By Steve Laser
Toyota Gazoo Racing introduced the new GR Yaris Morizo RR Special Edition at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026. Toyota plans to offer just 100 units of the Special Edition in Japan, starting in spring 2026, with another 100 units expected to be available for select markets in Europe.
Based on the evolved GR Yaris, the Special Edition, which is an under-development prototype, was created with direct input from famous master driver Morizo, better known as Akio Toyoda, the Chairman of Toyota Motor Corp.
The Special Edition is said to benefit from the experience of competition in the 2025 Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race, where the GR Yaris #109 (below) racing car competed.
As a team driver, Morizo raced the Toyota Gazoo Rookie Racing (TGRR) GR Yaris #109, completing 15 laps, which is more than originally planned. TGR brought car #109 to its exhibit at the Tokyo Auto Salon (above).
Exclusive features for the Special Edition include a carbon-fiber rear wing, front spoiler, carbon-fiber hood, and side skirts.
The exterior is finished in a new color called Gravel Khaki, along with Matte Bronze alloy wheels, and yellow brake calipers. Specially tuned shocks and electronic power steering (EPS) are also featured.
Additional unique elements for the Special Edition include a “Morizo-autographed” signature on the lower windshield, a Morizo RR emblem on the tailgate, and a serial-number plate (above) planned for the interior.
Another enhancement is an exclusive 4WD control mode. Said to be developed with Morizo, the driver-selectable control replaces Gravel mode with Morizo mode, adjusting front/rear initial torque and driving force distribution to 50:50. The GR full TFT instrument cluster display shows Morizo Mode mode when activated.
Special Edition features continue with a suede-wrapped steering wheel fitted with modified paddle shifters and switches. Yellow stitching is included on the wheel, shift knob, and parking brake.
The driver and front passenger are treated to a set of enhanced Special Edition sport seats, with yellow stitching (a Morizo favorite color) and modified headrest embroidery designs.
GR Yaris regular production powertrain features, expected to carry over to the Special Edition, include an 8-speed Gazoo Racing direct automatic transmission, 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, and 4WD (with new Morizo mode).
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 is scheduled for Jan. 9 – 11, at Makuhari Messe convention center in Mihama-ku, Chiba City, Japan.
Note: GR Yaris Morizo RR Special Edition photos show a prototype vehicle. Features, specifications, and launch-timing for future limited-production models planned for Japan and Europe are subject to change without notice.
News source and photos courtesy of Toyota Gazoo Racing
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