Toyota increases GR Yaris allocations with updated model
Respected by motoring scribes, WRC aficionados and performance enthusiasts alike, the GR Yaris became the car that unified the digital motoring landscape. Following unprecedented global demand and an overtly positive market response, Toyota Motor Corporation extended the production and availability of the GR Yaris. Toyota South Africa has received its second allocation of GR Yaris models, these however come with a bit of an upgrade.
Launched in 2021, the Toyota GR Yaris achieved worldwide acclaim for its combination of performance, driver engagement and motorsport-infused pedigree. Having raked in a raft of awards, including multiple Car of the Year and Performance Car of the Year trophies, across global markets - it became an 'overnight' motoring sensation.
Following market feedback, the line-up has been reduced to a single model, the 'top-spec' Rally variant. As before the Rally model is equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential on both the front and rear axle, performance-tuned suspension, revised power-steering assistance and 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels - shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4s tyres.
In addition to the mechanical upgrades, the Rally model also boasts combination leather/Alcantara sports seats in the front with enhanced bolstering, leather rear seats, Heads-up Display (HUD), the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) active safety suite and Active Noise Control. Active Noise Control amplifies the engine sound by cancelling out opposing frequencies - adding a vocal soundtrack.
Standard specification includes keyless entry with push start, LED-headlamps with Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and auto function, LED fog lamps, heated and power-retractable exterior mirrors, plus rain-sensing wipers. On the inside, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, dual-zone climate control, Multi-Information Display (MID), 12-volt power outlet and a tilt-and-telescopic adjustable steering column deliver on convenience.
A 6-speaker touchscreen audio system is standard on all models, and features Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality for smartphones as well as Bluetooth and USB inputs.
New for 2022 is the addition of a reverse camera and rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
The GR Yaris’s engine is a three-cylinder turbocharged unit that benefits from motorsport technologies to maximise performance, including multi-oil jet piston cooling, large-diameter exhaust valves and a part-machined intake port. This 1.6-litre unit develops 198kW and 360Nm of torque. A 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 5.5 seconds is achieved thanks to all-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual gearbox.
The driver can adjust four-wheel drive performance to suit their preference or the driving situation using a 4WD mode dial switch. In normal mode the base front/rear torque distribution is 60:40; in Sport mode the balance shifts to the rear, with a 30:70 split to achieve a fun-to-drive quality on winding roads and circuits; and in Track mode the base setting is 50:50 for fast, competitive driving on circuits or special stages.
This little pocket rocket does however come at a premium of around R761 200. However, it is a very special car made for the enthusiast.
