Toyota GR Yaris recently took the automotive world by storm and became one of the most desired hot-hatches around with potential owners praying hefty amounts over the sticker price to get one. However, the folks at Gazoo Racing (Toyota’s racing division), have recently announced an even more aggressive version of the car – the Toyota GRMN Yaris.
The GRMN Yaris was announced at the world-famous Tokyo Auto Salon show and introduces a host of new upgrades to the already sporty GR Yaris. Although the engine upgrades only consist of a 20Nm increase in torque (from 370Nm to 390Nm), the GRMN has a plethora of mechanical upgrades further increasing the handling and track performance of the car.
These upgrades include upgraded transmission with closer gear ratios, mechanical limited-slip differentials, and an overall gearbox material overhaul to increase durability. The body kit of the new Yaris will also receive significant upgrades using lightweight high-rigidity carbon which will be used for the hood, roof, and rear spoiler. The rear seats will also be removed to make way for a reinforcement brace. This will increase the rigidity of the chassis, while also saving 20kg of weight.
Toyota has revealed that the GRMN Yaris will be offered as a limited edition run of only 500 examples, all of which will only be sold in Japan. This will most likely make this version of the Yaris one of the most sought-after vehicles in the sports car collectors market.
Gazoo has stated that each vehicle will be priced at around 8,500,000 Yen (around £55,000) for a high-spec version that includes the optional Circuit Pack. This option will only be given to around 10% of all the vehicles in production making it exceptionally rare.
Other specific options include a Rally Pack that will feature souped-up dampers, a protective underbody plate, and a roll bar.
Costumers in Japan have now been invited to try their luck at reserving the new GRMN edition through a lottery-based system with first deliveries expected in summer 2022. Gazoo Racing also stated that GRMN Yaris owners will benefit from a new ‘personalisation programme’ which will allow them to receive additional parts and software upgrades, as well as other benefits.
