If you remember when the Toyota GR Yaris launched in Australia to great fanfare at $39,990, then the $64,990 asked for the car we’re testing might cause some heart palpitations – but there are mitigating circumstances.
That sharp initial price was an introductory offer and the same car now costs $55,490, while the GTS (nee Rallye) is $60,490. Adding the Aero Performance Package lifts this to the aforementioned $64,990, all excluding on-road costs.
An automatic gearbox can be had for an extra $2500, but we’re driving the manual. If that sounds a little steep for a tiny hot hatch, then pity our poor friends over in the UK, who have to stump up $93,949 at current exchange rates.
They also have to make do with 206kW/344Nm thanks to the latest emissions regs. In that context, our GR Yaris is a bit of a bargain, especially as it now boasts 221kW/400Nm from its remarkable 1.6-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine.
That’s a lot of grunt in a small car and with just 1280kg to propel, Toyota’s baby GR is a rocket ship with tremendous in-gear flexibility. It’s been a remarkable engine from day one, with performance and response that completely belie its tiny capacity.
An interesting soundtrack comes courtesy of its cylinder count and a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox that makes all driving scenarios anything but a chore. Be aware, though, that the G16-GTS punches well above its 1.6-litre weight.
The consequence is that it also drinks above its weight too. It’s by no means outrageous, but it does enjoy its 98 RON. The Aero Performance Package is only available on the GTS grade, though in this reviewer’s humble opinion, that’s the only variant worth considering.
The limited-slip diffs and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres transform the GR Yaris chassis to such a degree that the extra $5000 is a no-brainer. Not only is there more grip but also better traction and greater adjustability.
The GR Yaris isn’t playful in the manner of a Fiesta ST though – it’s a bit more serious than that. But it is also fast, with that ample power matched by monster brakes and enough communication from the steering and chassis to really push hard.
That’s even so on narrow, slippery and bumpy roads. In fact, it’s here that the GR Yaris is in its element. Its firm suspension ensures resolute body control but with enough give to not upset progress over big bumps, while its small footprint allows room to manoeuvre.
By far the biggest improvement is the lowering of the driver’s seat and increased vision through the windscreen. No longer do you feel like you’re perched on a bar stool looking through a letterbox.
Instead, you’re an integral part of the car, located properly behind the steering wheel. Simply put, it allows the driver to attack a stretch of tarmac like you’re on a round of the WRC.
It gives you the road-going rally car experience that used to be the preserve of Subaru and Mitsubishi. And they were $60,000-odd 20 years ago. The role the aero pack plays in this is questionable.
According to Toyota, the bonnet vent, front lip spoiler, guard vents, underfloor and rear spoiler bring “real aerodynamic benefits to maximise the incredible dynamism and handling of the GR Yaris”.
With a dry racetrack, a back-to-back test and Princess and the Pea sensitivity there is a quantifiable difference, but by far the biggest factor in buying the kit is that it looks cool. Speaking of racetracks, an outing at Calder allowed us to put the GR through the wringer.
In terms of pace and stamina, it’s very impressive, without the adjustability that separates the very best track cars. It’s important to note, however, that this was before the now standard-fit semi-slick tyres were available.
Another run may be in order to assess the difference. Then again, how they’ll fare on a damp, leaf-strewn back road is also up for contention. Unsurprisingly, the GR Yaris’s dimensions do force compromise.
My four-year old son fit fairly happily in the back, but only with the front passenger seat pushed all the way forward into an uninhabitable position. Sacrifice those rear seats, though, and you have quite a practical little van.
The ride is firm but not tiring on a day-to-day basis and there’s a demeanor to the car that makes you look forward to driving it, even if that’s just to work or the gym. It’s easy to park, but there’s no escaping the fact this is a lot of money for a small, relatively impractical car.
For my money, the larger GR Corolla is not only more useful but more enjoyable to drive. For pure, distilled I-wish-I-was-Sebastien-Ogier thrills though, the GR Yaris has a lot of appeal; it could justifiably sit alongside much more exotic machinery in a multi-car garage.
On that basis, that price tag isn’t so bad after all. You can find out more on the Toyota Australia website, or by talking to your local dealership. To get a low rate finance quote, talk to Australia’s best reviewed car finance broker; Credit One.
To see a great range of vehicles for sale, check out OnlyCars.com.au.
Our test vehicle was provided by Toyota Australia for independent review purposes. Exhaust Notes Australia has not been paid to review this vehicle. Images supplied.
I took ownership of an Aero in June and love it. The new steering wheel definitely enhances the cabin aesthetics and given GR’s ongoing updates of the model, I feel the price is justified to offset their R&D costs. I don’t think any other brand is doing this with their sports models atm while offering the public a chance to own a real rally car. The kids can catch a bus lol.