Gen 2 GR Yaris Aero Performance finally delivered in New Zealand. I first put down a deposit for order on 2nd May 2026 and arrived in country 15th October 2026. Picked up from Toyota dealership on 22nd October 2026. Was told by salesman this may be the first customer order to land in NZ.
I did ask for vertical handbrake option when ordering the car, however I was told that this was not an option for New Zealand customers. Toyota NZ has since released confirmed this will be available as an accessory option in future.
Coming from driving a 2014 Toyota GT86 (auto) for the last 9 years, it sure is a different experience. The only thing I may need to look into is adjusting the handbrake tension as it does have difficulty with holding itself on a steep hill without engaging the handbrake all the way. As someone without too much experience in driving manual it will take some getting used to. I plan to track semi regularly this car as I have with my 86 every few months, starting in Feb 2027 as part of the Playday Southern Tour track experience. I will be taking part in 6 track days on 3 different tracks in the South Island.
Car will be going in for coloured paint protection film 9th November and will be a different colour. Until then, the Precious Metal is looking amazing
I did ask for vertical handbrake option when ordering the car, however I was told that this was not an option for New Zealand customers. Toyota NZ has since released confirmed this will be available as an accessory option in future.
Coming from driving a 2014 Toyota GT86 (auto) for the last 9 years, it sure is a different experience. The only thing I may need to look into is adjusting the handbrake tension as it does have difficulty with holding itself on a steep hill without engaging the handbrake all the way. As someone without too much experience in driving manual it will take some getting used to. I plan to track semi regularly this car as I have with my 86 every few months, starting in Feb 2027 as part of the Playday Southern Tour track experience. I will be taking part in 6 track days on 3 different tracks in the South Island.
Car will be going in for coloured paint protection film 9th November and will be a different colour. Until then, the Precious Metal is looking amazing
