Toyota's GR Yaris Morizo RR: Is This the Hottest Hatchback Yet?
Akio Toyoda, more than just the chairman of Toyota, wields significant influence over the Gazoo Racing (GR) sub-brand, recently spun off. His passion for racing and winning has driven the transformation of Toyota's image, moving away from mundane commuter cars and into the realm of genuine performance vehicles.
Now, Toyota has turned up the heat with the unveiling of the limited-edition GR Yaris Morizo RR at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
Named after Toyoda's racing alias, Morizo, this model joins the ranks of the two-seat GR Corolla Morizo edition and the Lexus LBX Morizo RR.
While still technically a prototype, Toyota plans to produce only 200 examples of the GR Yaris Morizo RR edition. Half will be available in Japan through a lottery system, and the other half will be offered in Europe.
Developed based on the 2025 Nürburgring 24 Hour race, where two hot hatches were entered, driven by a team of four drivers, including Toyoda, the new GR Yaris special edition stands out with its unique carbon fiber rear wing and bonnet, as well as a revised front splitter and side skirts.
Toyota claims these aerodynamic enhancements are combined with a revised suspension setup, optimized for uneven roads like those found at the Nürburgring Nordschleife course. The electric power steering system has also been adjusted to accommodate these changes.
Following the GR Corolla, the GR Yaris Morizo RR features a tweaked all-wheel-drive system with its exclusive 'Morizo' settings.
All models are finished in a unique Gravel Khaki paint color, complemented by Piano Black highlights and matte bronze wheels, which sit in front of yellow brake calipers.
Inside, the steering wheel is smaller, trimmed in suede with yellow contrast stitching, and features more switches, inspired by the GR Yaris Rally2 car. Additional features include exclusive digital instrument cluster graphics, revised seats, and a unique numbered plaque.
Toyota hasn't disclosed any performance upgrades beyond the standard 221kW and 400Nm outputs from its turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder petrol engine.
To broaden its appeal, the Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR is exclusively equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with no option for a six-speed manual.
While the GR Yaris Morizo RR won't be available in Australia, Toyota's local division recently introduced the Yaris GTS Aero Performance Package, adding $4,500 to the price. These upgrades include a GR Corolla-style cooling duct and vents on the bonnet, a new front lip and an adjustable rear spoiler, altered front wheel arches with new vents, two ducts on the rear bumper, and a new underfloor.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Do you think the limited availability and automatic transmission will impact the appeal of the GR Yaris Morizo RR? Would you prefer a manual transmission? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
