All torque: Toyota GR Yaris gets factory-backed performance boost

Toyota GR Yaris owners in Japan can now access extra performance for their hot hatch.

Toyota announced this week it has added the GR Yaris to its Kinto Factory program in Japan, which enables vehicles to be upgraded with a new engine tune – unlocking an additional 20Nm from the 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine.

Named ‘GR Yaris Performance Software 2.0’, the remapping boosts performance from 370Nm to a maximum of 390Nm – as well as improving the torque curve – bringing the engine specifications into line with the Japan-only GR Yaris Morizo Edition (and GRMN Yaris) limited editions.

A spokesperson for Toyota Australia told Drive there are "no plans" to offer the GR Yaris engine tune locally at this stage.

While the company’s Kinto program in Australia gives access to Toyota models on a subscription basis, in Japan, Toyota owners can access software tunes, basic interior "renovation", and vehicle customisation through a service known as Kinto Factory.

As well as software upgrades, Kinto Factory offers Japanese owners the ability to upgrade their vehicles by retrofitting parking sensors, power outlets, or even power sliding doors for people movers.