Rally-inspired Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance marks UK return for popular hot hatch
Toyota’s hot hatch is returning to the UK, and it has ditched its automatic gearbox...
On sale March 2026 Price from £48,995
After being sold out due to "exceptional demand", the Toyota GR Yaris has been reintroduced with the arrival of the GR Yaris Aero Performance variant – and it’ll be available exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Indeed, the new GR Yaris Aero Performance will be the only variant of the GR Yaris available to buy in the UK, after order books for the regular model were closed a few months ago due to “exceptional demand”.
As its name suggests, the new variant comes fitted with an aerodynamic-focused pack, benefitting from a number of elements borrowed from Toyota Gazoo Racing’s experience in rallying. According to Toyota, the new GR Yaris Aero Performance received “first-hand contributions” from professional drivers to emphasise its competition-inspired driving experience.
Those elements include front and rear spoilers which are said to improve balance, handling and braking stability. At the rear, the spoiler can be adjusted by the driver to suit different situations, whether you’re on a high-speed track or out for a more leisurely drive.
On the bonnet, there’s a new large vent designed to improve engine cooling during high-speed driving, as well as a new flat floor which allows air to flow through more efficiently.
Additionally, ducts have been added to the front wings and rear bumper to improve airflow to the brakes and improve stability under the car.
Most notably, the GR Yaris Aero Performance ditches the eight-speed automatic gearbox available on regular versions of the car and exclusively comes with a six-speed manual gearbox. A rally-style vertical handbrake also features.
The Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance is due to arrive in March next year. It’ll be available in “strictly limited” numbers, which means prospective buyers shouldn’t waste any time getting their orders in.
Prices will start at £48,995, which makes it nearly £3000 more expensive than the regular model. A Honda Civic Type R will still set you back significantly more, but you can get a Volkswagen Golf GTI or Golf R for cheaper.
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