2026 Toyota Type 26 GR Yaris
By Lorenzo Bianchi March 13, 2026
Motorsport-derived upgrades shape the new 2026 Toyota Type 26 GR Yaris.
Revised steering, suspension tuning, and high-grip Bridgestone tires.
304 PS turbocharged engine paired with GR-FOUR all-wheel drive.
Toyota Evolves Its Rally-Bred Hot Hatch
The 2026 Toyota Type 26 GR Yaris continues a formula that has defined the model since its launch: take a compact hatchback and develop it with the mindset of a rally car.
GAZOO Racing describes the latest update as a “partially upgraded” GR Yaris, though the changes suggest a careful evolution shaped by real-world motorsport experience. Orders in Japan are already open, with sales scheduled to begin in April.
The philosophy behind the GR Yaris has always been unusual for a road car. It was engineered from the outset with rally competition in mind. The Type 26 continues that approach, incorporating lessons learned from circuit racing and rally stages.
Compact Proportions and Purposeful Design
The GR Yaris remains visually distinct from the standard Yaris. Its proportions are squat and purposeful. Agility is emphasized by the narrow hatchback profile, wide tracks, and short overhangs.
Wide wheels and performance tires support the car's low, compact appearance in publicity photos. The GR styling is subtle but deliberate: larger air intakes, muscular fender forms and functional aerodynamic detailing.
Nothing about the shape feels ornamental. The surfaces are simple, almost restrained. Yet the car still looks ready for a stage start rather than a commuter lane.
The overall package remains compact as well. The Type 26 measures roughly 3,995 mm in length with a 2,560 mm wheelbase, dimensions that underline the car’s small footprint and quick directional character.
Steering and Control Developed With Race Drivers
One of the most notable changes in the Type 26 centers on driver interaction.
Toyota developed a new GR steering wheel in collaboration with professional race drivers. The design focuses on improving grip and control during aggressive cornering, particularly in situations where drivers must maintain their hand position without regripping the wheel.
The steering wheel diameter has been reduced slightly, improving response and driver feedback. Switch placement has also been reconsidered to avoid accidental activation during performance driving.
Toyota also revised the electric power steering system itself. Engineers adjusted the assist characteristics to maintain consistent steering feel even when the car is subjected to high loads during circuit driving or rally-style cornering.
Turbocharged Power and GR-FOUR All Wheel Drive
At the center of the GR Yaris remains its distinctive engine: a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder paired with Toyota’s GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system.
The engine produces 304 PS at 6,500 rpm and 400 Nm of torque, figures that place the compact hatch firmly in serious performance territory.
Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or the GAZOO Racing Direct eight-speed automatic. Power is distributed through the GR-FOUR system, which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch and selectable drive modes.
Mechanical grip also plays a major role. Torsen limited-slip differentials are used in both the front and rear axles, which aid in the car's efficient power management during corner exits.
Suspension and Tires Adjusted for High-Grip Driving
New Bridgestone Potenza Race tires for higher-performance trim levels are introduced with the Type 26. These tires were created after rigorous field testing.
To maximize tire performance, Toyota also improved the suspension's damping capabilities.
Stability and control during spirited road driving as well as on the track are the objectives.
Position in the Modern Performance Hatch Market
The GR Yaris occupies a rare position in the modern automotive landscape. Few compact cars today are engineered so directly from motorsport principles.
It competes with performance-focused small vehicles like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R in the worldwide hot-hatch market, but its rally-inspired design and small size give it a distinct personality.
For Toyota’s GAZOO Racing division, the Type 26 is less a reinvention than a continuation. A reminder that small cars can still feel mechanical, responsive and deeply connected to motorsport.