The track-focused version of the GR Yaris will return in facelifted form, but it is not clear if it will retain the limited availability of its predecessor
- The high-performance GRMN variant makes a comeback as the flagship model in the refreshed GR Yaris lineup.
- The prototype reveals a more extensive aero package, wider side skirts, revised brakes, and a focus on improved cooling compared to the standard GR Yaris.
- It was driven by Toyota Chairman, Akio Toyoda, who flew to Germany to take part in the development testing.
The Toyota GR Yaris underwent a mid-lifecycle update earlier this year, benefiting from a host of enhancements such as more power, an improved interior, and some styling tweaks. Now, a prototype captured testing at the Nürburgring reveals that the high-performance GRMN limited production variant will make a comeback as the flagship model in the refreshed lineup. It’s expected to receive similar updates to further enhance its track-focused capabilities.
The GRMN edition of the GR Yaris debuted in 2022, with a limited production of 500 units exclusively reserved for Japanese customers. What makes this sighting of the prototype even more special is that it was driven by none other than Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, who flew from Japan to participate in the development testing. The “Master Driver” also rode in the passenger seat, demonstrating his dedication to working in collaboration with the engineering team.
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The white GRMN Yaris was devoid of any camouflage, allowing clear visibility of the visual updates compared to its predecessor, including the more extensive aero package compared to the standard GR Yaris. Up front, the hot hatch sports the redesigned bumper seen on the standard model, but with additional intakes for improved cooling, necessitating the relocation of the license plate. Additionally, a more pronounced carbon fiber splitter and a recovery point are noticeable.
The hood lacks the vent and unpainted carbon fiber finish seen on the previous GRMN Yaris, but it maintains the bulge in the center and features a pair of quick-release clamps, adding to its racecar aesthetics. On the profile, wider side skirts with integrated fins are noticeable, while the rear retains the characteristic wing with swan-neck brackets mounted on the rear spoiler.
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Visible behind the black-finished alloy wheels are the upgraded brakes, featuring Endless branding on the calipers. It’s likely that Gazoo Racing engineers will outfit the GRMN Yaris with an even more aggressive chassis setup to complement its wilder exterior.
We’re uncertain if the model will receive any performance enhancements, as the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine of the standard GR Yaris was recently upgraded to 300 hp (224 kW / 305 PS) and 400 Nm (296 lb-ft) of torque. However, with its sharper chassis setup and revised aerodynamics, it’s expected to deliver improved track performance and an even more engaging driving experience on the road.
There is no official Information about the debut of the latest GRMN-branded supermini, which could take place later this year. It remains to be seen if the facelifted model will be produced in more than the 500 units of its predecessor, and if it will be made available to other markets outside Japan.