Toyota GR Corolla vs. Volkswagen Golf R

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Toyota GR Corolla and Volkswagen Golf R contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Toyota GR Corolla and the Volkswagen Golf R.

When we compare the Toyota GR Corolla's and the Volkswagen Golf R's specifications and ratings, the Toyota GR Corolla has the advantage in the areas of new vehicle base pricing, typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and resale value. The Volkswagen Golf R has the advantage in the areas of fuel efficiency, interior volume and base engine power. Based on this comparison of the Toyota GR Corolla's and the Volkswagen Golf R's specifications and ratings, the two cars are fairly comparable.

Pricing: A used 2025 Toyota GR Corolla ranges from $37,565 to $47,050 while a used 2025 Volkswagen Golf R is priced between $49,999 to $54,806. For a new model, the Toyota GR Corolla's price is between $40,694 and $49,971, with the Volkswagen Golf R priced between $49,189 and $54,972.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Toyota GR Corolla loses 33.1 percent of its value and the Volkswagen Golf R loses 40.8 percent of its value. This means the Toyota GR Corolla retains 7.7 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Volkswagen Golf R.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Toyota GR Corolla’s base engine makes 300 horsepower, and the Volkswagen Golf R base engine makes 328 horsepower. The GR Corolla is rated to deliver an average of 24 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 370 miles. The Golf R is rated to deliver an average of 25 miles per gallon, with a highway range of 450 miles. This gives the Volkswagen Golf R the fuel efficiency and maximum range advantage over the Toyota GR Corolla. Both models use premium unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are compact cars, the Volkswagen Golf R has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front shoulder room, rear head room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The Toyota GR Corolla has the advantage in the areas of front head room, front leg room and rear shoulder room.