Toyota Yaris GR Sport: The Hybrid in Dynamic Mode

Toyota adds the GR Sport badge to its calm hybrid Yaris. It features aesthetic enhancements as well as chassis adjustments that promise a more fun driving experience.

Following the Corolla and C-HR, but before the Aygo, Yaris Cross, and RAV4, this new GR Sport trim elevates the Yaris lineup. Starting in the second quarter of 2022, it will be available on the hybrid version of the small versatile car, which is powered by a 1.5L three-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, delivering only 116 hp.

So, how does Toyota justify the “GR Sport” label for this new version, when we all know the excitement of the “real” Yaris GR, with its all-wheel drive and 261 hp? First, through features that refresh its style. The Yaris GR Sport receives a patterned grille, a rear diffuser, and 18-inch alloy wheels with red accents. To give an exclusive feel, the Japanese manufacturer also offers a gray paint option (Chrome Gray), exclusive to this version, which can be paired with a black roof.

This is a well-known recipe among other manufacturers, allowing them to sell a more sporty-looking car at a higher price but with modest powertrain. Can we then say that GR Sport at Toyota is equivalent to RS Line (soon Alpine Line) at Renault, GT Line at Peugeot, or S Line at Audi? Not quite, because Toyota goes a bit further with a revised chassis. And then, the GR name tells a story. GR, for Gazoo Racing, indeed symbolizes a passionate garage—a place where enthusiasts work tirelessly on every detail to create the best cars. In this case, we can say it’s a mix between passion and marketing.

Carefully Crafted Road Performance

The Yaris GR Sport features specific suspension settings, which will probably slightly reduce comfort but limit body roll. Additionally, reinforcements have been added to the chassis to improve rigidity, and a more substantial electric steering has been chosen. Toyota also highlights that the wheel arches have been redesigned to reduce aerodynamic drag. This might be a bit superficial (or just a marketing ploy) considering the power. Perhaps it was also aimed at reducing noises coming from this often poorly insulated area?

A Distinctive Interior

Toyota distinguishes this Yaris from others with a specific interior treatment. The driving position becomes more sporty with a perforated leather steering wheel and aluminum pedals. A black upholstery option (with red stitching and heated front seats) adorned with a Gazoo Racing badge is also available. This badge can be found on the steering wheel, headrests, and start button. The trim is also distinguished by bronze accents on the vents, center console, and door panels. These colorful touches add vibrancy to an otherwise digital cockpit (like the hybrid Yaris), whereas the “real” GR features analog gauges.

While this does not make you feel like Sebastien Ogier at the start of a special stage, it sets a more engaging atmosphere on the road. The Toyota Yaris GR Sport will also come with a package of equipment designed to justify its price, estimated at around €27,000. Full details of the lineup will be revealed in March 2022.