Following the debut of the updated 2026 Toyota GR Yaris in Japan, the refreshed hyper hatch has now reached Malaysian shores with various updates.
There will once again be two variants, the six-speed manual priced at RM 315,600 and the eight-speed automatic from RM 325,600. Both variants include a five-year, unlimited mileage warranty from UMW Toyota.
As seen in the Japanese update, the new GR Yaris keeps the major changes in the cabin that are focused on elevating the driving experience. Chief among that list is the new steering wheel design that improves grip and fit for the palms.
The steering wheel has been remodelled based on real-world, on-track analysis and feedback with the aim of improving control and maintaining focus on the road.
TGR engineers conducted evaluations with professional race drivers to optimise steering wheel design and layout, arriving at the conclusion of a reduced diametre by 5 mm, to 360 mm. This allows for quicker steering inputs. Meanwhile, the grip area has been enlarged and thumb rests removed to achieve superior response in motorsports conditions.
On top of that, the switch layout was also drastically altered based on drivers often turning the wheel up to 180 degrees without changing hand positions, necessitating the repositioning away from the spokes to avoid accidental presses.
Part of the updates included new calibrations for the electric power steering as well, geared at reliable operation even when fitted with high-grip rubbers or heavy loads and braking.
Lastly, the suspension dampers were also retuned though the mechanical components remain unchanged.
Another unchanged bit is the powertrain. The G16E-GTS 1.6-litre turbocharged inline-three cylinder still makes 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque, sent to all four wheels via the unchanged GR-Four all-wheel drive system with Torsen LSD units at both ends.
Splurge on the automatic and it will include launch control and an ATF cooler though the century sprint times are identical for both at 5.2 seconds, as is the limited top speed of 230 kph.
The standard wheel setup starts with 18-inch forged aluminium BBS pieces wrapped in 225/40R18 Bridgestone Potenza Race tyres. Completing the exterior features are a carbon-fibre-reinforced-plastic roof and dual exhausts.
You can have your 2026 GR Yaris in one of four shades, Platinum White Pearl Mica, Emotional Red, Precious Metal and Precious Black.
