Toyota GR Yaris Manual Variant Outcompeted by Automatic Version

KatadataOTO – PT TAM (Toyota Astra Motor) has introduced the latest version of one of their high-performance cars, the GR Yaris. Previously only sold with a manual transmission, the automatic version made its debut at GIIAS 2024.

The Toyota GR variant is synonymous with sports cars, so it is commonly paired with a manual transmission. But recently, a new trend has emerged, and many consumers actually prefer automatic cars.

When asked about the comparison of order numbers, Toyota was reluctant to disclose them. However, they claim the figures are not much different.

However, it should be noted that sales of the manual GR Yaris were discontinued in 2022, as it was a limited production. Unlike the automatic GR Yaris.

Photo : KatadataOTO

“To be honest, when I tried the car, I initially underestimated the automatic type. But it turns out that the automatic can be faster than the manual in terms of response,” said Anton Jimmi Suwandy, Marketing Director of PT TAM in Jakarta some time ago.

Overall, there are several changes to the automatic GR Yaris compared to the manual transmission type. Besides using an eight-speed automatic transmission, the power has increased from 257 hp to 300.8 hp, and the torque has increased to 400 Nm from the previous 370 Nm.

But the engine used is still the same as the manual option, which is a 1,600 cc three-cylinder turbo.