The 2023 Toyota GR Corolla isn't even out yet and already the hot hatch is receiving its second special model, the Morizo Edition. First, though, a recap of the GR Corolla for those only tangentially aware of the thing: It's a 300-hp, 273-lb-ft, all-wheel-drive mighty mite, powered by a more powerful version of the turbocharged G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine from the global GR Yaris that isn't sold in America. A host of body add-ons, suspension and brake fortifications, chassis-stiffening measures, a triple-outlet exhaust, and interior upgrades make it the hottest Corolla in, well, probably ever, and (at least for now) a six-speed manual is the only transmission. The originally announced lineup includes the Core model and the other special model, the hotter Circuit Edition; the latter will be a one-year-only special unlike the Morizo, which will be extremely limited but continue year to year.

The Morizo Edition carries over the Circuit Edition's forged carbon-fiber roof panel, front and rear mechanical Torsen limited-slip differentials, aerodynamic pieces, and body kit, but goes further down the lightweighting rabbit hole by ditching the rear seat and adding a set of 18-inch forged wheels. The rear wiper and wiper motor are gone, too, and since there's no rear seat, the rear door speakers and window regulators have also been binned. Total weight savings are just over 100 pounds, with the Morizo edition's claimed curb weight coming in at 3,186 pounds versus the Circuit Edition's 3,292.

As in other GR Corollas, the Morizo edition's AWD system is driver-adjustable to deliver 60/40, 30/70, or 50/50 front-to-rear torque splits. The 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine makes more peak torque here, however, with the new total of 295 lb-ft available from 3,250 to 4,600 rpm. The GR Corolla Morizo Edition also receives an exclusive closer-ratio version of the short-throw manual gearbox (which keeps its rev-matching function), and shorter differential gears are fitted for even punchier acceleration. Morizo Edition-exclusive ducts route cooling air to the 14.1-inch vented and slotted front brake rotors, which team with 11.7-inch rear discs to handle hauling the hatch down from speed.

Sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber that's 10 mm wider than on other GR Corollas should mean the GR Corolla Morizo grips for days, while the specially tuned monotube dampers are painted red because why not? While the regular GR Corolla already claims to be way more structurally stiff than the regular Corolla hatch, two additional rear strut-tower braces make the Morizo even stiffer. Toyota says the car will fit a set of four tires inside for heading to track days.