Toyota South Africa Motors has confirmed that an updated version of the Toyota GR Yaris will launch locally in March 2025. This highly anticipated update brings more power, increased torque, and an all-new 8-speed automatic transmission, making the GR Yaris even more exciting for South African car enthusiasts.
What’s New for the GR Yaris?
At the 2025 State of the Motor Industry (SOMI) address in Gauteng, Toyota revealed that the revised GR Yaris will deliver a more powerful driving experience. The current South African-spec GR Yaris, which was introduced in mid-2021, features a 6-speed manual gearbox, with a turbocharged 1.6-litre, 3-cylinder engine producing 198 kW and 360 Nm of torque. The new version promises to up the ante with 210 kW and 400 Nm, paired with a newly developed 8-speed automatic transmission.
Interestingly, while the updated Toyota GR Yaris in Japan will have a higher output of 224 kW, South African buyers will still experience an impressive performance boost compared to the current model. Toyota has yet to confirm if the manual transmission will remain available locally, but whispers suggest the updated model may be automatic-only.
Enhanced Transmission & Performance
The new 8-speed automatic transmission features close-ratio gears designed to make the most of the engine’s power band, promising an even smoother driving experience. Toyota claims the transmission offers “world-class” shifting speeds thanks to the use of heat-resistant friction material in the clutch and software improvements. While the exact 0-100 kph time is yet to be disclosed, it is expected to be quicker than the manual version’s impressive 5.5 seconds.
Design & Driving Experience Tweaks
Alongside the performance updates, the driving position has been lowered by 25 mm, enhancing the overall driving experience. The changes also extend to the car’s visibility, with the rearview mirror moved to the top of the windscreen and the central cluster’s upper edge lowered by 50 mm. To ensure a driver-focused experience, the control panel and display have been tilted 15 degrees towards the driver.
On the exterior, the updated Toyota GR Yaris boasts revised lower grille and front bumper designs for a more aggressive look. Aerodynamics are further improved with tweaks to the rear lower garnish, while the taillights have also been subtly revised. The high-mounted brake light has now been separated from the rear spoiler, contributing to the model’s modern, sleek appearance.
Updated Toyota GR Yaris Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L Turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine |
| Power Output | 210 kW (up from 198 kW) |
| Torque | 400 Nm (up from 360 Nm) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic torque-converter transmission |
| Transmission Type | Automatic (manual version likely discontinued) |
| Performance | 0-100 kph expected faster than 5.5 seconds (manual) |
| Driving Position | Lowered by 25 mm |
| Interior | Tilted control panel (15 degrees) |
| Exterior Updates | Revised front grille, bumper, and taillights |
| Aerodynamics | Improved rear lower garnish, separated brake light |
| Visibility Improvements | Rearview mirror relocated, central cluster lowered |
Toyota GR Yaris Price & Availability
Although local pricing for the updated Toyota GR Yaris has yet to be confirmed, it’s worth noting that the current GR Yaris 1.6T GR-Four Rally is priced at R848 600. Given the anticipated updates, the revised model could be priced higher, though exact figures will be revealed closer to launch.
It’s also important to consider that the GR Yaris has always been a limited-availability model in South Africa. In 2024, only 11 units were registered, and the updated version is expected to follow suit with a small allocation, making it a rare and exciting prospect for performance car lovers.
In conclusion, the updated Toyota GR Yaris promises to be an even more thrilling and refined offering for South African drivers when it hits our shores in March 2025. With more power, an improved transmission, and design tweaks, the GR Yaris remains one of the most exciting compact performance cars available.
Also read: Luxury Cars vs. Economy Cars: Which Is Worth Your Money?
