The world is one step closer to getting an automatic Toyota GR Yaris, as one prototype fielded by Rookie Racing clinched second place in a Super Taikyu race that took place last weekend.
The endurance race โ 5 hours around Motegi circuit, Japan โ saw the GR Yaris that's trialling a new automatic gearbox (dubbed the Direct Automatic Transmission) come home ahead of the carbon-neutral fuelled Toyota GR86, but finishing behind the Nissan Z Concept in the ST-Q (experimental) class.
Piloted by Toyota Motor Corporation's chairman, Akio Toyoda (as Morizo), Yasuhiro Ogura (of Ogura clutch fame) and professional racer Masahiro Sasaki, the car finished 130 laps in 5 hours 2 minutes and 40 seconds; not too far off the winning Z's 138 laps and 5 hours 2 minutes and 16 seconds elapsed.
According to prior reports, the all-new 8-speed automatic is a regular torque converter gearbox, and earlier development prototypes show a set of paddle shifters as well. Alongside this on-track test, the automatic GR Yaris is also busy off-road, participating in rallies worldwide.
Note too that the distinction here is that this auto GR Yaris runs off the G16E-GTS 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder; output isn't disclosed just yet but in its stock, 262 PS / 380 Nm form it's already quite the powerhouse.
This full-fat GR Yaris might still be a while away from production, but for those who don't mind just having the looks (albeit with a more docile, 1.5-litre NA engine) can always opt for the GR Yaris RS โ this one has a CVT.
Also read: This is the cheaper Toyota GR Yaris that recond dealers will import to Malaysia next year
Quality Cars Guaranteed
Fixed Price No Hidden Fees
5-Day Money-back Guarantee
1-Year Warranty
{{variantName}}
{{carMileage}} km
{{registrationYear}} year
{{storeCity}}