Toyota finally pulled the covers off its high-performance GR Yaris—a homologation model born to win the FIA World Rally Championship. Learning from competing in the WRC, Toyota developed the GR Yaris together with Tommi Mäkinen and will be produced to a tune of at least 25,000 units over a 12-month period.
The GR Yaris employs a sports 4WD platform based on the TNGA approach. Taking feedback from real WRC experiences, Toyota Gazoo Racing built the GR Yaris from scratch to achieve a high-rigidity body of highly refined balance while also optimizing front and rear suspension geometry.
By combining its platform with the “GR-FOUR” sports 4WD system, efforts were made to achieve a high level of dynamic performance. Furthermore, the upper body, in addition to using aluminum for the hood, trunk lid, and door panels, features a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic roof panel formed using the sheet molding compound method, which accommodates a high level of freedom in shape design.
The 1.6-liter in-line three-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine is a newly developed compact and light high-power unit specifically for the GR Yaris. Employing lightweight parts and optimizing its breathing and exhaust system, it makes 272 horsepower—the highest maximum output for a three-cylinder engine in the world. Combined with a 6-speed iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission), which makes rhythmical gear changes possible, this engine provides overwhelming acceleration and allows users to experience an increase in engine revolutions that feels good.
Furthermore, the newly developed “GR-FOUR” sports 4WD system, which uses a front and rear variable driving force system enabled by a multi-plate clutch, transfers the power of the new engine to all four wheels with minimal loss. Freedom of driving force distribution between the front and rear wheels has been increased, making possible delicate control that matches road surface conditions. These advancements have resulted in a higher level of stand-out driving stability.
Production will be carried out on a dedicated production line at Toyota’s Motomachi Plant, which has a long and solid track record of manufacturing sports cars, and plans are for assembly to be carried out by takumi (master craftsperson) team members.
Commemorating the launch of the GR Yaris, Toyota has also come up with a special GR Yaris RZ First Edition. It dons matte black front grille, front side diffusers, rear spoiler, and rear bumper. The High-Performance First Edition adds a Torsen limited slip diferential, an intercooler with cooling-spray function, and forged BBS wheels. The First Edition model goes on sale starting at 3.96 million yen (~ P 1.831 million) and topping out at 4.56 million yen (~ P 2.10 million).
Toyota GR Yaris Specifications
- Overall Length: 3,995 mm
- Overall Width: 1,805 mm
- Overall Height: 1,460 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,558 mm
- Curb Weight: 1,280 kg
- Seats: 4
- Engine: 1.6-liter inline-3 (G16E-GTS) turbo, direct-injection
- Maximum Output: 272 horsepower
- Maximum Torque: 370 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed MT (iMT)
- Drive: 4WD, GR-Four Sports 4WD with Torsen limited-slip differential x 2 (front, rear) + Electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential / 4WD mode dial switch (Normal / Sport / Track)
- Front Suspension: Independent, MacPherson Strut
- Rear Suspension: Independent, Double Wishbone
- Brakes: Ventilated Disc (Front and Rear)
- Tires: 225/40 R 18 (Front and Rear)
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