Toyota GR Yaris I facelift (2024 – 2025)
Reliability score : 8.8/10
The first-generation Toyota GR Yaris benefits from a major facelift (Phase 2) for 2024. Far from being a simple aesthetic update, this evolution corrects the main flaws of Phase 1 while pushing performance even further. The 1.6L 3-cylinder turbo engine (G16E-GTS) gains power (280 hp in Europe, 304 hp in Japan) and benefits from reinforced internal components (pistons, valves). The major innovation is the introduction of the 8-speed automatic gearbox (DAT - Direct Automatic Transmission) developed by Gazoo Racing, offering a formidable alternative to the iMT6 manual gearbox. The chassis gains in rigidity (+13% spot welds, +24% structural adhesive), and the interior ergonomics have been completely redesigned with a driver-oriented dashboard and a driving position lowered by 25 mm. It is a tr
✅ Strengths
- Performance and efficiency of the 4-wheel drive system (GR-Four)
- New 8-speed DAT automatic gearbox with stunning efficiency
- Correction of the driving position (finally lowered by 25 mm)
- New, more ergonomic and driver-oriented dashboard
- Exceptional overall mechanical reliability for an output of 175 hp/liter
- Body rigidity further improved
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Prohibitive ecological penalty in France (often higher than the price of the car)
- Sacrificed practical aspects (tiny 174L trunk, symbolic rear seats)
- High fuel consumption in sporty driving
- Limited rear and rear 3/4 visibility
- Interior plastics still basic despite the new design
🎯 Verdict
The facelifted Toyota GR Yaris (2024+) is an engineering masterpiece that improves upon an already exceptional recipe. By listening to feedback from customers and drivers (lowered driving position, redesigned dashboard, improved cooling), Toyota has created the ultimate compact sports car. The addition of the DAT automatic gearbox broadens its audience without sacrificing track efficiency. The reliability of the G16E-GTS block is remarkable, provided meticulous maintenance is observed. If you have the budget (and can handle the punitive taxation in some countries like France), it is a must-buy, a guaranteed future classic.
Common issues
Bugs logiciels du système d'infodivertissement et du tableau de bord numérique
Low
🔧 Dès la livraison
💶 Généralement pris en charge sous garantie
Signaler tout dysfonctionnement au concessionnaire pour une mise à jour logicielle.
Rappels constructeur pour vérifications ou ajustements mineurs
Low
🔧 Avant 20 000 km
💶 Pris en charge par le constructeur
Suivre les communications Toyota et effectuer les rappels rapidement.
Comportement imprécis ou à-coups de la nouvelle transmission automatique GR-DAT
Medium
🔧 Dès la livraison – 15 000 km
💶 Généralement pris en charge sous garantie (reprogrammation, ajustement)
Tester la boîte auto sur différents modes et signaler toute anomalie au concessionnaire.
Fuites mineures de fluides (différentiel, boîte de vitesses)
Medium
🔧 10 000 – 40 000 km
💶 300 – 800 € (souvent sous garantie)
Vérifier régulièrement les niveaux de fluides et signaler toute trace au sol.
Estimated maintenance costs
| Oil change |
200 – 350 £ |
| Complete brakes |
1 600 – 2 800 £ (performance discs and pads) |
| Estimated annual budget |
700 – 1 300 £ |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.