SHERIDAN, WYOMING – July 28, 2025 – Toyota’s relentless motorsport spirit is taking the GR Yaris to new heights – not just on racetracks, but in how it shapes the future of street-ready performance cars. This weekend, Toyota is returning to the ENEOS Super Taikyu Series at Autopolis, Japan, with the GR Yaris DAT – fresh from its demanding run at the 24 Hours Nürburgring – and it’s not just about the race. It’s about refining what drivers like us might experience in future Toyota performance models.
Track-tested tech made personal
What makes this update especially exciting is Toyota’s choice to race the #32 GR Yaris DAT using the exact Nürburgring specifications from June’s endurance event in Germany. That’s right—no detuning, no tweaks for local conditions. Why? Because Toyota is determined to see how their Nürburgring-proven setup handles Japan’s intense summer heat and humidity. And that knowledge doesn’t just stay on the track.
Here’s why that matters:
- The same lessons learned from these races directly feed into what goes into future production models.
- Suspension, engine tuning, and heat management improvements are often adopted in performance trims sold to consumers.
- More feedback = better reliability, sharper handling, and more confidence behind the wheel.
In short: Toyota isn’t just racing for trophies. They’re racing to build you a better ride.
Going green, even on the gas
While the GR Yaris handles the raw performance side, Toyota’s #28 GR86 joins the race with a completely different mission — proving that even traditional combustion engines can adapt to a greener world.
The GR86 will once again run on E20 fuel — a low-carbon gasoline blend made with 20% bioethanol. This co-challenge with ENEOS isn’t a PR stunt. The team already clocked 523 laps using E20 during the Fuji 24 Hours in May with zero fuel-related issues, showing that performance and sustainability can actually coexist.
Toyota’s big takeaway?
- Racing helps validate alternative fuels under real pressure.
- Feedback from these endurance tests supports broader adoption of carbon-reducing technologies.
- It’s not just about going electric — there’s more than one road to carbon neutrality.
Behind the scenes: What’s next for the GR Yaris line
For diehard fans, the GR Yaris M Concept is still deep in development after debuting at Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this year. Its bold midship layout (with the engine placed centrally for better balance) brings incredible potential — but also unique challenges in braking, cornering, and stability.
Toyota made the tough but smart decision not to race the M Concept at Autopolis, focusing instead on refinement. Translation? They’re not rushing half-baked ideas into the spotlight. They’re building something worthy of the GR badge — and of drivers’ trust.
Mini Comparison: Nürburgring vs. Autopolis GR Yaris
- #32 GR Yaris at Nürburgring:
- First outing in 6 years
- Custom setup for extreme endurance
- Completed more laps than expected with confidence
- #32 GR Yaris at Autopolis:
- Same Nürburgring spec
- Pushed through high heat and humidity
- Focus on suspension & engine optimization for Japan-specific conditions
FAQ: What does this mean for regular Toyota buyers?
Q: Is this GR Yaris DAT going to be available at dealerships?
A: Not exactly. But the tech and tuning insights gained from races like these often shape the next-gen GR models or even trickle down into regular Toyota vehicles.
Q: What’s the big deal with low-carbon gasoline?
A: It’s a cleaner-burning fuel that blends ethanol with traditional gas, helping reduce CO₂ emissions without needing new engines — a practical step for today’s cars.
Q: Should I wait for the M Concept before buying a GR Yaris?
A: The M Concept is still in development. If you want cutting-edge performance now, the current GR Yaris remains a standout — and is already benefiting from this racing-driven evolution.
Why this matters more than ever
For Toyota, this isn’t just about race days and podiums. It’s about turning motorsport into momentum for real-world driving. Every race is a lab. Every lap is a lesson. And for those of us dreaming of a more thrilling — and sustainable — daily drive, that’s very good news.
Want to see what the future of fast and fun feels like? Learn more at www.toyota.com