An upgraded GR Yaris was first shown at the most recent Tokyo Auto Salon. The updated version of Toyota’s rally-bred hot hatch has now touched down in SA. The newest version adds the option of an automatic transmission for those who prefer not to conduct their own cog swaps. 

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More Power

The biggest news surrounding the revised GR Yaris is the option of an automatic transmission. The new unit has been dubbed a Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission or GRDAT (not really, we just made that up). The eight-speed torque converter unit has been engineered for competition-fast gear changes according to Toyota. Good news for purists is that the six-speed manual version is still on the local listings. Under the bonnet, the  GR Yaris now boasts 210 kW and 400 N.m of torque, an increase over the previous 198 kW and 360 N.m output. These outputs are still derived from the company’s turbocharged 1,6-litre three-cylinder engine as found in the GR Gorolla.

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Other Changes

There have been other areas of revision. Subtle exterior tweaks improve aerodynamics and cooling, including a wider lower grille.  The body-in-white is also stiffer thanks to a few more spot welds in the construction process. Driver ergonomics have been improved with a lowered seating position by 25 mm (a personal gripe of ours from the first version), improved forward visibility through repositioned mirrors and controls, and a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster tilted towards the driver. Drive modes (Sport, Normal, Eco) adjust steering, throttle, and transmission responses, tailoring the experience from daily driving to spirited track use.

Upgrade GR Yaris Pricing

GR Yaris manual – R897 400
GR Yaris manual – R925 300
Both prices include a 90 000 km service plan and a 3-year/100 000 km warranty.

Learn more about the development process of the upgraded GR Yaris in the video below.