- The Toyota GR Yaris Type 26 debuts a new steering wheel in Japan.
- High-performance trims gain gripper Bridgestone Potenza Race tires.
- There are no changes to the exterior design or the turbo 1.6-liter engine.
Toyota has pulled the wraps off the latest evolution of its rally-bred hatchback, the GR Yaris Type 26. Building on the motorsport expertise of Gazoo Racing, the model gains a revised steering wheel and a new ultra-sticky tire option.
Honing the Interface
The most notable change for the 2026 model year is the debut of a newly developed steering wheel that was previewed in the GR Yaris Morizo RR prototype earlier this year. This looks more Ferrari than Toyota, dropping the traditional emblem for the GR logo. The visual update is consistent with the recent rebranding of the Gazoo Racing sub-brand, but changes go much deeper.
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According to the company, professional drivers complained that the steering wheel of the outgoing GR Yaris required care not to touch the switches when performing 180-degree turns without re-gripping. In order to avoid that, designers reduced the diameter and optimised the grip shape. Furthermore, the new controls are illuminated and positioned independently for easier operation.
Besides rethinking the ergonomics, engineers have improved the settings for the electric power steering assist function, so it works better with high-grip circuit or rally tires. Finally, the steering torque detection range has been expanded thanks to optimized torsion-bar rigidity and modified control software.
New Rubber
The RZ High Performance trims with or without the Aero Performance Package gain a new set of Bridgestone Potenza Race tires wrapped around the 18-inch BBS forged aluminum wheels. The new tires were developed “through extensive field testing” with the goal of delivering high grip over extended periods of time.
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According to Toyota, “the tires’ revised tread pattern, internal structure, and rubber compound significantly improve control when driving a vehicle to its limit” in combination with optimized damping characteristics for the front and rear shock absorbers.
Another minor change for the 2026 model year is that the heated seats and steering wheel are now available with the vertical parking brake together with the Navigation or Comfort Packages.
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Mechanically, the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine is carried over, generating 300 hp (224 kW / 304 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. Buyers can still choose between the six-speed manual or the eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters.
As always, power is transmitted to all four wheels via the rally-bred GR-Four system with an electronic multi-plate clutch and front and rear torsen differentials.
The Toyota GR Yaris Type 26 is available to order in Japan. Pricing starts from ¥3,617,200 ($22,700) for the entry-level RC and tops out at ¥5,882,200 ($36,900) for the flagship RZ High Performance with the Aero Performance Package. In the near future, we expect the upgrades to reach other markets.
The Evolution Timeline
The GR Yaris debuted in 2020 but Toyota kept evolving it with input from its rallying division. First came the limited-production GRMN Yaris in 2022 with weight-saving measures and chassis upgrades. In 2024, the hot hatch received a facelift bringing fresh styling cues, an overhauled interior, a stiffer chassis, a more potent engine and an automatic option.
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In 2025, Toyota introduced the optional Aero Performance Package and two special editions named after WRC drivers Ogier and Rovanpera with custom drive modes.
The 2026 updates focused on the new steering wheel make the ultimate Yaris even more appealing to driving enthusiasts. For those who want the absolute best, Toyota will soon roll out the GR Yaris Morizo RR limited edition with carbon fiber bits and a special Morizo mode for the AWD system. It remains to be seen whether this will be the swan song of the model as it enters its twilight years.
Toyota
