Toyota South Africa has unveiled the latest iteration of its GR Yaris, now offering a high-performance automatic transmission for the first time in the local market. Developed with expertise from Toyota Gazoo Racing’s World Rally Championship (WRC) programme, the updated model aims to broaden its appeal while retaining its motor sport DNA.
The standout addition to the GR Yaris line-up is an eight-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, designed to complement the hatchback’s dynamic capabilities. The gearbox employs predictive software to adapt shift patterns based on driving behaviour, prioritising responsiveness in challenging conditions.
Some stunning pre-owned Toyota Yaris models can be found here - just a click away
Tested in competitive environments such as the Japan Rally Championship, Toyota claims the transmission maintains durability under high-stress driving, a hallmark of the GR brand.
Under the bonnet, the turbo-charged 1,6-litre three-cylinder engine now delivers 210 kW and 400 Nm, paired with Toyota’s GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction on varied surfaces. Updates extend to the interior, where a redesigned 12,3-inch digital dashboard, rally-inspired seating and repositioned controls aim to improve driver engagement. Selectable drive modes (Sport, Normal, Eco) adjust steering, throttle and transmission behaviour to suit different driving scenarios.
Related Content: Toyota updates the Yaris
Good insurance is as vital as safe driving – click here to find out more
The GR Yaris is offered in five colours: Glacier White, Platinum Pearl White, Midnight Grey, Lunar Black and Fierce Red. Priced at R897 400 for the manual variant and R925 300 for the automatic, all models include a 90 000 km service plan (nine services) and a 3-year/100 000 km warranty.
Buyers gain access to Toyota’s MyToyota platform, which centralises vehicle services and information. New owners can opt into in-car WiFi (with 25GB complimentary data) and additional Connect services via a built-in device.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
proudly ALL THINGS MOTORING
