Toyota will produce its GR Corolla hot-hatch at the firm’s Derbyshire factory, in response to stronger than expected demand in the US.
The plant currently produces standard Corolla models for the UK and EU markets.
Production will begin in 2026, however Toyota still does not plan to sell the GR Corolla in the UK, opting to use the UK factory to boost production for the US market.
Yoshihiro Nakata, CEO of Toyota Motor Europe, said: “We are proud that TMUK, our first plant in Europe, has also been selected as the first overseas Toyota plant to produce GR vehicles, securing this expansion project for TGR worldwide.
“We very much appreciate the historical support and recognition of the United Kingdom and would like to continue to contribute to UK society as a ‘Best in Town’ company.”
Currently, the GR Corolla is made exclusively in Japan, making it subject to President Trump’s 25% tariffs, which are set to be reinstated in late July, while UK made cars will benefit from lower tariffs at 10%.
The Derbyshire production line is expected to be capable of producing 10,000 cars each year for the US market, significantly boosting availability for the popular car, which has suffered with long wait times since launching in 2023.
Toyota’s GR factory, which currently produces the GR Corolla, as well as the GR Yaris and GR86, is currently at maximum capacity, producing 25,000 vehicles annually.
