Toyota Unveils Updated GR Yaris with Motorsports-Inspired Upgrades

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) has opened orders for the evolved GR Yaris in Japan. This refreshed hot hatch benefits from lessons learned in motorsports, including the Super Taikyu Series and Japanese Rally Championship, with updates that sharpen both performance and driver engagement.

At the heart of the changes is an improved GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission. Toyota fine-tuned the gear shift control, made the throttle response sharper during spirited driving and optimized shift timing for full-throttle sprints. The sense of connection between driver and car has also been enhanced through stronger chassis bolts, refined suspension and improved steering feedback developed with professional drivers.

TGR also announced that an Aero Performance Package — first seen as a concept at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 — will be offered as a factory-installed option from autumn onward. Developed through rigorous racing trials, the package includes a vented aluminum hood, front lip spoiler, fender ducts, fuel tank undercovers, a variable rear wing and rear bumper vents. These parts boost downforce, stability and cooling without compromising daily usability.

All trim levels now come standard with Toyota Safety Sense, and a rally-style vertical parking brake is available across the lineup. Prices in Japan start at ¥3,560,000 JPY ($24,886 USD) for the manual RC and go up to ¥5,330,000 JPY ($37,261 USD) for the automatic RZ “High Performance” model  — deliveries are set to begin on May 6.