Prices for the Volkswagen Golf GTI rival start from £44,250 in the UK
Brand’s esteemed hot hatch gets a performance boost, adjusted suspension and two special editions
Pricing and specification details for the new, updated Toyota GR Yaris have been revealed, with the high-performance hot hatch increasing in cost by over £12,000 compared to the previous model.
Prices for the Volkswagen Golf GTI rival start from £44,250 in the UK, with special Ogier and Rovanpera Edition models coming in at £60,000.
The new GR Yaris will once again feature the same 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, but gains the option of an eight-speed automatic gearbox for the first time. Power has increased from 258bhp to 276bhp, while torque is up from 266lb ft to 287lb ft.
Beneath the metal, the new GR Yaris gets modified suspension for improved handling, gaining revised spring rates and a stronger front shock absorber.
Inside, the hot hatch also sees changes to the driving position and cockpit with a new infotainment system. Toyota says it offers a “more authentic sports car feel”.
The GR Yaris will only be sold in the UK in limited numbers, though Toyota did not confirm the exact number of cars coming to the UK.
A spokesperson for the brand confirmed to Autocar that pricing was not linked to demand but was “representative” of the car’s positioning, with factors such as inflation and new technology contributing to the rise.
Rivals such as the Honda Civic Type R, at £48,060, have also jumped in price for their latest variants.
Current owners of a GR Yaris, plus those already on the brand’s waiting list, will have the chance to enter a ballot from May 2024, for a chance to secure an allocation.
The special, rally-inspired variants – the Sébastien Ogier Edition and the Kalle Rovanperä Edition – will also come to the UK in limited numbers, priced at £60,000.
They’re inspired by the Gazoo Racing competition cars driven by Sébastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä in the World Rally Championship (WRC), and gain special driving modes.
The Ogier Edition gets Morizo mode to improve traction and cornering, plus Seb mode, which diverts more power to the rear wheels to boost handling at higher speeds.
The Rovanperä Edition gets Donut mode for improved drifting and donut spins, plus Kalle Mode, which makes full use of an extra rear differential.
