This report details an exhilarating track and off-road driving experience with Toyota's high-performance GR series at Sonoma Raceway. The author, an automotive journalist, had the opportunity to put the GR86, GR Supra, and GR Corolla through their paces, evaluating their handling, power, and overall driving dynamics. The event provided a unique insight into Toyota's diverse and engaging performance offerings, showcasing the brand's dedication to engineering exciting vehicles for a wide range of driving enthusiasts, from precision track driving to adventurous off-road excursions.
The automotive landscape is currently enriched by Toyota's incredibly diverse vehicle range. This renowned Japanese manufacturer is ambitiously venturing into nearly every automotive category, producing everything from fuel-efficient hybrid models and practical family sedans to versatile hatchbacks, robust SUVs, sleek coupes, and even highly focused sports cars. Walking into a Toyota dealership today is akin to entering a confectionery, with an overwhelming array of choices. Therefore, when Toyota extended an invitation to Napa for an exclusive opportunity to test drive a curated selection of their vehicles, including various iterations of the GR Corolla and Supra, as well as the contemporary GR86 and Corolla Cross, the decision to attend was immediate and enthusiastic.
On a refreshingly cool morning in California's wine country, the participants were greeted by a vibrant display of Corolla Crosses, GR Corollas, and GR Supras. After a concise product briefing, each attendee was invited to choose a vehicle for a convoy drive to Sonoma Raceway. The main event involved pushing each of these impressive machines to their limits on both the track and a specially designed dirt course. The author's journey began with the 2026 Toyota GR Supra Mk V Final Edition, a model priced at $57,500, in a striking Renaissance Red 2.0 finish, equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Following a dynamic 30-minute drive, it became evident that the Supra's most compelling feature was its potent powertrain. Despite previous reservations about the Mk V Supra's aesthetics and interior design, which felt somewhat dated with a clunky infotainment system, the raw power and captivating exhaust note from its 3.0L turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine quickly overshadowed any criticisms, delivering an undeniably thrilling driver-focused experience.
Upon reaching the raceway, the group was divided into two, with one segment heading to the track and the other to the dirt course. The author opted for the track experience first, getting behind the wheel of various generations of the GR Corolla, GR Supra, and the new GR86 Yuzu. The GR Corolla, with a starting price of $39,920, stood out for its remarkable balance of agility and power, reminiscent of a smaller Supra. Its precise shifter and exhilarating exhaust note made track driving immensely enjoyable, although its tendency to slide around corners suggested a natural inclination for off-pavement adventures. A memorable moment was riding shotgun in the TC Corolla, a pure racing variant, with professional GR Cup driver Westin Workman, whose fearless driving provided an unforgettable, albeit slightly terrifying, demonstration of the car's extreme capabilities.
The GR86, priced at $30,400, presented a different character. While appealing as an accessible sports car, the author found it somewhat underpowered and less stable around corners compared to its siblings. However, its spirited exhaust and short clutch travel offered a more comfortable driving position for shorter individuals, despite a finicky first gear that led to a couple of stalls. The GR Supra ultimately captured the author's admiration, overcoming initial skepticism. Its exceptional planted feel, attributed to wider tires, allowed for aggressive cornering without a hint of tire squeal. The powerful brakes instilled confidence, constantly encouraging faster speeds and harder turns. The only minor drawback was the long clutch pedal travel in manual versions, which necessitated an awkward seating position for optimal clutch engagement.
A notable aspect of the track experience was observing the evolution of Toyota's performance technology across different generations of the GR Supra, GR Corolla, and GR86. Each subsequent model demonstrated enhanced surefootedness, boosting driver confidence and encouraging more aggressive driving. Toyota's engineers meticulously highlighted improvements in the GR Corolla, ranging from increased engine torque and optimized airflow to refined suspension and an advanced track mode. Fascinatingly, seemingly minor details such as additional adhesive for body rigidity, larger bolts, and expanded battery ground connections contributed significantly to the cars' overall performance and enjoyment.
The transition to the dirt and gravel course offered an entirely different thrill. Equipped with a standard GR Corolla, with only 'Gravel Mode' engaged and all electronic aids disabled, the author navigated a miniature rally stage. Despite no prior off-road driving experience, confidence was high thanks to the co-pilot's guidance and the Corolla's impressive capabilities. Full throttle on straights, aggressive braking, and even a well-executed handbrake turn around a tight corner without spinning out made for an exhilarating ride. The experience culminated in learning the Scandinavian Flick maneuver on a separate dirt track with an instructor, a move successfully executed on the first attempt, attributing some credit to hours spent in 'Forza Horizon'.
The comprehensive driving event at Sonoma Raceway proved to be an immensely satisfying experience, pushing Toyota's performance vehicles to their limits on both paved tracks and challenging dirt terrain. The highlight for the author was undoubtedly the dirt stage, an unexpectedly addictive experience that showcased the GR Corolla's remarkable versatility and resilience. Toyota's commitment to delivering enjoyable and capable vehicles across various price points is commendable, suggesting a bright future for automotive enthusiasts. The brand has demonstrated a keen understanding of what makes driving exciting, crafting machines that inspire confidence and pure joy, reinforcing the belief that the passion for driving performance will continue to thrive.