by Toyota offers powerful software updates for GR Yaris and GR Corolla, but with a caveat
Most hot hatches receive only one mid-lifecycle update phase and then remain unchanged. However, Toyota, which created two of the best models in this genre — the GR Yaris and GR Corolla — constantly finds reasons to return to their improvement. The latest changes make both cars even sharper, but the most aggressive update comes with fine print that owners should read twice.
The main part of the work concerns performance-oriented software settings that Japanese owners can purchase from Toyota. These include Street (99,000 yen / approximately $635), Circuit (173,800 yen / $1,115), and Competition (265,100 yen / $1,700) packages. All are available for the latest GR Yaris and GR Corolla models.
Street package and new features
The Street package adds a new shift timing indicator to the digital instrument cluster. The software also allows adjusting throttle response, actively managing torque distribution for all-wheel drive, and tuning the steering. The Circuit and Competition packages promise to be even more exciting.
Shifting without lifting off the gas
With the Circuit package, six-speed manual models gain a “flat-shift” function, allowing the driver to keep the gas pedal floored while shifting gears. Toyota has also added a rally-inspired anti-lag system to increase boost pressure, featuring five different settings. Models with automatic transmissions also received improved transmission response.
Is it worth risking the warranty?
The Competition update adds even more tuning capabilities. Owners can adjust power distribution in 1 percent increments within a range from 70:30 to 30:70 (front/rear axle). Clutch torque can also be tuned in 1 Nm (0.7 lb-ft) increments between 0 and 299 Nm (221 lb-ft). Further software settings allow adjusting steering weight with eight different options.
Toyota engineers have also developed new “Competition All-Wheel Drive Settings” for both models, further modifying torque distribution. In “Gravel” mode, the cars aim for maximum stability, while in “Track” mode, they focus on improving corner entry, which is ideal for autocross events.
There is one caveat. Toyota states that the Competition package is intended exclusively for competitive use, and any damage to the all-wheel drive system resulting from its use is not covered under warranty. Read that twice before hitting “buy.”
Mechanical updates for GR Corolla
Completing the updates are mechanical enhancements for pre-facelift versions of the GR Corolla. Torque has been increased to the level of the current model, rising from 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) to 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Power remains unchanged at 224 kW (300 hp). Changes were also made to the four different all-wheel drive modes.
Whether these updates will reach markets outside Japan remains a question. Toyota has not yet committed to supplying the software or hardware updates to other markets.
Toyota’s approach demonstrates a commitment to meeting the needs of the most demanding enthusiasts who are willing to pay for additional vehicle customization options. However, the clear warning about possible voiding of the transmission warranty when using the top-tier Competition package indicates that the company seeks to protect itself from potential issues related to extreme use. This makes the updates attractive for track days and competitions but also places significant responsibility on the owner. It remains unknown whether buyers outside Japan will see these features, which may be due to different regulatory requirements and warranty obligations in various markets.
