Ditching a clutch pedal for flappy paddles, the all-new Toyota GR Yaris is nearly in South Africa, and it promises to turn things up to 11! Here is pricing on the potent all-wheel drive hot hatch.
Image: Toyota
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Readying for South African arrival, the evolved GR Yaris has some big shoes to fill. It just went on sale in Japan, and it’s officially on Toyota South Africa’s radar, with local launch timing expected to be confirmed in the coming months. Fortunately, we’ve got a sneak peek at how much the hot hatch will cost, but before that, here is what makes the refreshed GR Yaris new and improved. Toyota claim the model benefits from real-world lessons learned in motorsport, including rally stages and circuit racing. It features enhanced mechanical upgrades, including Toyota’s Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (an 8-speed torque-converter auto), a first for the model. But purists can rest easy — a 6-speed manual will remain.
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Under the bonnet is the familiar 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine (G16E-GTS), now tuned for 224 kW and 400 N.m, sent to all four wheels via the GR-Four system. This is a serious bump in power and torque from the outgoing model, 26 kW and 40 N.m to be specific. Alongside the mechanical tweaks, Toyota has reworked the suspension and steering feel with input from professional racers. One highlight for track-day warriors is the new Aero Performance Package, due later in 2025. It includes a ducted aluminium bonnet, fender vents, a variable rear wing, and underbody aerodynamic aids. The updated MT model retains the 1 280 kg dry weight but the new automatic is 20 kg heavier overall.
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Inside, Toyota has made ergonomic updates too, such as a wider footrest for automatic variants and the option of a vertical rally-style handbrake.
2025 Toyota GR Yaris Pricing

GR Yaris Rally MT – R897 400
GR Yaris Rally AT – R925 300

Official specification is expected closer to its local launch – stay tuned to CAR Magazine’s Kyle Kock during his 2025 GR Cup campaign, which will see the media contingent shift from the previous generation GR Yaris in favour of the 8-speed automatic.
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