Toyota has officially announced the launch of the GR Yaris in Middle Eastern markets for the first time, expanding its high-performance vehicle lineup in the region. The model is based on Toyota’s extensive motorsports experience and brings rally-inspired engineering to a compact sports car format.
What was the main inspiration behind the Development of the GR Yaris?
The development of the GR Yaris is deeply rooted in Toyota’s participation in competitive motorsports, including the World Rally Championship (WRC), the Super Taikyu Series, and the Japanese Rally Championship. Engineers applied real-world racing knowledge, along with feedback from professional drivers, to refine handling, durability, and overall performance. Extensive testing was carried out on public roads and race circuits to ensure optimal driving dynamics.
How Is the Toyota GR Yaris Engineered and Manufactured?
First launched in Japan in 2020, the GR Yaris was developed by Toyota Gazoo Racing and is assembled at Toyota’s dedicated GR Factory within the Motomachi Plant. This facility focuses exclusively on high-performance models and employs specialised technicians. The manufacturing process incorporates motorsports-inspired techniques to ensure precision, quality, and consistency.
What Performance and Drivetrain Technologies Does the GR Yaris Offer?
The GR Yaris is powered by a 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine (G16E-GTS) with direct fuel injection, delivering 296 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque through a six-speed manual transmission. Power is managed by the GR-FOUR permanent all-wheel-drive system, which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch. Multiple driving modes allow torque distribution between the front and rear axles to be adjusted according to road and driving conditions.
How Does the Aero Performance Package Enhance Driving Dynamics?
The new Aero Performance Package is designed to improve airflow, cooling efficiency, and vehicle stability. It includes an aluminium hood with cooling vents, front aerodynamic fins to reduce lift, ventilation channels integrated into the fenders, a fuel tank underbody cover for smoother airflow, an adjustable rear wing, and rear bumper air outlets that help reduce aerodynamic pressure.
What Chassis, Suspension, and Safety Features Are Included?
Lightweight materials such as aluminium are used for selected exterior panels, while the roof is made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) to lower the centre of gravity. The suspension setup features MacPherson struts at the front and a double-wishbone system at the rear, supported by front and rear limited-slip differentials, forged aluminium wheels, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
In terms of safety, the GR Yaris is equipped with six airbags and a wide range of driver-assistance systems, including a pre-collision system, radar cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive high-beam headlights. Additional features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, an emergency call system (eCall) in selected markets, stability control, advanced braking systems, and tyre pressure monitoring.
Availability and pricing details for the GR Yaris in Middle Eastern markets are expected to be announced closer to the official on-sale date. Toyota has confirmed that the model will be offered through selected authorised dealers across the region, with market-specific specifications and equipment levels. Further information regarding launch timing, trim options, and pricing is anticipated in the coming months, as Toyota prepares to introduce the GR Yaris to customers seeking a compact performance car inspired by the brand’s global motorsports programmes.
