The Toyota GR Yaris has not been a perfect hot hatch since its initial introduction.
This is because there is still room for innovation and improvement by Toyota Gazoo Racing to enhance the driving experience.
Building on the experience gained from the 2025 Nurburgring 24 Hours, Toyota Gazoo Racing has introduced the GR Yaris MORIZO RR, developed in collaboration with Master Driver Akio Toyoda — better known as Morizo.
In terms of exterior features, the GR Yaris MORIZO RR comes equipped with a larger fixed rear wing made of carbon fiber, a front spoiler, side skirts, a carbon fiber engine hood, yellow brake calipers, Matte Bronze rims, a MORIZO RR emblem, and Morizo’s signature on the windshield.
The cabin features an exclusive GR suede-wrapped steering wheel with a smaller diameter.
If you notice, the layout of the function buttons is different from that of the existing GR Yaris; this setup is more similar to what is used in the GR Yaris Rally2 rally car.
Finally, the GR-Four drive mode selector now includes a special “PUSH MORIZO” function, replacing the Gravel mode found in the standard GR Yaris.
In this mode, developed in partnership with MORIZO, the power distribution is set to 50:50 between the front and rear wheels.
The driving aspects have also been enhanced with suspension settings recalibrated based on the road surface at Nurburgring, ensuring a balance between comfort and sporty handling.
The Electric Power Steering (EPS) has also been recalibrated by GAZOO Racing.
The Toyota GR Yaris MORIZO RR will be produced in a limited run of 100 units for the Japanese market, and applications can be submitted through the official TGR app, the GR App.
An additional 100 units will also be offered in select markets across Europe.
Do you think that with the power upgrade and automatic transmission offering, the Toyota GR Yaris is already perfect?
It seems your assumption is completely wrong, once again!
Officials at Toyota Gazoo Racing still see room for improvement in this model with the introduction of the “Aero Performance” package for the GR Yaris.
Developed through extensive racing experience and input from professional drivers, this latest package can maximize the aerodynamic performance and cooling aspects of the hot hatch.
The Aero Performance package includes six components, five of which are designed to enhance stability at high speeds and aerodynamic performance, such as the front fender vents, fuel tank undertray, rear bumper vents, and adjustable rear wing.
The addition of the front lip spoiler is based on feedback from professional racer Oshima to reduce front lift, thereby improving the aerodynamic balance of the vehicle.
Cooling is addressed by an aluminum engine hood with vents, sharing the same design as the carbon fiber hood used in the GRMN Yaris model.
The basic specifications of the GR Yaris remain unchanged, featuring the G16E-GTS engine that generates 304 PS and 400 Nm of torque, with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed DAT transmission and the GR-Four all-wheel drive system.
In Japan, the Toyota GR Yaris with the Aero Performance package is priced starting at 4,055,000 yen (approximately RM115,911).
The Rally Finland event, set to take place from July 31 to August 3, will witness the debut of a vehicle specially developed by Toyota Gazoo Racing and powered by hydrogen.
The rally vehicle in question is the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept, built on the proven GR Yaris Rally2 chassis.
Developed at the TGR-WRT headquarters located in Jyväskylä, Finland, the true capabilities of this hydrogen rally vehicle have also been tested on roads around the area, including the gravel surfaces typically used in Rally Finland.
For its inaugural appearance, the GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept will be driven by four-time world champion Juha Kankkunen, who is also the deputy principal of the TGR-WRT team.
The combination of Toyota and hydrogen engines is not unfamiliar in the world of motorsports.
Hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines were used in racing through the Corolla vehicle in 2021, during the Super Taikyu endurance racing series.
This technology was showcased on the European rally stage for the first time in 2022 with the experimental GR Yaris H2 at the FIA World Rally Championship round in Belgium, driven by Akio Toyoda and Juha Kankkunen.
Unlike the GR Yaris Rally1, which uses a four-cylinder inline engine, the GR Yaris Rally2 uses the same engine found in the production version of the GR Yaris, which is the G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbo unit.
However, the fuel supply and injection systems have been modified to accommodate hydrogen fuel.
More importantly, this engine still manages to deliver performance, as well as the sound and sensations that rally fans crave, all while achieving near-zero emissions—a feat that is challenging for any high-performance EV to provide.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the arrival of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift hot hatch, which is now available in an 8-speed automatic variant.
The introduction of this model complements the previously launched manual version of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift during the conclusion of the seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival in Malaysia.
The GR Yaris continues to feature the 1.6-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, G16E-GTS, which now produces 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
With the newly paired automatic DAT transmission, the GR Yaris can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
This high-performance engine is also equipped with a standard cooling package, which includes a sub-radiator, intercooler spray, and a combination of air and fluid ATF coolers to ensure consistent performance, especially under Malaysia’s hot weather.
Additionally, this Automatic variant of the GR Yaris introduces new features such as Launch Control and paddle shifters, which have been fine-tuned based on motorsport experience to provide a more exciting driving experience for everyday journeys.
Finally, it comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes pre-collision warnings, radar cruise control, lane tracing assistance (LTA), and Expert Mode for drivers seeking a more dynamic control without completely disabling the vehicle stability system.
For the Malaysian market, the Toyota GR Yaris AT is priced at RM325,600 and is available at all GR Garage dealers nationwide.
About a year after the introduction of the facelifted GR Yaris model, Toyota still sees room for improvement in this compact sports car.
For the 2026 model update, Toyota Gazoo Racing has focused on several aspects.
One of the key updates is making the Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) gearbox more responsive to driver input.
Additionally, handling and chassis control have been enhanced with the use of larger-diameter suspension component fasteners, combined with recalibrated shock absorbers and an electric power steering (EPS) system.
Buyers can also opt for a vertical parking brake inspired by rally sports for the new GR Yaris.
Not stopping there, Toyota now offers an aerodynamic body kit (Aero Performance Package), which includes a vented aluminum hood, front lip spoiler, fender vents, flat fuel tank cover, adjustable rear wing, and rear bumper air openings.
The Toyota GR Yaris continues to feature the three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine, generating 304 PS and 400 Nm of torque, paired with the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system and an option for either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic DAT.
In Japan, the GR Yaris is priced between 3,560,000 yen and 5,330,000 yen (approximately RM 109,859 to RM 164,480).
As the largest automotive manufacturer, Toyota rarely disappoints its fans during the Tokyo Auto Salon events.
For the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota unveiled a prototype hot hatch known as the GR Yaris M Concept.
Unlike the standard GR Yaris, the GR Yaris M Concept is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine (code-named G20E) that replaces the existing three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine.
What’s even more surprising is that the new engine is not positioned at the front; instead, it is placed in a mid-ship layout.
According to Toyota, these changes aim to explore the potential of the GR Yaris hot hatch, and they also plan to race this vehicle in the Super Taikyu series.
This prototype will be fully tested on the racetrack while receiving valuable feedback from professional drivers, including Morizo (Akio Toyoda).
The existence of the GR Yaris M Concept raises a question: is this a significant indicator of the upcoming new MR2 model?
In conjunction with the closing ceremony of the seventh season of Toyota Gazoo Racing, UMW Toyota Motor has launched three high-performance models for the Malaysian market: the 2025 GR Yaris, 2025 GR Corolla and the Corolla GR Sport.
According to UMW Toyota Motor President, Datuk Ravindran K, “Driving is not just about moving from one destination to another, but an emotional experience that connects the soul with the road, bringing joy to every journey.”
“With the launch of the GR and GR Sport models, Toyota continues its legacy by elevating the driving experience to extraordinary levels. Developed with a spirit of performance, these models are designed to inspire and excite every Malaysian.”
2025 Toyota GR Yaris facelift
The hot hatch, born from Toyota’s involvement in WRC racing, is still powered by a 1.6-liter inline three-cylinder turbo engine that generates 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
For the Malaysian market, it is still offered in a six-speed manual version, along with the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system.
Engine performance is enhanced with the addition of a sub-radiator and an intercooler spray system for optimal operation under extreme pressure.
It has been reported that the GR Yaris with an eight-speed automatic transmission (DAT) is expected to follow later.
Changes to the exterior include a completely new front bumper structure with the Functional Matrix Grille Ver. 2, designed to maximize airflow and cooling, followed by new rear lamp units, an exhaust system, and a diffuser.
Inside the cabin, the dashboard layout has been completely revamped, incorporating elements from rally racing and the Super Taikyu Series.
In comparison to the previous GR Yaris, the control panel and display screen have been positioned at a 15-degree angle, allowing the driver easier access to the desired functions.
Additionally, the driving position has been improved, now with the driver sitting 25 mm lower and the rearview mirror raised.
There is also a full 12.3-inch TFT digital cluster display.
The GR Yaris 2025 facelift is priced at RM315,600.
2025 Toyota GR Corolla facelift
Like the GR Yaris hot hatch, the GR Corolla facelift is also powered by the G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine, producing 300 PS and 400 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system.
The driving aspects of the GR Corolla have been enhanced with upgraded suspension systems, providing benefits in grip levels, agility, and stability.
Aerodynamically, the GR Corolla features a completely new bumper design for improved airflow, while the wheel arches have been widened for a bolder appearance.
The hot hatch image, inspired by rally sports, is complemented by an updated interior featuring performance-oriented seats, gun-metallic finishes, a 9-inch central display, and a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen.
There are several attractive color options available, including Platinum White Pearl Mica, Precious Black, Precious Metal, and Emotional Red 2.
The Toyota GR Corolla 2025 is priced starting from RM367,000.
2025 Toyota Corolla GR Sport
Another model launched is the Corolla GR Sport 2025, which is a more practical yet sporty option.
This C-segment sedan is still powered by a 1.8-liter engine producing 139 PS and 172 Nm, but it comes with a Sport Sequential CVT transmission that offers 10 virtual speeds.
In terms of appearance, the Corolla GR Sport features a two-tone color scheme, a unique GR Sport grille with a hexagonal pattern, aerodynamic accents on the bumper, 18-inch GR Sport alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler.
Inside the cabin, the Corolla GR Sport showcases suede and premium leather-trimmed seats, a GR steering wheel, and a 10-inch central screen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This sedan is available in several two-tone color options, including Platinum White Pearl Mica, Red Mica Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica.
The Toyota Corolla GR Sport 2025 is priced starting from RM149,800.
The tighter current emission regulations have forced Toyota to shorten the lifespan of the existing rear-wheel-drive GR86 model to make way for a replacement model.
According to a report from the Japanese media Best Car Web, the new generation Toyota GR86 will replace the existing 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Subaru flat-four engine with the G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
This ‘heart’ change is seen as a game-changer for the GR86, considering the purest Toyota sports car has relatively low horsepower (228 hp) compared to its competitors. For comparison, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla can produce 300 hp each.
In addition to the engine swap, Toyota will also add a hybrid system to the new GR86 with a setup similar to that found in the off-road SUV model Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series). Overall, this new GR86 can unleash more than 300 hp to power the rear wheels through a choice of manual or automatic transmission.
This is not the first time news of a powertrain change for the GR86 has been reported. According to the same source last year, Toyota was said to be replacing the Subaru platform to make way for the shorter Lexus IS chassis.
Certainly, the new generation Toyota GR86 with its hybrid engine setup seems poised to close the existing power gap in the compact sports car segment and at the same time delight its fans worldwide.
Toyota seeks to commemorate the 51st anniversary of its first World Rally Championship (WRC) victory by launching the limited edition GR Yaris model.
With a production limit of 51 units exclusively for the Italian market, the Toyota GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition comes with a unique specification package.
For example, it features a distinctive red decal graphic design inspired by the Corolla 1600 Coupe which won the Press On Regardless Rally championship in Michigan in 1973.
Moreover, this limited edition GR Yaris is adorned with TGR Italy emblems on both the exterior and interior, complete with production serial numbers.
Each of the four wheel arches is adorned with 18-inch forged rims in Heritage Gold color, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires.
Despite these cosmetic changes, no alterations have been made to the heart of the car, the 1.6-liter turbo G16E-GTS three-cylinder inline engine capable of producing 276 hp.
All 51 units of the GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition are offered with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Reservations for this limited edition model will commence on the Toyota Italy website on September 9, and each unit will be sold at €67,500 (RM325,917).
Interested buyers will need to pay a deposit of €2,000 (RM9,657), and notably, Toyota also provides a test drive session in a racing car, two VIP passes for the TGR Italy 2025 event, special car protection, and branded sportswear from Gazoo Racing.
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