The opening round of the Vios Challenge 2025 concluded last weekend, showcasing intense competition between young drivers and veteran racers.
This year’s race featured 36 participants, including entries from Thailand and Singapore, competing across three main classes: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.
Among the highlights of the Vios Challenge 2025 was the debut of four-time GR GT Cup champion Taj Izrin in the Sporting class.
Representing Saksama Motorsports, Taj Izrin delivered an outstanding performance, securing two podium finishes — third place in Race 1 and second place in Race 2.
Meanwhile, in the Rookie Class, simulator driver Ian James claimed the top spot, leaving kart racer Aydan Khaliq more than 13 seconds behind.
Genevieve Ooi, the only female driver in the Rookie Class, achieved third place in the second day of racing.
Aydan was the only Rookie driver to maintain a podium position on both race days.
It is noteworthy that the Rookie racing class is designated for young drivers under the Young Talent Development Program by Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia.
Below is the list of winners for both races that took place over the weekend:
In addition to the launch of the automatic variant of the GR Yaris, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has also announced the availability of the latest Gazoo Racing model, the Toyota GR Supra Track Edition.
Unlike the standard GR Supra model, the Track Edition variant promises a more exhilarating driving experience, thanks to upgrades in the chassis, handling, and aerodynamics.
The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition is powered by a three-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine that produces 388 PS and 500 Nm of torque, with an option for a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is as quick as 4.1 seconds, or 4.3 seconds for the manual version.
What makes driving the GR Supra Track Edition even more exciting is the use of adaptive suspension system tuned for more effective grip, along with a Track Edition-exclusive recalibration of the power steering system and limited-slip differential (LSD).
The braking system has been upgraded to larger 374 mm front rotors, assisted by Brembo four-piston calipers.
Additionally, enhanced aerodynamic features include wider wheel arches, aero fins, and a carbon fiber ducktail spoiler for increased downforce.
Moreover, Toyota has strengthened the front control arms and adjusted the front negative camber for more agile handling, accompanied by upgraded bushings and sway bars for sharper handling response.
The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition comes with 19-inch matte black alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.
For the cabin, it features black leather and Alcantara upholstery with GR logo stitching, red seatbelts, a JBL sound system with 12 speakers, a colored head-up display, and a special gear knob for the manual GR Supra.
Standard safety features included in this sports car comprise pre-collision warning, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and emergency braking.
In the Malaysian market, the GR Supra Track Edition is priced starting at RM698,000.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the arrival of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift hot hatch, which is now available in an 8-speed automatic variant.
The introduction of this model complements the previously launched manual version of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift during the conclusion of the seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival in Malaysia.
The GR Yaris continues to feature the 1.6-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, G16E-GTS, which now produces 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
With the newly paired automatic DAT transmission, the GR Yaris can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
This high-performance engine is also equipped with a standard cooling package, which includes a sub-radiator, intercooler spray, and a combination of air and fluid ATF coolers to ensure consistent performance, especially under Malaysia’s hot weather.
Additionally, this Automatic variant of the GR Yaris introduces new features such as Launch Control and paddle shifters, which have been fine-tuned based on motorsport experience to provide a more exciting driving experience for everyday journeys.
Finally, it comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes pre-collision warnings, radar cruise control, lane tracing assistance (LTA), and Expert Mode for drivers seeking a more dynamic control without completely disabling the vehicle stability system.
For the Malaysian market, the Toyota GR Yaris AT is priced at RM325,600 and is available at all GR Garage dealers nationwide.
About a year after the introduction of the facelifted GR Yaris model, Toyota still sees room for improvement in this compact sports car.
For the 2026 model update, Toyota Gazoo Racing has focused on several aspects.
One of the key updates is making the Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) gearbox more responsive to driver input.
Additionally, handling and chassis control have been enhanced with the use of larger-diameter suspension component fasteners, combined with recalibrated shock absorbers and an electric power steering (EPS) system.
Buyers can also opt for a vertical parking brake inspired by rally sports for the new GR Yaris.
Not stopping there, Toyota now offers an aerodynamic body kit (Aero Performance Package), which includes a vented aluminum hood, front lip spoiler, fender vents, flat fuel tank cover, adjustable rear wing, and rear bumper air openings.
The Toyota GR Yaris continues to feature the three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine, generating 304 PS and 400 Nm of torque, paired with the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system and an option for either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic DAT.
In Japan, the GR Yaris is priced between 3,560,000 yen and 5,330,000 yen (approximately RM 109,859 to RM 164,480).
Eleven years ago, Toyota launched a special edition sports car under the youth-oriented Scion brand, known as the Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0.
Unfortunately, due to lackluster demand, the Scion brand was discontinued just two years after the FR-S model was introduced.
Now, the spirit of that limited edition car returns with the 2026 GR86 Yuzu Edition, specifically for the American market.
Starting with the Premium variant, Toyota has added a Performance Package that includes Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers to this yellow GR86.
Buyers can also opt for accessories such as a body kit and a quad-tip exhaust system for a more striking appearance.
Lastly, the exterior of this vehicle is enhanced with Yuzu Yellow, complemented by matte black 18-inch alloy wheels.
The cabin of the GR86 features yellow stitching, replacing the red thread found in existing models.
In terms of power, the GR86 Yuzu Edition retains the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, producing 228 hp and 250 Nm of torque, with the option of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
As standard, this rear-wheel-drive car is equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD).
Unlike the FR-S Release Series 1.0, which was limited to 1,500 units, Toyota makes the GR86 Yuzu Edition even more special with only 860 units to be produced.
First revealed in November last year, Toyota Gazoo Racing has officially announced the sales of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition for the Japanese market.
Only 300 units of this Final Edition model will be produced, with 150 units allocated for the Land of the Rising Sun, and the remaining units will be sold in the European market.
What makes the GR Supra A90 Final Edition particularly special is the standard features it offers directly from the factory, compared to the regular GR Supra model.
In terms of performance, the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is equipped with a B58 engine that has been upgraded to deliver 441 PS and 571 Nm of torque, compared to the standard 387 PS and 500 Nm.
Toyota has also optimized the intake and cooling systems, culminating in a titanium Akrapovic exhaust unit.
Moreover, the chassis of the GR Supra has been reinforced with the addition of brace structures in several locations, followed by front and rear stabilizer bars crafted from reinforced aluminum.
KW adjustable suspension is utilized at all four corners, with the camber angle adjusted for both the front and rear wheels.
Contributing to improved handling are the active differential control and an optimized electronic steering system.
The 19-inch front and 20-inch rear aluminum rims are fitted with wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are 10 mm wider than the standard settings.
The exterior appearance of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is enhanced by carbon fiber components like the front spoiler and canards, along with a “ducktail” rear wing.
Inside the cabin, there are full Recaro Podium CF bucket seats, red seatbelts, and extensive carbon fiber and Alcantara trim that dominate the interior space.
With the improvements offered in this model, it’s no surprise that Toyota has set a sales price of approximately 15,000,000 yen (RM 443,000), which is higher than that of the GR Supra RZ grade.
Interested parties can register at all GR Garage locations across Japan starting April 13; however, buyers will be selected via a lottery system. Winners (a.k.a the rightful owners) will be announced on May 9.
High-performance vehicles, internal combustion engines, and manual transmissions.
This is the recipe that Toyota Gazoo Racing aims to uphold for an extended period, signaling good news for its fans worldwide.
In a report by CarSales AU, Toyota Australia executive Sean Hanley stated, “Internal combustion engines and manual transmissions will continue to be maintained for the long term.”
This approach does not mean that Toyota is completely sidelining modern technology for its Gazoo Racing models.
Toyota has previously explored the possibility of replacing petrol with hydrogen for internal combustion engines, even testing this concept extensively through participation in major races.
Currently, Toyota offers four high-performance models (GR Yaris, GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla), and this family of performance vehicles is expected to be joined by new models such as the GR GT3, Celica, and MR2, according to various sources.
There are also reports that Toyota is collaborating with Mazda to develop a sports car featuring a straight-six engine — could this be a replacement for the existing GR Supra?
Whatever Toyota has in store for the future, Hanley wants the Gazoo Racing sub-brand to be better recognized for “the sound, smell, and feel of internal combustion engines.”
If you have been closely following Toyota’s developments, you may have come across some news about the comeback of an iconic name – Celica.
Rumors about the return of the Celica name have been circulating online for years.
However, all speculation was finally put to rest when Vice President Yuki Nakajima confirmed the news of a new Celica model’s development to the public during the Rally Japan event in November 2024.
This news was further strengthened by a recent report indicating that the manufacturer has registered the trademark “GR Celica” in the Brazilian market, dated January 15, and officially published on February 4, according to Carscoops.
With this development, it suggests that the GR Celica model will also be offered in South America alongside primary markets such as Europe and Japan.
Several reports suggest that the GR Celica will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine, generating around 400 hp and paired with the GR-Four all-wheel drive system.
This new engine has already been showcased by Toyota in the GR Yaris M Concept, featuring the G20E code positioned mid-ship.
Two questions arise: Is the GR Yaris M Concept actually an indication of the engine configuration for the GR Celica, or does it refer to another model, namely a successor to the MR2?
As the largest automotive manufacturer, Toyota rarely disappoints its fans during the Tokyo Auto Salon events.
For the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota unveiled a prototype hot hatch known as the GR Yaris M Concept.
Unlike the standard GR Yaris, the GR Yaris M Concept is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine (code-named G20E) that replaces the existing three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine.
What’s even more surprising is that the new engine is not positioned at the front; instead, it is placed in a mid-ship layout.
According to Toyota, these changes aim to explore the potential of the GR Yaris hot hatch, and they also plan to race this vehicle in the Super Taikyu series.
This prototype will be fully tested on the racetrack while receiving valuable feedback from professional drivers, including Morizo (Akio Toyoda).
The existence of the GR Yaris M Concept raises a question: is this a significant indicator of the upcoming new MR2 model?
In conjunction with the closing ceremony of the seventh season of Toyota Gazoo Racing, UMW Toyota Motor has launched three high-performance models for the Malaysian market: the 2025 GR Yaris, 2025 GR Corolla and the Corolla GR Sport.
According to UMW Toyota Motor President, Datuk Ravindran K, “Driving is not just about moving from one destination to another, but an emotional experience that connects the soul with the road, bringing joy to every journey.”
“With the launch of the GR and GR Sport models, Toyota continues its legacy by elevating the driving experience to extraordinary levels. Developed with a spirit of performance, these models are designed to inspire and excite every Malaysian.”
2025 Toyota GR Yaris facelift
The hot hatch, born from Toyota’s involvement in WRC racing, is still powered by a 1.6-liter inline three-cylinder turbo engine that generates 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.
For the Malaysian market, it is still offered in a six-speed manual version, along with the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system.
Engine performance is enhanced with the addition of a sub-radiator and an intercooler spray system for optimal operation under extreme pressure.
It has been reported that the GR Yaris with an eight-speed automatic transmission (DAT) is expected to follow later.
Changes to the exterior include a completely new front bumper structure with the Functional Matrix Grille Ver. 2, designed to maximize airflow and cooling, followed by new rear lamp units, an exhaust system, and a diffuser.
Inside the cabin, the dashboard layout has been completely revamped, incorporating elements from rally racing and the Super Taikyu Series.
In comparison to the previous GR Yaris, the control panel and display screen have been positioned at a 15-degree angle, allowing the driver easier access to the desired functions.
Additionally, the driving position has been improved, now with the driver sitting 25 mm lower and the rearview mirror raised.
There is also a full 12.3-inch TFT digital cluster display.
The GR Yaris 2025 facelift is priced at RM315,600.
2025 Toyota GR Corolla facelift
Like the GR Yaris hot hatch, the GR Corolla facelift is also powered by the G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine, producing 300 PS and 400 Nm, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system.
The driving aspects of the GR Corolla have been enhanced with upgraded suspension systems, providing benefits in grip levels, agility, and stability.
Aerodynamically, the GR Corolla features a completely new bumper design for improved airflow, while the wheel arches have been widened for a bolder appearance.
The hot hatch image, inspired by rally sports, is complemented by an updated interior featuring performance-oriented seats, gun-metallic finishes, a 9-inch central display, and a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen.
There are several attractive color options available, including Platinum White Pearl Mica, Precious Black, Precious Metal, and Emotional Red 2.
The Toyota GR Corolla 2025 is priced starting from RM367,000.
2025 Toyota Corolla GR Sport
Another model launched is the Corolla GR Sport 2025, which is a more practical yet sporty option.
This C-segment sedan is still powered by a 1.8-liter engine producing 139 PS and 172 Nm, but it comes with a Sport Sequential CVT transmission that offers 10 virtual speeds.
In terms of appearance, the Corolla GR Sport features a two-tone color scheme, a unique GR Sport grille with a hexagonal pattern, aerodynamic accents on the bumper, 18-inch GR Sport alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler.
Inside the cabin, the Corolla GR Sport showcases suede and premium leather-trimmed seats, a GR steering wheel, and a 10-inch central screen equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This sedan is available in several two-tone color options, including Platinum White Pearl Mica, Red Mica Metallic, and Attitude Black Mica.
The Toyota Corolla GR Sport 2025 is priced starting from RM149,800.
Whether we realize it or not, the seventh season of the Vios Challenge, organized by Toyota Gazoo Racing, is now nearing its conclusion this weekend.
The seventh season of the Vios Challenge is proving to be more challenging and unpredictable with the introduction of the fourth generation Vios racing vehicle, driven by 34 racers across three different categories: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.
Starting in August of last year, the seventh season of the Vios Challenge features three rounds and six individual races, offering a total prize pool of RM630,000.
The Super Sporting class will see an intense battle among notable racers such as Naquib Azlan (Axle Sport), defending champion Mitchel Cheah (Prima TD Racing), Freddie Ang (Telagamas), Amer Harris (Laser Motor Racing), and Hayden Haikal (TD Racing).
The overall champion will take home a prize of RM80,000, followed by RM60,000 for second place and RM40,000 for third.
In the Sporting class, several contenders are poised to be crowned champions, including Elson Lew (BAE Racing by ES Young), Kenneth Koh (PCM Group Racing), and Shafiq Samsudin (Race Rally KL).
This category offers cash prizes of RM60,000, RM40,000, and RM20,000 for the champion, runner-up, and third place winner, respectively.
Meanwhile, the Rookie class, featuring young drivers under the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program, has seen fierce competition among Adam Mikail (18 years old), who has recorded three victories, Brandon Ho (22 years old), who has achieved four podium finishes, and Raja Amirul Syauqat (21 years old), who secured second and third place in the last two races.
The final racing event of the seventh season of the Vios Challenge will take place at the PETRONAS Malaysia International Circuit and will be a closed event, but it will be broadcast live across all UMW Toyota Motor’s social media platforms.
In addition to the racing event, Toyota Malaysia will also introduce three high-performance models: the GR Corolla facelift, Corolla GR Sport, and GR Yaris facelift.
In addition to the introduction of the limited edition A90 Final Edition model, Toyota Gazoo Racing has also updated the GR Supra Lightweight Evo as an equally impressive alternative.
The Lightweight Evo version retains the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine, delivering 382 hp and 500 Nm of torque, and is available with either a manual or automatic transmission.
This model features a more stripped-down design compared to the A90 Final Edition, with the GR Supra Lightweight Evo equipped with distinctive elements such as a carbon fiber ducktail spoiler, new matte black 19-inch wheels, and fins on the front wheel arches.
However, Toyota remains committed to enhancing the handling characteristics, equipping this model with larger Brembo brakes, revised camber angles on the front and rear wheels, and tuning of the electronic shock absorber control.
Additionally, Toyota engineers have reinforced several crucial components, including rubber bushings, rubber mounts, sway bars, and underbody braces.
Finally, the electric power steering system has been recalibrated to provide a better steering feel and handling response.
Inside the cabin, the GR Supra Lightweight Evo features Alcantara-wrapped seats adorned with GR logos, red seatbelts, and red stitching on the gear knob, giving it a sporty appearance.
According to Toyota, although production of the GR Supra A90 is coming to an end, this does not indicate that the model will be neglected.
On the contrary, the GR Supra will continue to thrive in various motorsport disciplines around the world.
Toyota has also indirectly confirmed that the GR Supra will receive a new generation successor, hinted at through an Easter egg featured in a short animated series called GRIP.
Whether we realize it or not, the Toyota GR Supra has now been around for five years since it was introduced in 2019.
Before the production of this rear-wheel-drive sports car comes to an end, Toyota Gazoo Racing has launched a limited edition model called the Toyota GR Supra A90 Final Edition.
The original inline-six 3.0-liter turbo engine has been tuned to achieve a power increase of 90 hp and 70 Nm, bringing the total to 435 hp and torque of 570 Nm.
Changes made include a revised airflow, the use of low back-pressure catalytic components, and optimization of engine operation control.
As a result, this Final Edition GR Supra can achieve a higher top speed of approximately 270 km/h.
To maintain peak performance at all times, Toyota has added a baffle plate to the engine oil pan to prevent uneven oil distribution under high G-forces.
The cooling system is enhanced with a radiator fan, a sub-radiator, and larger cooling fins on the differential cover.
Handling has been improved with an adjustable KW suspension system similar to that used in the GR Supra GT4 race car, accompanied by adjustments to the front and rear wheel camber angles for better grip, as well as an active differential control to reduce understeer.
In addition, Toyota has recalibrated the electric steering system for more dynamic, natural, and connected handling, and added a crossbar in the rear cargo space along with strengthened front and rear stabilizer bars.
Drivers will also experience improved cornering stability, thanks to wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires that are 10 mm wider, wrapping around lightweight 19-inch front and 20-inch rear rims.
The braking system has been enhanced with high-friction brake pads, front and rear floating drilled rotors, and stainless steel braided brake hoses.
Finally, all these upgrades would be incomplete without a more aggressive appearance.
The Toyota GR Supra A90 Final Edition features an aerodynamic body kit inspired by motorsport involvement, including a carbon fiber front spoiler, front bumper middle canard, front bumper side fins, carbon fiber hood vents, and a carbon fiber goose-neck rear wing.
Additionally, the A90 Final Edition borrows the titanium Akrapovič exhaust from the GR Supra GT4, ensuring a more powerful soundtrack.
Inside the cabin, the GR Supra is equipped with full Recaro Podium bucket seats featuring Alcantara cushion covers and a racy red color scheme for optimal and comfortable driving position, especially under high G-forces.
Production of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is limited to just 300 units worldwide.
In addition to the Japanese animated series “Initial D” and “MF Ghost,” which feature characters driving Toyota-branded cars, there is also an anime series officially produced by the automaker itself.
The anime series “GRIP,” which can be watched legally on YouTube, is now in its second season and includes Easter eggs that will delight fans.
Shared on the Supra MKV forum, one such Easter egg appears on a chalkboard in a scene featuring a list of potential future GR sports cars, including the Supra Mk6, Celica Mk8, MR2 Mk4, GR86 Mk3, and GR GT3.
Notably, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla are completely absent from this list, along with the GR Starlet, which has been promoted as an affordable alternative to the GR Yaris hatchback model.
According to several previous reports, Toyota Gazoo Racing is set to revive several iconic names that are part of the brand’s motorsport history.
The Celica is expected to return as an all-wheel-drive coupe with a 2.0L turbo engine delivering 400 hp, while the MR2 is likely to make a comeback as a mid-engine sports car based on the FT-Se concept model.
In addition to the new generation GR86 and GR Supra, there is also the GR GT3/Lexus LFR, which may be powered by a V8 engine.
Toyota is also looking to develop another fast model, the GR Starlet, which will serve as a complement to the existing hot hatch lineup (GR Yaris, GR Corolla).
Unlike the two models equipped with GR-Four all-wheel-drive systems, the GR Starlet will utilize a three-cylinder inline engine producing around 150 hp and 220 Nm, driving only the front wheels.
In addition to its lineup of custom trucks, Toyota has a special ‘menu’ to showcase at the SEMA 2024 exhibition.
This special offering is the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, which boasts a design inspired by the 1990s Toyota Celica WRC rally cars.
In addition to its Castrol-inspired livery, this GR86 is equipped with striking red mud flaps, white rims, a Celica GT-Four-style rear wing, and a cluster of floodlights on the hood.
More remarkably, this GR86 is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine that delivers 300 hp and 370 Nm of torque, paired with the GR-Four all-wheel drive system borrowed from the GR Corolla model.
Fitting the GR Corolla’s engine and drivetrain into the GR86 was no simple task.
Engineers had to design custom subframes and engine mounts before integrating the complete engine along with the hubs, spindles, and front axles from the Corolla.
Additionally, the GR86 is equipped with a rear differential to maintain the original gear ratios.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find racing seats and steering wheels from Sparco, a safety cage, and a sequential racing transmission shifter replacing the original manual gearbox.
With the debut of the GR86 Rally Legacy, does this mean Toyota is ready to offer a Celica model to its fans in the future?
For those who missed the boat, Toyota has previously updated the offering of the hot hatch 2025 GR Corolla model by adding the option of an 8-speed automatic transmission as an alternative to the manual transmission model.
The trend of transitioning to automatic models, which we commonly witnessed before, seems to have difficulty in infecting the GR Corolla enthusiasts.
According to CarBuzz report, Toyota expects that 80 percent of buyers will choose the manual GR Corolla model, while the rest will opt for the Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) equipped model.
This proves that the GR Corolla buyers are a group of enthusiasts who still yearn for a driving experience as pure as possible.
There are some differences between the existing auto transmission in the GR Corolla compared to the GR Supra and GR86 models.
According to Toyota, the GR Corolla gearbox will use input from the brake pedal and throttle to calculate the optimum time for gear changes.
The auto version of GR Corolla also now comes with a launch control function that is not available in the manual model.
The final round of the 2024 Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) GT Cup Asia concluded last weekend, with Taj Izrin Aiman emerging as the champion, surpassing 14 other participants from five ASEAN countries.
Accumulating a total of 65 points, Taj Aiman was crowned the individual champion of GR GT Cup Asia 2024, taking home a cash prize of US$ 8,000, followed by Andika Rama from Indonesia, the 2023 individual category champion, with a total of 57 points and a prize of US$4,500.
His fellow competitor Moreno Pratama secured the third position on the podium with 48 points and a cash prize of US$3,000.
This means that Taj Aiman and Andika Rama will represent Asia at the GR GT Global Finals on December 6th in Amsterdam.
Three races were featured, starting with the GR Yaris vehicles at the Sardegna Windmills rally circuit, followed by the GR Corolla Morizo Edition at the wet Nurburgring GP circuit, and finally the GR010 Hybrid vehicles at the Fuji International Speedway.
“I am truly at a loss for words. Despite facing technical difficulties and being unable to complete the race last year, I am extremely proud of the dedication and training that has paid off,” said Taj Aiman.
“I am very excited to continue training with Andika Rama in preparation for the Global Cup in Amsterdam.”
Andika Rama, representing Asia for the second time this year, added, “I am honored to represent Asia once again this year. Competing with Taj Aiman has been an incredible challenge.
“I pushed myself, but Aiman’s consistency and strategy in all three races were difficult to overcome. I am thrilled to have Aiman as a teammate as we prepare for the final round and cannot wait to make Asia proud.”
Three special awards were also presented to recognize outstanding performances by participants as follows:
• Driver of the Day – Taj Izrin Aiman (MY)
• Best Racecraft Driver – Russel Reyes (PH)
• Fastest Race Pace – Andika Rama (ID)
GR GT Cup Asia 2024 also welcomed Razer Inc. as the official partner, sponsoring a set of Razer BlackShark V2 X headsets designed to ensure smooth, clear, and comfortable communication among the racers.
The tighter current emission regulations have forced Toyota to shorten the lifespan of the existing rear-wheel-drive GR86 model to make way for a replacement model.
According to a report from the Japanese media Best Car Web, the new generation Toyota GR86 will replace the existing 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Subaru flat-four engine with the G16E-GTS three-cylinder engine found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
This ‘heart’ change is seen as a game-changer for the GR86, considering the purest Toyota sports car has relatively low horsepower (228 hp) compared to its competitors. For comparison, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla can produce 300 hp each.
In addition to the engine swap, Toyota will also add a hybrid system to the new GR86 with a setup similar to that found in the off-road SUV model Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series). Overall, this new GR86 can unleash more than 300 hp to power the rear wheels through a choice of manual or automatic transmission.
This is not the first time news of a powertrain change for the GR86 has been reported. According to the same source last year, Toyota was said to be replacing the Subaru platform to make way for the shorter Lexus IS chassis.
Certainly, the new generation Toyota GR86 with its hybrid engine setup seems poised to close the existing power gap in the compact sports car segment and at the same time delight its fans worldwide.
Starting in 2025, a driving school in Colorado will be using a lineup of Toyota Gazoo Racing sports cars, namely the GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla for winter driver education program.
This high-performance driving program will offer courses lasting one or two days, where each student will be given driving instructions on a track covered in ice and snow in Steamboat Springs.
The GR lineup will be provided in both manual and automatic versions to allow drivers from various backgrounds to experience handling these high-adrenaline machines for themselves. However, for the regular driving program, the school will still maintain the use of Toyota all-wheel-drive vehicles such as the Camry sedan, Highlander SUV, and 4Runner.
Opened since 1983, the Bridgestone Winter Driving School has been responsible for providing driving instructions to nearly 100,000 drivers to be more confident driving in low-grip road conditions.
For us, a great program like this should be extended to Malaysians, especially sports car and electric vehicle (EV) owners, so they can learn to handle high-powered cars in various weather conditions.
Although Malaysia does not have a snow season, these skills can be applied to driving on slippery roads, especially considering the recent high rainfall in our country.
The fact is, many people can afford fast cars, but only a few have the awareness to upgrade their own skills.
Toyota seeks to commemorate the 51st anniversary of its first World Rally Championship (WRC) victory by launching the limited edition GR Yaris model.
With a production limit of 51 units exclusively for the Italian market, the Toyota GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition comes with a unique specification package.
For example, it features a distinctive red decal graphic design inspired by the Corolla 1600 Coupe which won the Press On Regardless Rally championship in Michigan in 1973.
Moreover, this limited edition GR Yaris is adorned with TGR Italy emblems on both the exterior and interior, complete with production serial numbers.
Each of the four wheel arches is adorned with 18-inch forged rims in Heritage Gold color, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires.
Despite these cosmetic changes, no alterations have been made to the heart of the car, the 1.6-liter turbo G16E-GTS three-cylinder inline engine capable of producing 276 hp.
All 51 units of the GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition are offered with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Reservations for this limited edition model will commence on the Toyota Italy website on September 9, and each unit will be sold at €67,500 (RM325,917).
Interested buyers will need to pay a deposit of €2,000 (RM9,657), and notably, Toyota also provides a test drive session in a racing car, two VIP passes for the TGR Italy 2025 event, special car protection, and branded sportswear from Gazoo Racing.
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