TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) has launched a newly evolved version of the GR Yaris, reinforcing its commitment to continuous performance improvement through motorsport development. Leveraging insights from championship-level rallying, the latest GR Yaris enhances its driving dynamics, transmission response, and driver engagement across the board.

Key Highlights of the Evolved GR Yaris

• Refined 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission for faster, more intuitive gear shifts
• Enhanced steering response and improved straight-line stability via upgraded suspension mounting
• Retuned electric power steering and shock absorbers for superior handling and ride comfort
• Motorsport-style vertical handbrake now available with both manual and automatic gearboxes

Born from Rally: Performance Perfected Through Competition

Since its debut in 2020, the GR Yaris has been continuously improved through rigorous motorsport testing in events like the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), Super Taikyu, and the Japanese Rally Championship. This real-world feedback loop has led to deep mechanical insights—fueling the GR Yaris’ evolution and strengthening TGR’s philosophy of making ever-better cars through motorsport.

From analyzing driving data to inspecting worn parts, TGR engineers pushed the GR Yaris to the limit, identifying every opportunity to refine its performance and durability.

Advanced Transmission for Racing-Level Precision

The updated 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission delivers lightning-fast shifts, fine-tuned to enhance sporty driving. Adjustments to gear selection logic and throttle response provide a more natural and exhilarating two-pedal driving experience. A wider footrest has also been added for improved comfort and control during spirited driving sessions.

Sharper Handling and Connected Steering

To further tighten the bond between car and driver, Toyota has upgraded key suspension mounting points:

• Higher-rigidity bolts and flanges now fasten critical suspension components, increasing structural responsiveness
• Rear suspension arms, lower ball joints, and shock absorber mounts have been reinforced with newly designed hardware for improved feedback and stability

Combined with recalibrated damping settings, these changes deliver sharper cornering, more precise steering feel, and greater high-speed confidence.

Tuned by the Pros: Steering Like a Race Car

The GR Yaris’ electric power steering system was fine-tuned with direct input from professional racing driver Kazuya Oshima, helping engineers achieve a 1:1 steering response ratio. The result is a significantly more tactile and engaging driving experience, especially noticeable in challenging driving conditions.

Vertical Handbrake Now Available on All Variants

Inspired by WRC rally cars, the vertical handbrake—a favorite among driving enthusiasts for its direct feedback and ease of use—will now be offered on both manual and automatic transmission models. This motorsport-inspired feature further amplifies the GR Yaris’ credentials as a driver-focused hot hatch.

GR Yaris Evolves for a New Era of Performance

The evolved Toyota GR Yaris represents the latest step in GAZOO Racing’s mission to translate motorsport excellence into road-ready performance. With improved transmission response, precision-tuned handling, and race-derived hardware updates, the new GR Yaris is more engaging, more agile, and more connected than ever before.