As we delved into the data, we discovered that the automatic GR’s limitations lay not in its power or weight, but in its gearbox and tires.
### A Tale of Two Tires
Our initial testing showed that the automatic GR’s slow to acknowledge paddle flicks and comically narrow upshift window led to lost tenths in Oak Tree and Hog Pen. Its optimal upshift window was also a problem, as the car would stumble on the fuel cutoff when too close to the redline. We were eager to solve this issue, so we brought a set of Morizo wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s to the track. However, the Lightning Lap rule book strictly forbids posting times with non-homologated hardware.
### Experimentation and Innovation
Undeterred, we bolted on the unofficial “Car and Driver Morizo GR Performance package” and ran a 3:02.5. This time, the car came alive, with turn 1 grip jumping from 0.93 to 1.00 g, exit speed out of the Climbing Esses increasing by 4.3 mph, and the lap time dropping to 3:02.5. The all-wheel-drive coupler even seemed happier, no longer triggering its overheat warning.
### Conclusion
While the automatic GR Corolla may not be the fastest car on the track, it’s clear that the right tires can make all the difference. The Morizo Edition’s sub-3:00 lap time is a testament to the car’s potential, and we’re eager to see how the 2025 model will stack up. For now, we’ll have to settle for the 3:02.5, but we’re confident that with the right hardware, this car can reach new heights.
### Grip and Grin
*Turn 1 grip: 0.93 g → 1.00 g (+0.07 g)*
*Exit speed: 121.8 mph → 126.1 mph (+4.3 mph)*
*Lap time: 3:07.1 → 3:02.5 (-0.4.6)*
### Technical Details
*Vehicle:** 2025 Toyota GR Corolla
*Trim:** Automatic
*Model Year:** 2025
*Body Type:** 5-door hatchback
*Engine:** 2.0L inline-4
*Power:** 300 hp
*Torque:** 3339 lb-ft
*Tires:** Michelin Pilot Sport 4 235/40ZR-18 (95Y)
*Dimensions:** Length: 172.4 in, Width: 70.9 in, Height: 56.3 in
*Weight:** 3339 lb
*0–100 km/h Time: 5.4 s
*Top Speed: 155 mph
*Fuel Economy: 32 mpg combined
*Chassis:** MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension
*Brakes: Brembo front brakes, ventilated rear brakes
*Infotainment:** 9-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
### Description:
The 2025 Toyota GR Corolla Lightning Lap challenge showcases the car’s potential, but also highlights its limitations. With the right tires, the automatic GR can reach new heights, but for now, it falls short of its manual counterpart.
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