Al-Futtaim Toyota has announced the expansion of its GR line-up in the UAE with the launch of two new Gazoo Racing models, the GR Corolla and the GR Yaris, strengthening its high-performance offering as interest in performance driving and enthusiast culture continues to grow across the country.
The launch reflects a broader shift in the local automotive market, where drivers are increasingly seeking vehicles that combine everyday usability with authentic motorsport engineering.
Toyota has been present in the UAE for more than seven decades through its partnership with Al-Futtaim and has been longstanding part of the country’s mobility story. While historically known for durability and reliability, the brand has in recent years invested in performance-led engagement through its Gazoo Racing programme, bringing motorsport engineering closer to everyday drivers.
“The UAE has a strong and growing community of driving enthusiasts,” said Jacques Brent, Managing Director Toyota and Lexus UAE at Al-Futtaim. “With the GR Corolla and GR Yaris, we are offering customers vehicles that retain Toyota’s practicality and reliability while delivering a genuine performance experience developed directly from motorsport.”
Pure motorsports DNA across the GR models
Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR), the automaker’s motorsport division, has been closely involved in the planning, development and manufacturing of the GR Corolla and GR Yaris, developing thrilling All Wheel Drive 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbo engines, eight-speed Gazoo Racing Direct Automatic Transmission and six-speed intelligent manual transmission for Drivers who prefer the control and engagement of changing gear for themselves.
The GR Full TFT (thin-film transistor) 12.3-inch Multi Information Display meter has been developed for these vehicles after receiving feedback from professional drivers. This feature means important information is easy to see, even under high-speed track conditions, along with cockpits designed for sports driving.
Other motorsports-inspired features for the GR Corolla and GR Yaris include sports leather seats and 18-inch alloy wheels. To keep drivers and passengers safe and comfortable, both models have adaptive cruise control, dual auto air-conditioning, rear-view camera, blind spot monitor, 6 airbags, 8-inch display for audio as well as built-in Navigation system (GR Yaris), 8 JBL speakers (GR Yaris) and 6 speakers (GR Corolla).
“Our starting point was the driver experience. The GR Corolla and GR Yaris combine motorsport engineering with the usability customers need for everyday roads,” said Jacques Brent.
GR Corolla: Track-ready and a great daily drive
The GR Corolla combines performance with practicality. This model is ideal for the driver who is interested in motorsports, enjoys track days and also needs a practical, reliable vehicle for everyday use. With 296hp and 400Nm of torque the GR Corolla packs a punch under the hood, while offering the practicalities drivers expect from this popular model.
From a design and engineering perspective, the GR Corolla has been created thoughtfully from every angle. Tiny surface height variations in the corners of the front bumper improve aerodynamics, while front and rear shock absorbers have built-in rebound springs for better stability when cornering. Inside, the shift lever has a shortened stroke and is positioned for natural driver access, while the pull-type parking brake is within easy reach for control in motorsports scenarios.
With a bigger body than the GR Yaris, the GR Corolla offers the passenger and cargo space that has made the base model so successful. Along with the standard safety, comfort and entertainment features, drivers can be confident that the GR Corolla is just at home on the school run as it is on the track.
“Toyota has demonstrated that power and performance do not need to be sacrificed when designing a dynamic car that still fits seamlessly into family life,” says Jacques Brent.
GR Yaris: WRC-inspired and perfect for weekend fun
The design and engineering of the new GR Yaris is inspired by the success of the Yaris in the World Rally Championship (WRC). GR Yaris has an appealing, performance-driven design, wide and low stance, large lower grille opening, rear spoiler, generous muffler baffles, reinforced chassis and body, the downforce effect of the bumper corners are all examples of how the body shape offers a stable and sporty driving experience.
GR Yaris include Drive Mode Select, which sets up the vehicle for sporty or everyday driving with adjustments to the powertrain, power steering and air conditioning.
Adding to the motorsports experience is Circuit Mode, which brings out the GR Yaris’s full potential on the track with anti-lag control and an increased top speed for the speed limiter. The Cooling Package – comprising a sub-radiator, cool air intake and intercooler sprayer – helps keeping the temperature down when competing in motorsports driving (A/T only).
“For many customers the GR Yaris will be a passion purchase, but it is still practical enough to be enjoyed regularly. It proves that a performance car can be engaging without sacrificing usability,” said Jacques Brent.
The introduction of the models comes as the UAE’s automotive landscape evolves beyond traditional segments. Track days, motorsport events and enthusiast communities have expanded significantly in recent years, while younger buyers are showing increased interest in performance vehicles that remain practical for daily driving.
Manufacturers are increasingly responding with smaller, lighter performance models rather than large-engine sports cars, reflecting changing preferences and urban driving environments.
