Unveiling the Beast: The GRMN Corolla Emerges
The Mystery of the GR Corolla: From Teaser to Leaked Reality
Earlier this year, Toyota offered a glimpse of a specialized GR Corolla, adorned in Gazoo Racing’s signature camouflage. The initial teaser showcased enlarged rear spoilers and redesigned fenders, fueling speculation about a potential top-tier GRMN model. Recent photographic evidence, seemingly from an exclusive dealer gathering, now appears to validate these assumptions, offering a comprehensive look at the much-anticipated GRMN variant.
Breaking the Secrecy: How the Images Surfaced
At closed-door automotive presentations, it's customary for attendees to have their mobile devices secured to prevent unauthorized disclosures. However, it seems that someone at this particular event bypassed these protocols, managing to capture and disseminate these revealing images. Assuming the authenticity of these photographs and ruling out advanced AI manipulation, the GRMN Corolla is poised to redefine the high-performance hatchback segment with its radical design.
Exterior Enhancements: A Bold New Look
Toyota has outfitted this elite Corolla version with a carbon-fiber hood featuring prominent vents and a more assertive front bumper design. The presence of amber side marker lights points to a release in the United States, indicating that the GRMN model is destined for American roads. Additionally, the vehicle is equipped with eye-catching bronze wheels, possibly shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires—a choice that signifies its track-ready capabilities while remaining road-legal. The rear profile is completed with a carbon roof spoiler and a distinctive GRMN badge, highlighting its unique identity.
Interior Transformation: Performance Meets Exclusivity
The interior of the GRMN Corolla mirrors the track-focused philosophy seen in the Morizo special edition, featuring a two-seat configuration complemented by sport-oriented bucket seats. The cabin's aesthetic is elevated with extensive use of microfiber, replacing glossy black finishes. A special plate near the six-speed manual shifter hints at a limited production of just 500 units, though the clarity of the image makes a definitive confirmation challenging. A blurred signature on the passenger side of the dashboard further adds to the mystique.
Power Dynamics: More Torque, More Horsepower
Beyond its striking visual modifications, the GRMN Corolla is almost certainly engineered for a significant power boost. Toyota previously hinted at increased torque from its three-cylinder engine, which currently delivers 295 pound-feet (400 Newton-meters). Chief Engineer Naoyuki Sakamoto has also suggested the possibility of exceeding 300 horsepower, promising an exhilarating driving experience.
Exclusivity and Price: A Premium Performance Offering
Prospective buyers should anticipate a starting price upwards of $50,000. The Morizo edition, for instance, retailed for $52,640. Given the GRMN’s limited production volume, it is highly probable that dealer markups will push the final cost closer to $60,000, reflecting its exclusivity and enhanced performance credentials.
BMW's 2025 i7 electric vehicle lineup, a symbol of automotive elegance and technological prowess, is now available with enticing lease programs throughout September. These special offers, including loyalty bonuses for returning customers, aim to make the i7 more attainable for those desiring a top-tier electric sedan.
September Lease Programs for the 2025 BMW i7
In September 2025, BMW has unveiled attractive leasing options for its flagship electric sedan, the i7. The 2025 i7 eDrive50 Sedan is being offered at a monthly payment of $969 for a 36-month term, requiring an initial payment of $8,169. For those seeking enhanced performance and all-wheel-drive capability, the 2025 i7 xDrive60 Sedan is available at $1,199 per month for 36 months, with $9,129 due at signing. At the pinnacle of the range, the 2025 i7 M70 Sedan, boasting over 650 horsepower, can be leased for $1,789 per month over 36 months, with an upfront cost of $11,249. Additionally, current BMW owners may qualify for up to $5,000 in loyalty credits, enhancing the value of these deals. All stated figures exclude taxes, title, and registration fees. These promotions are valid until September 30, 2025.
The BMW i7 series showcases impressive electric range, with the eDrive50 model offering an EPA-estimated 321 miles per charge. The xDrive60 achieves up to 298 miles, and even the high-performance M70 maintains a commendable 291 miles. For convenience, the i7 supports DC fast charging, enabling approximately 80 miles of range to be added in just 10 minutes. Purchasers also receive three years of complimentary 30-minute charging sessions at Electrify America stations. Inside, the i7 provides a luxurious environment with premium materials such as crystal glass controls and Merino leather, complemented by BMW's advanced iDrive 8.5 system on a large curved display. Rear passengers can enjoy an optional 31-inch fold-down theater screen, creating a personalized entertainment experience. Performance across the line is robust, from the eDrive50's smooth acceleration to the M70's super-sedan capabilities, reaching 0–60 mph in the low three-second range.
The new lease programs for the BMW i7 make this prestigious electric vehicle an even more compelling choice for luxury car enthusiasts. With its combination of advanced technology, refined comfort, and dynamic performance, the i7 solidifies BMW's position in the electric luxury market, offering a distinguished option for discerning buyers.
The 2025 Audi A6 and S6 e-tron mark Audi's definitive entry into the all-electric luxury sedan segment, showcasing a fusion of advanced technology, refined performance, and elegant design. Developed on the innovative Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, these models set new benchmarks for electric vehicle capabilities, including extended range, remarkably fast charging, and an unparalleled level of cabin serenity. While both the A6 and the sportier S6 variants deliver substantial power and confident road dynamics, the A6 e-tron particularly shines for its harmonious blend of attributes, making it an exceptionally livable and practical choice for daily commutes and long-distance travel. Audi has successfully engineered vehicles that prioritize a smooth, quiet ride and a premium user experience, appealing to discerning drivers seeking comfort and cutting-edge electric mobility.
Audi's commitment to electrification is evident in the A6 and S6 e-tron's foundation: the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. This dedicated EV platform, co-developed with Porsche, features an 800-volt electrical system, a technology also found in high-performance EVs like the Taycan and e-tron GT. This high-voltage system allows for the use of lighter wiring, reducing overall vehicle weight and minimizing energy loss. Crucially, it enables ultra-fast DC charging at up to 270 kW, significantly reducing charging times and enhancing convenience for owners. Both models are equipped with a substantial 100-kWh battery pack (94.4 kWh usable), providing impressive energy storage for extended journeys.
The A6 e-tron Quattro utilizes a dual-motor configuration, delivering a combined output of 456 horsepower. This setup ingeniously combines a Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Motor (PSM) on the rear axle, known for its efficiency, with an Asynchronous Induction Motor (ASM) on the front. The ASM's ability to decouple when not needed allows the A6 Quattro to operate primarily as a rear-wheel-drive vehicle during cruising, thereby optimizing range. Stepping up to the S6 e-tron, the dual-motor concept is further enhanced with a more potent rear PSM, boosting total system output to 496 hp in normal operation and a temporary 543 hp with launch control or the "BOOST" button engaged. The chassis design is equally sophisticated, featuring a five-link front axle and a multi-link rear suspension, meticulously tuned to manage the weight distribution of the floor-mounted battery. This results in a low center of gravity and near-perfect weight balance, contributing to the vehicles' stable and confident handling. Braking performance is robust, with the S6 e-tron featuring larger calipers, distinguished by their red color, to accommodate its elevated performance capabilities.
The driving experience within the A6 and S6 e-tron is primarily defined by an extraordinary sense of tranquility. The cabins are exceptionally quiet, a testament to both the inherent silence of electric powertrains and Audi's meticulous attention to sound deadening. This isolation, combined with a remarkably low drag coefficient of 0.21, contributes to a serene and comfortable ride. Both models exhibit composed handling and refined road manners. The optional adaptive air suspension, standard on the S6, further enhances comfort by prioritizing a softer ride quality over aggressive feedback, aligning with the vehicles' grand touring character. While acceleration is instantaneous and powerful—the A6 Quattro reaches 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, and the S6 in a sportscar-rivalling 3.7 seconds—the delivery is so seamless and devoid of drama that it can feel somewhat detached for those seeking a more visceral driving engagement. The A6 Quattro, in particular, offers a driving personality that feels more authentically aligned with its design, providing immense performance without sacrificing its core identity as a refined, high-speed cruiser.
Aesthetically, Audi's designers have skillfully blended modern EV sensibilities with the brand's iconic design language. The sleek Sportback silhouette is a defining feature, contributing significantly to the vehicles' class-leading aerodynamics. The inverted, largely closed-off single-frame grille serves as an intelligent housing for various sensors, while the ultra-slim Digital Matrix LED headlights offer customizable daytime running light signatures, adding a touch of personalized flair. The S6 e-tron subtly asserts its performance credentials with larger 20-inch wheels, a more assertive rear diffuser, and distinctive red brake calipers. Inside, the "Digital Stage" dashboard integrates three screens: an 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit, a 14.5-inch MMI touchscreen, and a 10.9-inch passenger display with a privacy filter. Running on an Android Automotive-based OS, the infotainment system is intuitive and responsive. Material quality is superlative, featuring soft-touch surfaces, premium trim options, and Audi's characteristic impeccable fit and finish. The driving position is ergonomically optimized, with supportive seats and excellent visibility, creating a tech-forward yet inviting cabin ambiance.
From a practical standpoint, the 2025 Audi A6 and S6 e-tron offer compelling value and functionality. The A6 e-tron RWD starts at $67,195, while the A6 e-tron Premium Plus Quattro, a popular choice, is priced at $73,095, including features like Bang & Olufsen audio and advanced driver assists. The high-performance S6 e-tron begins at $79,995. These models deliver remarkable EPA-estimated ranges: 392 miles for the RWD A6, 377 miles for the A6 Quattro, and a very practical 324 miles for the S6 e-tron. These figures position Audi competitively against industry leaders like Tesla. The Sportback design further enhances practicality, providing a voluminous 39.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, offering SUV-like versatility in a sleek sedan form factor.
Ultimately, the 2025 Audi A6 and S6 e-tron successfully achieve their objective: delivering highly advanced, long-range, and exceptionally comfortable electric luxury sedans. Their primary strengths lie in their remarkable quietness, leading-edge charging speeds and range, and the meticulous fit and finish that defines the Audi brand. These vehicles are engineering marvels, serving as an effortless mode of daily transport and a serene companion for extended journeys. However, for drivers seeking a raw, emotionally engaging driving experience, the A6 and S6 e-tron's polished and isolated nature might leave something to be desired. They are designed for those who prioritize comfort, quality, and a seamless transition to electric mobility, offering a refined and mature interpretation of the electric luxury sedan that truly stands apart in the competitive EV landscape.