The Toyota GR Yaris has always been a special machine. When it debuted, it shocked the motoring world by offering a true rally-inspired, all-wheel-drive hot hatch in an era dominated by downsizing, hybrids, and safe corporate decisions. Now, for 2025, Toyota has taken everything that enthusiasts loved about the original and refined it for an even sharper, more thrilling driving experience.
From the track to the twisty roads of Australia’s hinterlands, the new GR Yaris promises more power, better handling, improved comfort, and a host of subtle tweaks that make it not just a raw performance tool but also a livable daily driver.
A Rally-Inspired Beginning
The GR Yaris was never just a marketing exercise. Born out of Toyota’s participation in the World Rally Championship (WRC), it was developed in close collaboration with Toyota Gazoo Racing to meet homologation requirements. This meant the car wasn’t just inspired by rallying—it was practically bred for it.
The 2025 model continues this legacy, retaining the compact three-door hatchback form and aggressive stance, but with notable updates to aerodynamics, chassis tuning, and drivetrain responsiveness. The goal: keep the rally soul alive while smoothing out some of the everyday compromises of the earlier model.
Exterior Design – Subtle Refinement with Purpose
At first glance, you might mistake the 2025 GR Yaris for its predecessor, but look closer and you’ll spot the aerodynamic refinements. The front bumper has been reshaped for improved airflow, the grille mesh now offers better cooling efficiency, and there’s a slightly more pronounced front splitter to enhance downforce.
The LED headlights receive a sharper signature, and new wheel designs—lightweight forged alloys—help reduce unsprung mass. At the rear, the tail lamps have been subtly revised, and a larger, more functional roof spoiler aids stability at high speeds.
Colours remain bold, with the returning Emotional Red II, Frosted White Pearl, and the fan-favourite Liquid Silver joined by a new Rallye Blue exclusive to 2025.
Engine & Performance – More Power, Same Character
The beating heart of the GR Yaris remains the turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder powerhouse—one of the most potent engines of its kind in the world. For 2025, Toyota engineers have squeezed out extra performance through revised turbo geometry, enhanced fuel mapping, and reduced internal friction.
- Power Output: 225kW (up from 200kW)
- Torque: 400Nm (up from 370Nm)
- 0-100 km/h: Around 5.0 seconds flat
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 230 km/h
Despite the extra muscle, drivability has improved. Turbo lag is minimal, and throttle response feels razor-sharp. The GR-Four all-wheel-drive system remains a highlight, capable of sending power variably between the axles to suit conditions. Modes include Normal, Sport (more rear bias), and Track (even 50/50 split).
Transmission Choices – Manual Purists Rejoice
In an age where manual gearboxes are disappearing, Toyota continues to cater to enthusiasts. The standard six-speed manual is revised with a shorter throw and crisper engagement. For those preferring two-pedal convenience, there’s now an optional eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters, tuned for rapid shifts without dulling the driving experience.
Interestingly, Toyota says the auto version is fractionally quicker in acceleration, but most purists will still gravitate toward the manual for the immersive feel.
Handling – Still the Benchmark
Few cars in this segment can match the GR Yaris for sheer agility. The 2025 model benefits from retuned suspension geometry, stiffer bushings, and an increase in track width by a few millimetres for improved stability. The adaptive dampers now offer a broader range, making the car more compliant in daily driving without losing composure during spirited runs.
The steering remains quick and communicative, giving drivers confidence on tight switchbacks and high-speed sweepers alike. Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres come standard, offering excellent grip in both dry and wet conditions.
Braking Power – Confidence at Any Speed
Toyota has fitted larger front brake discs (now 365mm) with upgraded four-piston calipers for improved heat resistance. The brake pedal feel is firm and progressive, inspiring confidence whether you’re slowing from highway speeds or scrubbing off speed before a hairpin.
Interior – Focused but More Comfortable
One of the criticisms of the early GR Yaris was its interior practicality and comfort. For 2025, Toyota has addressed this with more supportive yet cushioned seats, improved sound insulation, and higher-quality materials across the cabin.
Key updates include:
- A larger 10.5-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Revised digital driver display with performance-focused readouts
- New leather-Alcantara seat upholstery with red contrast stitching
- Adjustable centre armrest and better cup holder placement
While rear seating remains tight (this is still a compact three-door), boot space is adequate for a weekend getaway.
Technology & Features
The GR Yaris might be performance-focused, but it doesn’t skimp on tech:
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Head-up display
- Enhanced voice command system
- 8-speaker JBL premium audio
- Multiple USB-C ports
Safety tech is also generous, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert now standard.
Everyday Usability
Despite its rally DNA, the GR Yaris is surprisingly livable. In Normal drive mode, the suspension softens enough for urban commutes, and the cabin is quieter thanks to improved insulation. Fuel economy isn’t its strongest suit—expect around 8.0L/100km in mixed driving—but for a car this capable, that’s a fair trade-off.
Fuel Type & Efficiency
Running on 98 RON premium unleaded, the GR Yaris achieves respectable efficiency for its performance class. The lightweight design (under 1,300kg) helps, as does the efficient turbocharged engine when driven sensibly.
Pricing & Value in Australia
Australian pricing for the 2025 GR Yaris starts around $60,000 plus on-road costs for the manual variant, with the automatic carrying a small premium. Considering its bespoke engineering, rally pedigree, and limited production numbers, it remains one of the best value performance cars on the market.
Rivals & Comparisons
Competitors include:
- Hyundai i20 N – Cheaper, but less powerful and FWD only
- Volkswagen Golf R – More practical, but larger and pricier
- Honda Civic Type R – Brilliant handling, but lacks AWD
The GR Yaris stands out for its WRC heritage, AWD grip, and compact footprint—ideal for Australian backroads.
Verdict – The Pocket Rocket Lives On
The 2025 Toyota GR Yaris isn’t just a facelift; it’s an evolution of one of the most exciting small cars in recent memory. With more power, improved refinement, and retained rally character, it’s a rare gem in a market leaning toward crossovers and EVs.
For drivers who want an authentic, analogue-feeling hot hatch with modern tech, the GR Yaris remains unbeatable.
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