Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced the arrival of the updated GR Yaris – a performance icon that continues to blur the line between rally car and road car. Developed with direct input from Toyota GAZOO Racing and honed on the world’s toughest rally stages, the latest GR Yaris now introduces an automatic transmission option for the first time, alongside the traditional manual – making its motorsport DNA accessible to an even wider audience.
Born from Rally, Built for the Road
Since its debut in 2021, the GR Yaris has become a cornerstone of Toyota’s GAZOO Racing brand and a favourite among driving purists, accounting for 38% of all GR model sales locally. Every aspect of the car – from its lightweight body to its turbocharged engine and GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system – reflects Toyota’s philosophy of “making ever-better cars through motorsport.”
The updated model now raises the bar even further, delivering more power, sharper handling, and advanced driver-focused technology, while retaining the raw, rally-inspired spirit that defines it.
Precision Meets Convenience
The biggest news is the addition of the eight-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (GR-DAT) – a cutting-edge system designed specifically for performance driving. Developed and tested under demanding rally conditions, including the Japan Rally Championship, this gearbox delivers rapid, intelligent gear changes that anticipate driver behaviour and adapt to the intensity of driving.
Unlike conventional automatics, the GR-DAT prioritises responsiveness and control. Its predictive software optimises shift timing under full-throttle acceleration, while maintaining the mechanical robustness expected from a GR product. The result is a transmission that allows drivers to fully exploit the GR Yaris’s potential – whether navigating tight corners, attacking a racetrack, or simply enjoying a spirited drive.
More Power, More Control
Under the hood, the updated GR Yaris now produces 210 kW and 400 Nm from its turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine – making it one of the most powerful production three-cylinders in the world. Paired with Toyota’s sophisticated GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, it delivers remarkable traction, balance, and agility across a variety of driving surfaces – from gravel to asphalt.
Suspension and cooling systems have also been refined for improved stability and durability, ensuring the car performs as impressively on the circuit as it does on daily roads.
Driver-Centric Design
Inside, the cockpit has been reimagined with a clear focus on the driver. Inspired by rally-car ergonomics, key controls and displays have been repositioned for better accessibility and visibility. Highlights include:
- A 12.3-inch GR full-colour TFT meter with performance graphics.
- Revised seating position lowered by 25 mm for improved control.
- Updated display audio angled toward the driver.
- Selectable drive modes (Normal, Sport, Eco) that tailor steering, throttle, and transmission responses.
Premium materials such as BRIN NAUB® upholstery, newly sculpted sport seats, and refined trim details reinforce the car’s dual character – part track machine, part premium performance hatch.
Design That Performs
Externally, subtle yet functional updates enhance the GR Yaris’s performance credentials. A new steel mesh grille improves cooling, a canard-style front bumper increases downforce, and revised LED headlamps sharpen its presence.
The updated GR Yaris also has a front bumper divided into two sections, making it easier and more affordable to replace only the damaged part after incidents such as stone chips during motorsport events.
At the rear, integrated combination lamps, improved airflow openings, and enlarged exhaust outlets contribute to both form and function.
The Spirit of GAZOO Racing
With the updated GR Yaris, Toyota GAZOO Racing continues to deliver on its promise of “pushing the limits for better”. Whether drivers choose the engaging manual or the all-new automatic, they can expect an experience that is equal parts thrilling, precise, and unmistakably Toyota.
Pricing and Service Plan
GR Yaris Rally MT: R942 200
GR Yaris Rally AT: R971 300
All Toyota GR Yaris models come standard with a 9-services/90 000km service plan and a 3-year/100 000km warranty. In addition, customers can purchase service, maintenance or warranty extensions via the comprehensive Toyota dealer network (220 outlets).
Colours: Platinum White Pearl, Lunar Black, Glacier White, Fierce Red and Midnight Grey.
Connected Service
All Toyota owners can sign up for a personal MyToyota profile. MyToyota is designed by Toyota SA to provide a platform for owners to quickly and conveniently access all information and services related to their vehicle(s). Additionally, all new Toyota vehicles are fitted with a device that opens up a whole new world of features. Simply opt in, and you will have access to in-car WiFi capability (with a complimentary 25Gb), along with a host of supplementary Connect services.
