Toyota GR Yaris Receives Updates: Key Changes

JAKARTA – PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) has made several improvements to the New GR Yaris focusing on enhancing handling, stability, and driving comfort.

The updates are the result of evaluations from the car’s use in various motorsport events, including the World Rally Championship.

TAM Marketing Director Bansar Maduma said the Gazoo Racing (GR)-developed hot hatch received changes in the steering sector, Electric Power Steering (EPS) calibration, parking brake lever position, and added heated seats and steering wheel.

Specifically, one major change is a smaller steering wheel design to aid manoeuvring. Toyota also redesigned the grip for better comfort during extreme driving conditions.

Additionally, the parking brake lever is now positioned closer to the steering wheel at a steeper angle.

These modifications are claimed to make it easier for drivers to switch hands, especially during rally-style driving simulations.

Heated seats and steering wheel have been added to improve comfort in cold weather.

For the EPS, Toyota revised the software and components to expand the system’s detection capabilities.

Moreover, the GR Yaris now features newly developed tyres from intensive testing. Revisions to the tread pattern, internal structure, and rubber compound aim to enhance traction and stability on both roads and race tracks.

The damping characteristics of front and rear shock absorbers were also adjusted to optimise tyre performance.

TAM Marketing Director Hiroyuki Oide stated the improvements were made to preserve the GR Yaris’s signature fun-to-drive character.

“Feedback from drivers and the GR Yaris community has provided opportunities to enhance stability and handling for greater responsiveness to driver preferences,” Oide said.