Get ready, folks, because the 2025 Toyota GR Yaris has arrived to shake up the “hot hatch” segment like lightning on a sunny day. I was personally already impressed with the previous version, but what Toyota has done now is jaw-dropping, raising a car that was already a legend to a level that, frankly, very few can reach. It’s a true reminder that passion and performance don’t have to come in huge packages.
This isn’t just a car, it’s a manifesto of automotive engineering, a rising future classic. If you’re like me, an enthusiast who values the essence of driving and adrenaline, then you need to understand every detail of this machine. Let’s dive into what makes the new GR Yaris undoubtedly the best hot hatch on the market.
What Makes the 2025 GR Yaris So Special?
The new GR Yaris version isn’t just a simple update; it’s a calculated evolution to maximize every drop of performance. Toyota took what was already acclaimed and brutally improved it. The heart of this beast, the 1.6L three-cylinder turbo engine, has been recalibrated to deliver an impressive 296 horsepower (221 kW) and 296 lb-ft of torque (401 Nm), a significant increase over the previous model. That’s the exact same specification as its bigger sibling, the GR Corolla, and believe me, you feel every one of those horses.
But the big news, my friends, is the inclusion of an eight-speed automatic transmission, offered alongside the beloved six-speed manual. If you’re a purist like me, you might wrinkle your nose at an automatic in a car like this, but the truth is it’s surprisingly fast, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds—quicker than the manual (5.0 seconds). Plus, the smoothness at low speeds is something you wouldn’t expect from a car so focused on performance. Truly, the engineering behind this is next level. In comparison, some more luxurious models like the 2026 Corvette ZR1X with its 1,250 hp hybrid setup show that the future of performance also embraces new technologies, but the GR Yaris keeps combustion alive and pulsing.
How Did Toyota Optimize Driveability to Perfection?
The 2025 GR Yaris’s driveability is, frankly, phenomenal. The GTS model, previously known as Rallye, comes standard with two limited-slip differentials (LSDs), which is a real edge over the competition. Add to that 18-inch forged BBS wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and you have a machine that sticks to the tarmac like gum on a new shoe. The suspension has been revised and is stiffer, and even without adjustable dampers, the tuning is so precise it’s comfortable enough for daily use. It’s an engineering feat few can achieve.
The GR-Four all-wheel-drive system also received tweaks, with the “Track” mode now being variable (60:40 to 30:70), and the “Sport” mode replaced by “Gravel” (53:47). I must admit, the reviewer missed the old fixed 30:70 setup that changed the car’s feel. For those who enjoy a touch of nostalgia and raw performance, the intercooler spray system, which recalls the classic Mitsubishi Evos, is a fantastic nod to rally classics. This attention to detail is what sets the GR Yaris apart from other less inspired hot hatches. Speaking of cars that revive passion, the electric Peugeot E-208 GTI also tries to bring back a legend, but with a completely different approach.
Does the GR Yaris Driving Experience Truly Captivate?
If you’re after excitement, the 2025 GR Yaris delivers abundantly. The small three-cylinder engine has a sound and character that outperform any comparable four-cylinder on the market. It “sounds more thrilling than the Supra’s inline-six,” a bold statement I wholeheartedly support. Under full throttle, it produces a visceral “growl,” and when decelerating, the “charming turbo whistle” transports you to an authentic rally car. It’s a mechanical symphony that gives me goosebumps. You can read more about the pursuit of sustainable performance in the Toyota GR LH2 hydrogen car, which demonstrates Toyota’s versatility in chasing performance with different fuels.
The acceleration is impressively strong, leaving any front-wheel-drive rival in the dust at the start. The automatic transmission, despite my initial reservations, is “very good,” with quick paddle shifts and low-speed smoothness that rivals dual-clutch transmissions from other brands. But if you’re a purist, the manual transmission, “short and surprisingly heavy,” is a joy to use, complete with automatic rev-matching. The steering is excellent, nicely weighted, and contributes to an exhilarating driving experience. You don’t need to drive it on the edge to have fun; the GR Yaris offers much more “theater” than other sports cars. The rally-inspired handbrake, which disconnects the rear axle to “smoke donuts with all-wheel drive,” is the cherry on top for fun. Pure craziness, in the best way!
Does the 2025 GR Yaris Interior Match Its Performance?
This is where things get a bit… complicated. The dashboard was completely redesigned, and the driver-focused layout is evident, with the curved center stack and the repositioned rearview mirror for better visibility. The old analog cluster has been replaced by a 12.3-inch digital screen with motorsport-inspired displays, which I admit are impressive. But, damn, Toyota dropped the ball on materials.
The biggest criticism is the heavy use of “hard black plastic” throughout the dashboard, pillars, transmission tunnel, and door panels. It makes the cabin feel “cheap,” more fitting for a car priced around, I don’t know, $20,000 or $25,000, not a vehicle that costs much more. There’s a lack of soft-touch surfaces, which is a cardinal sin in a car positioning itself as a “future classic.” The seats were lowered by 1 inch (25 mm), but the seating position is still “a bit too high,” and although they’re good, they aren’t outstanding, with competitors offering more comfort and support. The 8.0-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto runs “an extremely boring software,” devoid of interesting features. It’s a stark contrast between cutting-edge engineering and an interior that looks like it was done on a budget. Other vehicles, like the 2025 Alfa Romeo Junior, also face scrutiny regarding cost-effectiveness and interior details.
Strengths vs. Weaknesses: A Quick Assessment
- Engine: Exciting with captivating sound.
- Handling: Incredible, with absurd levels of grip.
- Automatic Transmission: Competent and smooth—a pleasant surprise.
- Fun: Enjoyable to drive at all speeds, not just on the edge.
- Comfort: Comfortable enough for daily use.
- Looks: “Businesslike” appearance—subtle but aggressive.
- Impracticality: It’s a very small car; don’t expect to carry family and luggage.
- Dampers: Non-adjustable. While well-tuned, adaptive would be ideal.
- Price: High for the car’s size.
- Interior: Excessive use of hard plastics, generic infotainment software.
- Driving Modes: Custom mode offers few personalization options.
- AWD: Some prefer the old fixed 30:70 AWD setup.
Quick Comparison with Direct Competitors:
- 2025 Toyota GR Yaris: Rally engineering excellence, visceral engine, fast automatic option, controversial interior.
- Honda Civic Type R: More practical, more communicative steering, but less “theater” at low speeds.
- VW Golf GTI: An icon, but the GR Yaris raises the bar for pure hot hatches. The VW Golf GTI 50 Years broke a Nürburgring record, showcasing the brand’s power, but the GR Yaris plays in another league of exclusivity and rally focus.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the 2025 Toyota GR Yaris
What is the main new feature of the 2025 GR Yaris?The main new feature is the introduction of an eight-speed automatic transmission, alongside an improved 1.6L turbo engine now delivering 296 hp (221 kW).
Is the 2025 GR Yaris good for daily use?Yes, despite its performance focus, the well-tuned suspension and automatic transmission option make it comfortable enough for everyday driving.
What is the approximate price of the 2025 GR Yaris?The starting price for the GT version is around $39,500 or €36,000, and about $42,900 or €39,000 for the GTS version, depending on region and local taxes.
Why is the interior considered a weak point?The interior is criticized for the heavy use of hard plastics and lack of soft-touch surfaces, which doesn’t match the pricing or positioning of a premium sports car.
Is the three-cylinder engine really powerful?Absolutely! The 1.6L three-cylinder turbo engine is incredibly powerful and delivers sound and character that outshine many four- and even six-cylinder engines on the market.
Look, the 2025 Toyota GR Yaris is a car that makes you smile. It’s living proof that Toyota knows how to make exciting cars, even as the market shifts toward electric vehicles. It’s a refined hot hatch, incredibly fast on twisty roads, and comfortable enough for daily driving. The only drawback, in my humble opinion, is that interior, which could be a bit more premium. If Toyota had put more care into the cabin materials, this car would be virtually flawless. But even with that detail, the tailored engineering and complex systems justify every dollar or euro spent. It’s a car for people who know cars, for those who value the driving experience above all else. And wow, what an experience!
And you, what do you think of the new 2025 Toyota GR Yaris? Leave your comment below and let’s chat about this machine!
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