The Diabolical Toyota GR Yaris Returns

More than ever, GR with reinforced chassis and suspensions, more power, and especially the introduction of an optional automatic transmission.

Rarely has a car received as much praise as the GR Yaris. Toyota has managed to condense its entire World Rally Championship DNA into less than 4 meters, with all-wheel drive, a lightweight build, an incredibly effective chassis, a quick and precise manual gearbox, and a engine with over 250 horsepower. Since this model was launched in 2020, over 18,000 GR Yaris units have been sold in Europe, with a customer satisfaction rate of 99%.

The 2024 model returns with more power, greater responsiveness, and, according to the brand, a more rewarding driving experience. The list of updates is extensive, justifying the label “new GR Yaris.” Key elements include the evolution of the 3-cylinder turbo engine, a world reference in its category, offering even more power and torque, as well as the introduction of the all-new “GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission” with eight gears, designed for extremely rapid gear changes. Sacrilege? Formula 1 drivers aren’t complaining about abandoning the gear lever for steering wheel paddles, so why should we! Especially since it’s just an option. To each their own, thank you Toyota.

At launch, the turbo engine of the GR Yaris was the most powerful 3-cylinder in the world. Now, it offers even more: power has been increased by 19 hp, reaching 280 hp, and the driver benefits from an additional 30 Nm of torque, for a total of 390 Nm.

The lineup, simplified, includes a single “Track” version, with a “performance” cooling pack comprising an additional radiator, an intercooler misting system, and a modified air intake. Perfect for revving out on closed roads or circuits without fear of mechanical failure before the muscles in your neck give out.

Significant interior updates have been made to the GR Yaris. The GR team took inspiration from rally drivers’ feedback to reposition controls for quicker, clearer access, notably lowering the upper dashboard edge by 50 mm, adjusting the rearview mirror position, and tilting the control panel 15 degrees further toward the driver.

The dashboard features a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster configurable in two modes: normal and sport. The sport mode displays data focused on performance, similar to what you’d find in a WRC car.

Toyota will produce special edition models of the new GR Yaris bearing the names of two of its star rally drivers from the World Rally Championship (WRC). The special editions Sébastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä are based on concepts presented at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. They will be unveiled at the Monte Carlo Rally, the opening round of WRC 2024, held from January 25 to 28.

ALSO READ: The price of this Toyota Yaris will double on January 1, 2024!