Toyota has introduced the Type 26 GR Yaris featuring motorsports-inspired upgrades. It is available in Japan with prices starting at around 3.6 million yen, which is roughly $22,600.
There are five trims on offer, and the top-spec variant, called RZ “High Performance” + Aero performance package, equipped with all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic gearbox, retails for 5.9 million yen or about $37,000.
The top trim comes standard with Bridgestone Potenza Race tires. These have a new tread pattern, internal structure and new compound that is said to improve control both on and off the track.
The Type 26 GR Yaris comes with a new GR steering wheel that’s smaller in size compared to the standard Yaris and is more responsive. It also comes with backlit switches.
The electric power steering has been tweaked. Specifically, optimized torsion-bar rigidity within the torque sensor and modified control software have expanded the steering torque detection range, enabling optimal assistance even when cornering under extremely high loads.
Seat heaters and a steering wheel heater, which were previously unavailable when selecting a vertical parking brake together with either the “Navigation Package” or “Comfort Package”, are now available even when selecting a vertical parking brake together with either of the above packages.
The GR Yaris continues to be powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which makes 304 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system.
Source: Toyota