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For most of the history of the automobile, the car you bought from a manufacturer would stay in the same spec as when you bought it. Dealer-installed accessories were one thing, but manufacturers rarely offered direct upgrades on cars after they left the lot. In the era of software-defined EVs, that has gradually shifted, with major updates and software options that change how cars operate and perform in the real world being shuffled out to buyers' cars months or years after purchase. And now, some brands are even offering increased outputs for internal combustion cars.
The latest recipient of a software-aided boost is the GR Corolla, a car that launched from Toyota with 272 lb-ft of torque but is now sold with a more impressive 295 lb-ft output. Buyers of earlier GR Corollas are in luck, because Toyota announced Friday that the brand plans to eventually offer a "software-inclusive upgrade" for at least the Japanese market. This upgrade comes with a few changes, but the most significant is the addition of an extra 22 lb-ft of torque that brings earlier GR Corollas in line with the extra twisting force offered by newer versions.
The other big change is a shift in how the car distributes torque across its GR-Four all-wheel-drive system. A previous mode marked "rear" that allowed for 30:70 front-rear distribution will be replaced by a "gravel" mode with 50:50 distribution, while a previously fixed 50:50 "track" mode will now offer variable selections ranging from a front-focused 60:40 to the 30:70 that was initially offered by the "rear" selection. The change allows for new versatility for GR Corolla owners, although some owners may miss the existing "rear" selection they use today.
Toyota also says that shifts in the car's supply system mean that the car will be available to more Japanese buyers than ever, easing restrictions on a car initially sold in the region only through lotteries. Other 2026 upgrades set to reach Japan include a new cool air duct and additional structural adhesive for greater body rigidity.
At the moment, these upgrades are exclusive to the Japanese market. American market buyers, including owners of older cars that could be eligible for the software upgrade, should hopefully receive the same benefits soon.
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