Few cars have caught the attention of car enthusiasts quite like the Toyota GR Yaris and in just a couple of weeks, we’ll be putting one through its paces during a one-week test.
Here in Australia, the GR Yaris has already generated a bit of a cult following, thanks in part to its launch price of AU$39,950 (US$31,000) that saw the first 1,000 units sell out in just a matter of days. Since then, the starting price has increased to AU$49,950 (US$38,800).
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Unlike some European markets where the car’s 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder is capped at 257 hp and 266 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque, the GR Yaris sold in Australia has the same output as Japanese models, meaning 268 hp and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm). Coupled to this firecracker of an engine is a six-speed manual transmission that sends power to all four wheels.
The standard GR Yaris sold in Australia is not available with the Torsen limited-slip differentials, performance-tuned suspension and 18-inch forged wheels as offered in some markets; local customers need to fork out slightly more to get the GR Yaris Rallye model to enjoy those upgrades. Nevertheless, we expect the standard model to be heaps of fun to drive.
We’re planning to drive the car as much as possible, experiencing it through city streets, along highways and, of course, through exhilarating mountain passes where, if early reviews are any indication, it should really shine.
In the meantime, we want you to hit the comments section with questions you have about the GR Yaris and want answered. How practical (or impractical) is it? How fuel-efficient is it? Is it worth the money? Is the hype real? Ask us anything and we will set out to answer it in our full review.
