Lean & mean: GR Corolla by Tom's Racing looks totally lit

Tom's Racing just made the GR Corolla look even meaner

Last year, Toyota surprised everyone when they unleashed the GR Corolla. Pumping out 304 PS and 370 Nm of torque to all four wheels, this little pocket rocket from Toyota is more powerful than the GR Yaris and is aimed squarely against the FL5 Honda Civic Type R.

Aside from the fact that it's one of the most powerful hatchbacks Toyota has ever built, it's also one sleekest and most dynamic-looking vehicles from the automaker. With its rally-inspired design and aggressive stance, Toyota hit the nail right on the head in terms of its looks.

But Toyota tuner Tom's Racing thinks they can do one better in making the GR Corolla look even meaner. Partnering with Japanese rally driver Takamoto Katsuta, Tom's Racing revealed the GR Corolla Type TK, and boy does it look mean as heck.

Starting with the front end, the dressed-up hot hatch now comes with a more prominent grille and a new bumper that features canards on both sides. It also gets a new front lip spoiler to make the front fascia look more dramatic. While the upgrades may look like they're only cosmetic, Tom's did say that the upgrades give the vehicle better cooling and aerodynamics.

A new set of side skirts are also present on the GR Corolla Type TK which further accentuates the hatchback's wide body. Meanwhile, the rear is dominated by a sportier rear bumper with a rear diffuser, a stylish rear wing, as well as two additional exhausts – resulting in the hot hatch now having a total of five. Overall, the GR Corolla TK by Tom's Racing looks lean and mean.

Pricing for the exterior upgrades is not yet available. However, we can expect them to cost a pretty penny. Tom's Racing will begin accepting pre-orders on March 1, 2023, while the kit itself will be launched between the months of September and November.

There's no official word yet if Toyota Motor Philippines will actually bring the GR Corolla here (Thailand already has it). But given the success of the GR Yaris, perhaps TMP is just waiting for the right moment to launch it here. If you're one of the lucky few that plans to get one, will you upgrade it with Tom's Racing new kit?