Hardcore Toyota GR Yaris Rallye launched from sub-$55k

Toyota has launched its track-ready GR Yaris Rallye, taking the super hot hatch to an even higher level of performance.

Building on the 200kW GR Yaris three-door performance hatch, the new Rallye edition introduces lightweight components and performance parts, specifically designed for hardcore track driving.

Key upgrades include circuit-tuned GR suspension, Torsen limited-slip differentials on the front and rear axles, an ultra-light high-performance wheel-and-tyre package, and improved front brake ducting to improve cooling.

The GR Yaris Rallye exterior is distinguished by bespoke Frosted White crystal pearl paint and bright red brake callipers bearing the Toyota Gazoo Racing logo.

Inside, the Rallye supports enthusiastic driving with synthetic leather-accented sports front seats that feature large bolsters, red stitching and perforated Ultrasuede inserts.

A uniquely numbered GR Yaris Rallye plaque adorns the centre console with an additional Rallye badge on the rear hatch.

The two Torsen limited-slip differentials on the GR Yaris Rallye control torque distribution between the left and right wheels to deliver natural and direct car control with enhanced stability, cornering performance and grip.

To further improve handling and traction, the GR Yaris Rallye is equipped with lightweight, high-strength 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design.

They are shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S high-performance 225/40ZR18 tyres, designed for extra grip, stability and control during high-speed driving.

The front MacPherson strut suspension from the GR Yaris has been upgraded with stiffer springs and anti-roll bars to realise the new model’s full performance potential.

Delivering exceptional performance, the GR Yaris Rallye is powered by the same 200kW/370Nm 1.6-litre single-scroll turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine as the GR Yaris, propelling the car from standstill to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds.

All that power is delivered to all four wheels through the clever GR-FOUR all-wheel drive (AWD) system via a six-speed manual gearbox with rev-matching on up and down shifts.

GR-FOUR AWD is designed to optimise torque through a high-response coupling and an electronically controlled multiplate clutch located ahead of the rear differential.

It features three driver-selectable modes – Normal, Track and Sport – that apportion different ratios of front and rear drive according to the mode selected with maximum 60/40, 30/70 and 50/50 splits respectively.

GR Yaris Rallye features the same three-door body shell as the standard GR Yaris with its purposeful design and lightweight architecture including a carbon-fibre roof and aluminium panels for the doors, bonnet and tailgate.

The sculpted, aerodynamically-designed, lightweight body parts along with several weight-saving mechanical parts ensure the car achieves a kerb weight of just 1280kg.

Despite its track-focused attribute, the GR Yaris Rallye still features the slew of Toyota Safety Sense technologies including a pre-collision safety system with autonomous emergency braking, intersection assistance, high-speed adaptive cruise control, lane trace assist and road-sign assist.

Other safety features include ventilated disc brakes, emergency steering assist, auto high beam, blind spot monitor, head-up display, reversing camera and six airbags.

The driver-focused cabin is fitted with a small-diameter leather-wrapped steering wheel with fingertip controls, leather-wrapped short-throw gear shifter and handbrake, and aluminium pedals.

Large speedo and tacho dials sit either side of a 4.2-inch multi information display that offers an array of details including turbo pressure and gear-shift indicators.

The adjustable driver’s seat and tilt-and-telescopic steering column contribute to an ideal seating position.

Two rear seats feature ISOFIX anchor points and are split 60/40- to expand the 141-litre luggage space to a maximum 737 litres when the seats are folded.

Standard premium equipment includes dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, smart entry and start, 8-speaker JBL audio, an advanced multimedia system and a 7-inch touchscreen display.

Toyota GR Yaris Rallye pricing

Recommended driveaway price (for first 200 vehicles sold): $56,200
Recommended retail price: $54,500

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