GR Yaris: Now More Powerful – and for the First Time, Available with Automatic Transmission
Toyota South Africa is proud to introduce the updated GR Yaris – a street-legal performance hatch engineered with direct input from the World Rally Championship (WRC).
For the first time, South African enthusiasts can now opt for an automatic transmission, broadening the GR Yaris’ appeal without sacrificing its motorsport DNA.
From Rally Stage to Road
The GR Yaris has always stood apart as a rally car reimagined for the road. Developed by Toyota Gazoo Racing and honed on some of the world’s toughest rally circuits, it embodies Toyota’s philosophy of motorsport-driven innovation.
Every component, from its drivetrain to its chassis, reflects the brand’s relentless pursuit of performance.
Precision Meets Convenience
A major highlight of the latest update is the introduction of the eight-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission. This cutting-edge unit is purpose-built for high-performance driving, delivering lightning-fast shifts that allow the driver to maintain full focus on throttle control and steering inputs.
Unlike traditional automatics, this transmission features intelligent, predictive shift logic that adapts to driving behaviour. The result is a seamless, intuitive driving experience, whether you’re on a winding mountain road or in stop-start city traffic.
Having undergone extensive testing – including competition use in the Japan Rally Championship – the GR Direct Auto offers race-level shift speed while preserving Toyota’s trademark durability and thermal performance, crucial for sustained spirited driving.
Accessible Performance, Without Compromise
With the introduction of an automatic option, the GR Yaris becomes more accessible to driving enthusiasts who demand convenience but refuse to compromise on control or engagement. Whether navigating the daily commute or pushing limits on a closed circuit, the GR Yaris delivers unfiltered performance in every scenario.
More Power, Greater Control
Under the bonnet, the updated GR Yaris boasts increased output from its turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine – now delivering 210kW and 400Nm of torque. Paired with Toyota’s GR-FOUR all-wheel drive system, it offers superb traction and dynamic stability across all surfaces, from tarmac to gravel.
Driver-Focused Interior Upgrades
Inside, the cockpit has been reengineered with the driver in mind. The revised seating position improves visibility and control, while the newly introduced 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides clearer, more actionable driving data. Inspired by rally design, key controls have been repositioned for quicker access and intuitive use.
Selectable drive modes – Sport, Normal, and Eco – further enhance versatility by adapting throttle response, steering feel, and transmission behaviour to the driving context.
GR Yaris Pricing and Colours
The GR Yaris is available in Glacier White, Platinum Pearl White, Midnight Grey, Lunar Black, and Fierce Red.
Pricing is as follows:
- Manual: R897,400
- Automatic: R925,300
All models include a 90,000km (9 services) service plan and a 3-year/100,000km warranty.
MyToyota Connectivity
All Toyota customers are encouraged to register a personal MyToyota profile – a digital portal offering quick access to vehicle information and services. New Toyota models are equipped with a connected device, enabling in-car Wi-Fi (with 25GB complimentary data) and access to a host of Toyota Connect features. This integration ensures that GR Yaris owners remain connected on and off the road.
Related Content
