When you see it, you can’t help but notice: is this hardcore Toyota GR Yaris really called ‘growling’ Yaris?

We write ‘every time’ because Toyota has used the designation GRMN before, for example on the previous generation Yaris. In 2017, the brand introduced the Yaris GRMN, with a 212 hp supercharged engine. This made the small Toyota an excellent hot hatchback, but also a screamingly expensive hot hatchback. With a starting price of almost 50,000 euros, he was about 20,000 euros above the competition.

Toyota GR Yaris is a real homologation special

The new Toyota GR Yaris has no competition. It’s a true homologation special with four-wheel drive, a top-down squeezed three-cylinder turbo engine and even a different body than the regular Toyota Yaris. Instead of a five-door body, there is a lower, wider three-door body with a carbon fiber roof. The GR Yaris is 261 hp and 360 Nm strong. It goes from zero to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. And when the Toyota finally stops accelerating, you’re at 230 km/h. In a Yaris!

Toyota GRMN Yaris with more torque and less weight

This Toyota GRMN Yaris has exactly the same drivetrain, but with slightly more power than the GR Yaris that we know. In Japan, the latter – and therefore also the GRMN Yaris – has 272 hp instead of 261 hp. However, the GRMN has 20 Nm more torque and has become 20 kilos lighter. This through various adjustments, such as the removal of the rear seat and the application of carbon fiber reinforced plastic in the hood and roof.

Unfortunately, only in Japan are the 500 copies for sale

In addition, the developers of Toyota have made the body stiffer and lowered it by 1 centimeter. The GRMN Yaris also has a gearbox with shorter ratios, a different clutch and even better brakes. Unfortunately for us, the limited edition model – only 500 will be made – will only be sold in Japan. There you can order it with the optional Rally Package (other dampers, roll bar, bottom protectors) or Circuit Package (rear spoiler, extra front splitter).