Toyota GR Yaris

The GR Yaris’ interior is a driver-focused, no-fuss cockpit that's practical, simple, and performance-oriented. Starting with the hefty, leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrast stitching and a GR badge, it also comes with ergonomic controls for audio, phone, and cruising right at your fingertips. The short-throw manual transmission shift is designed for accuracy and improved tactile feel; while its bolstered, suede-and-synthetic upholstered sport seats offer good lateral support during spirited driving. Although technically a four-seater, the back seats are best suited for occasional use due to insufficient legroom.

In true race-car fashion, the dashboard is ergonomically designed and driver-oriented. Its minimalist design with a blend of soft-touch materials and carbon fiber embellishments, along with analog gauges for the speedometer and tachometer, and a central multi-information display prioritizes visibility and ease-of-access. The all-new-and-improved 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with updated graphics comes as a standard and is fully compatible with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. It even comes with a six-speaker audio system.

The Toyota GR Yaris is an aggressive and aerodynamic three-door hot hatch with a broad stance, flared fenders, and sharp lines that highlight its performance-oriented, rally-design technology. Since its initial release, recent updates include a new steel mesh design for the lower front grille, a wider hole for the side grille for increased ventilation, and a split-construction lower bumper. The GR Yaris prioritizes speed and efficiency and opt for very minimal steel and a higher preference for aluminum in its body panels, along with carbon-fiber reinforced plastic roofing, making it super lightweight. 

The current iteration has moved the rear stop light to the lower portion of the back door, boosting visibility and improving downforce and stability while allowing for easier customization of the rear spoiler. Its overall construction is designed to ensure a low center of gravity and nimble handling. The GR Yaris is available in three colors: Emotional Red II, Precious Black, and Super White II.

With its rally-bred DNA front-and-center, peak performance and handling is a given with the GR Yaris. With direct and highly responsive steering, the GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, and its stiff frame, you can expect this car to drive like as a race car should, on the road or in a circuit. 

The GR Yaris is powered by an impressive 1.6-liter, three-cylinder, turbocharged engine, capable of generating 257 horsepower and 360 Nm of torque. This, combined with an engaging 6-speed manual transmission, provides accurate and highly responsive maneuverability. The GR Yaris is also equipped with the Toyota in-house GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system. This nifty feature sends power equally to all four wheels, and even comes with three distinct driving modes: Normal, Sport, or Track. Each mode changes the torque distribution between the front and back axles, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's handling to varied conditions and preferences. As if that's not enough of a treat, its lightweight design and quick handling improve the overall driving experience.

The lack of an automatic transmission option may put off some people, but the manual gearbox complements the car's raw and engaging personality, making it a no-brainer choice for hardcore enthusiasts.

The GR Yaris doesn’t skimp on safety either. It comes with the default safety features you’d expect to find on all modern vehicles, with the addition of the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) driver assistance suite. The TSS comes with features such as a Pre-Collision System Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, and bevy of driver assist features, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). 

This highly specialized number might not appeal to everyone, but if you’re a hardcore car enthusiast who wants to go all-out, the Toyota GR Yaris might just be a match made in heaven.