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By Charl Bosch

Motoring Journalist


Toyota readying even more hardcore GR Yaris

If reports are proven accurate, the pumped-out GR Yaris could potentially produce as much as 221 kW.


With exactly two years having passed today (10 January) since the debut of the GR Yaris at the Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota has provided a teaser image of an even more hardcore model destined for this year’s event.

Though unlikely to revive the full-on GRMN moniker, the still extreme model boasts a new, oversized rear wing, what appears to be a more aggressive front bumper and even wider door sills.

The most interesting addition tough is an air intake on the bonnet, which has unlocked speculation of a possible power increase from the three-cylinder 1.6-litre turbocharged engine.

As it stands, the unit, destined for the incoming GR Corolla, produces 200kW/370Nm in Japan, though detuned in other markets with South African models delivering 198kW/360Nm.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Toyota GR Yaris ‘funnerer’ than other pocket rockets

Based on a report last year from Japan’s carsensor.net, as much as 221 kW could be extracted from the blown three-pot, channelled once again to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.

In addition, the online publication alleges the model will come without rear seats and forgo the electronic handbrake for a conventional mechanical system with a traditional lever.

Despite the Tokyo Auto Salon commencing this coming Friday (14 January), don’t be surprised if complete details and/or images of the GR Yaris appear online before the official reveal.  

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