Rikutsu-Kone-Taro’s GR Yaris is not equipped with electronic safety driving assistance devices or a navigation system. Consequently, it doesn’t come with a backup monitor.
This became a source of considerable fear for me when reversing, given the inherent poor rear visibility of the GR Yaris, compounded by the installation of full bucket seats that lower the viewpoint. The blind spot below the rear window’s lower edge expanded, creating a significant blind spot when reversing.
However, recently (at the end of 2021), the staff at GR Garage Kitaikebukuro suggested that a third-party backup monitor could be neatly installed. They proposed, ‘How about that?’
Without hesitation, I requested the installation.
The results are excellent. I obtained a clear rear view beyond expectations(Photo1).
The finishing is superb. The camera itself is hardly noticeable, and its size is such that you wouldn’t realize it unless you consciously observe.
I think the name of the third-party product they installed was Data System Rear Camera Harness or Data Sonic Rear Camera. I apologize if my memory is inaccurate.
If you’re interested, you might want to inquire at your local GR Garage. They probably can accommodate you depending on their stock.
The cost for the third-party backup monitor and the bucket seat installation was roughly around 250,000 yen (maybe a bit less?). I proudly consider it a good purchase.
I’m glad I didn’t opt for the navigation system and the safety driving assistance devices.
However, it’s a downside that, unlike genuine products, it doesn’t display guidelines on the screen. There’s a slight sense of a directional shift in spatial awareness, but since I didn’t choose the option from the beginning, I won’t complain.
Therefore, I believe it’s wise to rely on the monitor to a limited extent and treat it as just one source of information.