The Toyota GR Yaris, a car already revered by enthusiasts for its performance, is now taking things to the next level with a new, revised model. Available for order in Japan, the updated hot hatch builds on Toyota’s deep motorsport experience, including lessons learned from the Super Taikyu Series and Japanese Rally Championship. This iteration promises to offer even more thrilling driving experiences, whether on the road or the track.
Aggressive Styling and Performance Enhancements
Visually, the GR Yaris embraces a more aggressive and dynamic look, with several key updates aimed at improving both its appearance and functionality. Key features include:
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New front lip spoiler and front fender vents to improve airflow and engine cooling.
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A ventilated aluminium bonnet to reduce weight and enhance performance.
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A reshaped rear bumper for a more athletic stance.
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The standout addition: an adjustable rear wing that offers aerodynamic advantages, improving stability at high speeds without sacrificing everyday usability.
These changes highlight Toyota’s commitment to blending race-inspired design with practical road-going features.
Performance: Refined for Enthusiasts
Under the hood, the GR Yaris receives significant upgrades to improve its driving dynamics. Toyota’s Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission has been fine-tuned for faster shift timing, making the car more responsive and engaging. The throttle response has also been sharpened, encouraging more spirited driving. For purists, a six-speed manual transmission remains available, ensuring that enthusiasts have their choice of driving experience.
Toyota’s engineers also focused on improving the overall chassis and handling. Key updates include:
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Stronger chassis bolts for improved rigidity.
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Updated suspension for better ride quality and cornering precision.
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Tweaked steering system for enhanced feedback and driving engagement.
These adjustments were done with significant input from professional drivers, ensuring the GR Yaris remains both a fun and capable machine on both the road and track.
Aero Performance Package: Boosting Downforce and Cooling
A headline feature for the updated GR Yaris is the newly available Aero Performance Package, previewed as a concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year. This package is designed to enhance the car’s aerodynamics and cooling, with features such as:
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Vented bonnet and larger front lip for improved airflow.
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Fender ducts and underbody fuel tank covers to reduce drag and optimize performance.
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A more advanced rear wing designed to increase downforce for better stability at speed.
These additions are aimed at making the GR Yaris not only faster but also more practical for daily use, combining track-ready enhancements with road-going comfort.
Interior and Pricing
Inside, the GR Yaris has received some important updates as well. All models now come standard with Toyota Safety Sense, the brand’s comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, adding peace of mind to its high-performance credentials. Additionally, a rally-style vertical handbrake is available across the range, giving the car a more motorsport-inspired feel.
As for pricing in Japan, the GR Yaris starts at ¥3,560,000 (around R469,600), with the RZ High-Performance model priced at ¥5,330,000 (around R703,000). The range-topping model features a 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine that produces 224 kW and 400 N.m of torque, with power sent to all four wheels.
Global Availability and Future Prospects
Toyota has not yet confirmed the availability of the updated GR Yaris outside Japan, but given the model’s global popularity, an international launch is expected. With its improved performance, aggressive styling, and added features, the GR Yaris is poised to continue its legacy as one of the most exciting hot hatches on the market.
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