GR Yaris: New Evolution

The Spirit of Competition Refined for the Road

Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) doesn't joke around when it comes to transferring the adrenaline of the track to the asphalt. The most recent proof of this is the unveiling of the perfected GR Yaris, a machine that, since its birth in 2020, has been a rolling test laboratory for the Japanese brand in the most demanding motorsport competitions.

Powerful (contrary to what some press mention, the current 1.6-liter 3-cylinder engine has 304 hp on its technical specifications, not 280) and equipped with even more technology and knowledge acquired in the trenches of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), the Super Taikyu Series, and the Japanese Rally Championship, the small Japanese giant is preparing to raise the bar for performance and driving pleasure.

TGR's philosophy is clear: "Thanks for breaking it." An approach that celebrates the limits imposed by drivers in competitions as golden opportunities to improve their vehicles.

Each breakdown, each challenge faced in the extreme conditions of racing, is meticulously analyzed to identify points for improvement. Telemetry data, steering sensitivity, and even damage to parts are scrutinized to ensure that the next step in the evolution of the GR Yaris makes it even more capable and exciting.

And this evolution is palpable in the model now presented. One of the most anticipated novelties is the refinement of the GAZOO Racing Direct automatic transmission. Far from the passivity of some automatic gearboxes, this one was designed to offer a unique experience, almost like a dual-clutch transmission, but with its own personality. The improvements focus on an even more immediate response to driver commands, especially in sporty driving. Faster gear reductions and a wider speed range, a shortened response time when actuating the paddles, and a more direct feel near the redline in manual "SPORT" mode promise to intensify the connection between man and machine.

But the evolution is not limited to the transmission. The feeling of oneness with the car has been enhanced through the use of high-rigidity bolts in the chassis, resulting in more precise steering and greater straight-line stability. The shock absorbers have been recalibrated, and the electric power steering (EPS) has been fine-tuned with the precious help of professional racing driver Kazuya Oshima, seeking perfect linearity between the steering wheel movement and the response of the wheels.

Also considering drivers of the automatic version, TGR has enlarged the area of the footrest, a small detail that can make all the difference in comfort and control during more enthusiastic driving. And a novelty that will certainly please purists is the availability of the vertical parking brake as an option on all versions, a direct inheritance from the experience in rallies, where an effective handbrake is crucial for precise maneuvers.

In the chapter of safety, Toyota demonstrates its commitment by making the Toyota Safety Sense system standard equipment on all versions of the GR Yaris. An important step in democratizing driver assistance technologies that were previously optional or exclusive to more equipped versions.

Aerodynamics That Come From the Track

For those looking to take the performance of the GR Yaris to a higher level, TGR presents the Aero Performance Package, a set of six aerodynamic elements meticulously developed and tested in the Super Taikyu Series and the Japanese Rally Championship competitions. This package, scheduled for launch in the autumn of 2025, is the result of a relentless pursuit of optimizing cooling and aerodynamics, with feedback from professional drivers playing a fundamental role in its development.

The ducted aluminum hood, with a design inspired by the GRMN Yaris, improves engine heat dissipation at high speed.

The front spoiler, tuned for ideal aerodynamic balance, suppresses front lift, increasing ground contact.

The air intakes on the fenders optimize airflow in the front wheel arches, improving steering feel during hard braking and stability in corners.

The fuel tank undercover, inspired by competition cars, optimizes airflow under the body.

The variable rear wing, adjustable for different driving situations, contributes to high-speed stability and reduces snake-like movement during braking.

Finally, the air intakes on the rear bumper minimize drag and the "parachute" effect at high speeds, a solution born from real problems faced in the demanding races of the Super Taikyu Series.

With the evolved GR Yaris and the Aero Performance Package, Toyota Gazoo Racing reinforces its promise to create cars that are not only fast but also provide a visceral connection with the driver, the result of an unwavering passion for motorsport.

For enthusiasts looking for a compact hatchback with the soul of a competition car, the wait until May (for orders, in Japan) and autumn (for the aerodynamic package) promises to be rewarding. The GR Yaris is not just a car; it is the personification of Toyota's "fun to drive" philosophy, elevated to a new level by the relentless experience of the tracks.