Toyota Gazoo Racing has confirmed the launch of one of the most anticipated and exclusive versions of its acclaimed hot hatch, the GR Yaris Morizo RR. Apresentado officially during Salão of Automóvel of Tóquio, the model is a direct homage to the president of Toyota, Production will be strictly limited to 200 units worldwide, cementing its status as an instant collector’s item.
Developed based on the team’s extensive experience in the 24 Horas Nürburgring, the Morizo RR incorporates a series of mechanical and aerodynamic improvements that significantly differentiate it from the standard version. Akio Toyoda himself was directly involved in the vehicle calibration process at the legendary German circuit, ensuring that every adjustment reflected the Gazoo Racing division’s philosophy of pure performance.
With half of production destined for the Japanese market and the other half for selected markets in Europa, exclusivity is the central pillar of the project. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in spring 2026, and high demand already indicates that the procurement process will be extremely competitive, especially in the Japão, where buyers will be selected through a lottery system.
Inspiration coming from endurance tracks
The development of the GR Yaris Morizo RR is a testament to the Toyota philosophy of transferring technology and knowledge from the track to the road car. The experience accumulated by the Gazoo Racing team in the iconic 24 Horas Nürburgring race was the main source of inspiration for the modifications implemented in the vehicle. Akio “Morizo” Essa practical approach allowed the creation of a car with suspension, aerodynamics and transmission adjustments that aim to extract maximum performance in extreme driving conditions. The objective was not just to increase power, but to improve the precision, response and stability of the package, making circuit driving a more intuitive and rewarding experience. Cada detail, from the calibration of the electric power steering to the behavior of the shock absorbers under heavy compression, has been meticulously tuned to replicate the feel of a true competition car while maintaining the reliability expected of an Toyota product.
Mechanical details and improved performance
Under the hood, the GR Embora the power and torque are similar to those of the updated version of the standard GR Yaris, with around 280 horsepower and 390 Nm, the big difference is in the way this force is delivered and managed. The main mechanical novelty is the exclusive adoption of an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission. Esta gearbox has been specifically calibrated for extremely fast and intelligent gear changes, optimized for track use.
The decision to offer only the automatic transmission was strategic, as its predictive software and the speed of shifting, whether in automatic or manual mode through the paddles on the steering wheel, allow the engine to always remain in the ideal speed range. Isso translates into higher performance than would be possible with a manual transmission in a racing environment. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is estimated at around 5.2 seconds, with the top speed electronically limited to 230 km/h. The recalibration of the suspension, with specific shock absorbers, and the electric steering complements the package, ensuring that the car responds more directly and precisely to the driver’s commands.
Aerodynamic modifications and weight reduction
To guarantee stability at high speeds and neutral behavior in curves, the GR Yaris Morizo RR received an aerodynamic package extensively tested at the Nürburgring. The most prominent element is the large rear spoiler, made from carbon fiber, which significantly increases downforce on the rear axle.
Weight reduction was another priority in the project. The hood is also made of carbon fiber, helping to reduce the total mass and optimize the vehicle’s weight distribution.
At the front, a new spoiler has been designed to direct airflow more efficiently, while specific side skirts help to reduce turbulence around the wheels.
These components are not just aesthetic; they work together to create a car that is more balanced and predictable at its limit, allowing the driver to explore the full potential of the chassis and drivetrain.
Exterior design with unique identity
Visually, the GR Yaris Morizo RR is distinguished by a series of exclusive details that reinforce its sporty character and exclusivity. The body can be ordered in the special color Gravel Khaki, a unique shade for this version, which accentuates its aggressive lines.
The forged light alloy wheels receive an exclusive Matte Bronze finish, creating a striking contrast with the bodywork. The front grille adopts a glossy black finish, giving the front end a more imposing appearance.
Finishing touches include a decorative badge on the rear and the signature “Morizo” discreetly applied to the windshield, a personal seal of approval from Akio Toyoda that celebrates the passion behind the project.
All-wheel drive system with exclusive mode
The sophisticated GR-FOUR all-wheel drive system, one of the highlights of the Yaris, has been improved for the Morizo RR edition. A new driving mode, called “Morizo RR”, has been added, replacing the “Gravel” mode of conventional versions. Quando activated, this mode fixes the torque distribution between the front and rear axles in a 50:50 ratio, providing maximum traction and more neutral behavior in high-speed curves, ideal for circuit driving.
Interior focused on the riding experience
The cabin of the Morizo RR was designed to put the driver first. The steering wheel, with a reduced diameter and covered in high-grip material, offers a firmer, sportier grip. The gear shift paddles, located behind the steering wheel, have been redesigned to facilitate quick and intuitive engagement during intense driving.
The sports seats have different perforations and stitching, offering excellent lateral support without sacrificing comfort. A numbered plaque on the instrument panel identifies the specific unit within the 200 series, reinforcing the collectible status. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel also received an additional menu, developed especially for this edition, with information relevant to track driving.
Availability and exclusivity in the global market
Production from GR Yaris Morizo RR will be divided equally between Japão and Europa, with 100 units allocated to each region. In the Japanese market, demand is so high that Toyota implemented a lottery system to select customers who will have the opportunity to purchase the vehicle. Esse method seeks to ensure fair distribution in the face of limited supply. Na Europa, the model will be made available in selected markets, with the sales process and specific dates being announced later by the brand’s local subsidiaries.
The combination of extreme performance, development personally endorsed by the company president, and an extremely limited production run elevates the Morizo RR’s appeal among collectors and motorsports enthusiasts. The model not only represents the pinnacle of the GR
