Toyota Yaris GR 2024

In terms of design, the entire front end has been significantly redesigned compared to the previous Yaris GR model. For example, the air intakes are significantly larger, both to better cool the engine and to feed fresh air to the intercooler. In addition, the grille is now made of metal. In terms of styling, the model remains a three-door coupé. To reduce potential repair costs, the fog lights and reversing lights are now integrated into the rear. The roof is lightweight and, with its wide wheel arches, the Yaris GR looks more and more like its big sister from the World Rally Championship.

Inside, everything is designed with the driver in mind, starting with the digital cockpit, where the rev counter and speedometer are clearly visible. The seat position has been lowered by 25 mm compared to the previous model, the rear-view mirror has been moved and the screen integrated into the centre console. These changes provide a more sporty seating position and better outward visibility, two points that had been criticised on the previous model. At first glance, the materials do not appear to be particularly high-end. However, this is a deliberate choice by Toyota. Thanks to the use of lightweight plastics and the absence of unnecessarily heavy equipment, the weight of 1,280 kg is kept as low as possible. The version equipped with the new 8-speed automatic transmission weighs 1,310 kg.

The engine remains a 1.6-litre three-cylinder unit. Thanks to a revised cylinder head, increased injection pressure, reinforced pistons and, as already mentioned, an improved cooling system – in addition, the intercooler can be cooled with water using a push button on the dashboard – the power has increased by 19 bhp to 280 bhp. Torque has also been increased, with 390 Nm available between 3250 rpm and 4600 rpm. For the gearbox, you now have the choice between a 6-speed manual or a new 8-speed automatic with steering wheel paddles, as on our test car. The Yaris GR has permanent all-wheel drive. Power is distributed between the front and rear axles by a clutch in a 60:40 ratio, which can be increased to 30:70 in Track mode. The Gravel programme distributes power between the axles in a 53:47 ratio. Torque is distributed between the front and rear wheels via a Torsen limited-slip differential.

To improve handling, the body has been stiffened by 15% with additional weld points and structural adhesive. In addition, 28% stiffer springs have been fitted at the front, spring stiffness is 11% higher at the rear axle and the power steering responds more quickly. The front axle pivot points have been reinforced and larger stabiliser bars have been installed to increase roll resistance when cornering at high speeds. All these measures to increase rigidity make handling even more responsive, steering very precise and cornering speeds even higher. Thanks to the powerful all-wheel drive system and two limited-slip differentials, traction when accelerating out of corners is impressive. The engine is powerful even at low revs. With the 8-speed automatic transmission, the paddles on the steering wheel ensure you always find the right gear. Purists will opt for the 6-speed manual transmission.

Conclusion: the first Yaris GR was already an impressive sports car, and Toyota has taken the criticism levelled at it at the time to heart. It is clear that the expertise of the rally department has contributed greatly to this development. Few vehicles offer handling so close to that of a rally car, including driving pleasure! At the same time, the Yaris GR is easy to drive on a daily basis, apart from its high fuel consumption for a small car. Our test car averaged over 11 litres per 100 kilometres. One could also criticise the poor-quality plastic parts in the interior, combined with a significant price increase compared to the previous GR. The basic version is now available at a price of €47,025. But this must be put into perspective: on closer inspection, the higher price is justified by the numerous improvements listed here, as well as by the GR’s partly handcrafted construction. And equipment is not necessarily the top priority for a sports car. As this type of car is now quite rare and threatened with extinction, the Yaris GR could become a potential collector’s item in the future. ‘A word to the wise’!