The 2025 Toyota GR Yaris arrives as a remarkable evolution, raising the bar for hot hatches with a recalibrated 1.6L turbo engine delivering 296 horsepower and 296 lb-ft of torque. The biggest news is the introduction of an eight-speed automatic transmission, which surprisingly outperforms the manual version in acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds without sacrificing smoothness at low RPMs.
Driving performance reaches a level of perfection, especially in the GTS version, which features limited-slip differentials, forged BBS wheels, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The suspension has been stiffened but still maintains remarkable comfort for daily use, while the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system has been fine-tuned to offer an even more connected and customizable driving experience, paying homage to the brand’s rally heritage.
Despite the mechanical excellence and driving pleasure, the 2025 GR Yaris’s interior remains its most controversial aspect. The excessive use of hard plastics and a basic infotainment system contrast with the vehicle’s high price and the sophistication of its engineering. This material choice makes the cabin feel cheaper than it should, which is the main criticism of a car that, in all other respects, borders on perfection.
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Fabio Isidoro is the founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, where he has been writing about the automotive world since 2022. Passionate about cars and technology, he began his journey on the HospedandoSites portal and today dedicates himself to creating technical content and comprehensive analyses of national and international vehicles. 📩 Contact: contato@canalcarro.net.br