In years gone by, Toyota was known as a maker of well-priced economy cars and performance vehicles. Readers will remember the Corolla RSI and RXI models, Twincam Conquest’s, Celica’s, and, of course, the legendary Supra. But one day, Toyota seemed to move away from performance cars, much to the chagrin of their loyal fans.
But it seems they’re back with a bang. A new Supra, GR86 sports car and the incredible GR Yaris have signalled a change at the Tokyo-based brand. Toyota is showing no signs of slowing down, recently unveiling a pair of limited edition GRMN Yaris models.
Already a phenomenal hatchback, the engineers at Toyota Gazoo Racing have focused their attention on making it an even more focused machine. The GRMN is lighter, lower (by 10 mm) and wider, to improve aerodynamics. The four-wheel-drive hot hatch features a six-speed, close-ratio transmission and has mechanic LSD’s at the front and rear, replacing the Torsen variants found in the GR Yaris. What’s more, a strengthened metal-matrix clutch has been fitted.
To make it lighter and leaner, Toyota has removed the rear seats and replaced the bonnet, roof, and rear spoiler with high-rigidity carbon. This, says the brand, reduces weight by 20 kg. 200 kW and 390 Nm of torque make it quick in a straight line, too.
Lucky customers are able to choose from special packages, including a Circuit and Rally Package. Those who opt for the former gain BBS GRMN-specific 18-inch alloy wheels, equally big brakes, Bilstein shock absorbers (with adjustable damping force), a side skirt, and a lip spoiler.
The Rally Package adds a GR shock absorber and a short stabiliser link set. A GR roll bar (along with a side bar) is also standard, while an under-guard set protects the vehicle from rough rally roads.
Want one? Well, we’ve got some bad news for you. The special Yaris will be limited to just 500 units - and they’re for Japan only.
However, if you’re looking to buy a Toyota GR Yaris, click here.
FAQ
Q: What makes the GRMN Yaris different from the regular GR Yaris?
The GRMN Yaris is 20kg lighter thanks to carbon fibre bonnet, roof and rear spoiler, sits 10mm lower, has mechanical LSDs front and rear instead of Torsen units, features a strengthened metal-matrix clutch, and comes without rear seats for ultimate weight saving.
Q: How much power does the Toyota GRMN Yaris produce?
The GRMN Yaris produces 200kW and 390Nm of torque from its turbocharged three-cylinder engine, making it seriously quick in a straight line despite being a compact hatchback.
Q: Can I buy a Toyota GRMN Yaris in South Africa?
Unfortunately no, the GRMN Yaris is limited to just 500 units worldwide and is exclusively available in Japan, so South African buyers will have to settle for the regular GR Yaris which is already pretty spectacular.
Q: What are the Circuit and Rally packages on the GRMN Yaris?
The Circuit Package includes BBS GRMN-specific 18-inch wheels, bigger brakes, adjustable Bilstein dampers, side skirts and lip spoiler, while the Rally Package adds GR shock absorbers, short stabiliser links, roll bars and protective under-guards for rough terrain.
Q: Is the Toyota GR Yaris available in South Africa and what does it cost?
Yes, the regular Toyota GR Yaris is available in South Africa with pricing starting from around R899,700, making it one of the most accessible all-wheel-drive performance hatchbacks you can buy locally.
Should You Buy It?
Well, you literally can't buy the GRMN Yaris unless you live in Japan and were lucky enough to snag one of the 500 units, but that doesn't mean you should ignore Toyota's performance renaissance. The regular GR Yaris at R899,700 is still an absolute weapon that'll embarrass cars costing twice as much, and it proves Toyota is serious about building proper driver's cars again. If you want a slice of this rally-bred madness, the standard GR Yaris is your best bet, and honestly, it's already more car than most people will ever need on South African roads.
