Last year at Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota didn't disappoint with a suitably wacky mid-engined GR Yaris concept. For 2026, things are rather more restrained. But the good news is the GR Yaris Morizo RR on display is destined for production.

Limited to just 200 units globally - 100 for Japan, 100 for selected European markets - the Morizo RR takes its name from Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda's racing alias and Rookie Racing, the team that fielded a GR Yaris at the 2025 Nürburgring 24 Hours. Toyoda himself drove the #109 car for 15 laps, later crediting the eight-speed automatic transmission with enabling him to complete his stint. That experience directly informs the Morizo RR, which will only be offered with two pedals in the footwell.

The 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine remains untouched at 276bhp and 288lb-ft of torque, but a series of mechanical tweaks look to further sharpen the driving experience of the rally-bred hatch. 

First up is a subtle adjustment to the four-wheel drive system, with a new Morizo mode replacing the previous Gravel setting. Where Gravel split torque 53:47 front to rear, the Morizo runs a 50:50 distribution - matching the GR Corolla's setup and Toyoda's preferred configuration from the N24 car.

The suspension has also been specifically tuned to work with increased downforce from a new carbon-fibre rear wing developed through Nürburgring competition. Toyota claims the damping allows tyres to maintain firm contact with highly uneven surfaces - a trait that should prove just as relevant for UK roads as the Nordschleife. Gazoo Racing’s engineers have also fettled the electric power steering to match the new suspension.

Visually, the Morizo RR incorporates the Aero Performance kit's front splitter and side skirts, but adds a carbon-fibre bonnet and that competition-derived rear wing in full carbon fibre. The launch colour is Gravel Khaki - Toyoda's personal choice - paired with matte bronze wheels and yellow brake calipers, the latter being his signature colour.

Inside, the Morizo RR pivots away from the N24 and a Rally2 influence takes centre stage, most notably in the steering wheel switchgear layout, which is designed for improved usability during spirited driving. The wheel itself is slightly smaller in diameter, trimmed in suede with yellow stitching that extends to the seats, gear selector, and parking brake. Modified paddle shifters complete the driver-focused changes. Each car also receives a serial number plate with Morizo RR logo.

The GR Yaris Morizo RR is scheduled to reach European markets in spring 2026. UK allocation seems likely given Britain's appetite for GR special editions, though official confirmation and pricing remain pending. Expect the premium over the £48,995 Aero Performance to be substantial - possibly approaching the £65,000-70,000 an Ogier or Rovanperä Edition now commands.