Toyota GR Yaris 1.6 3dr AWD Review
Category: Hot hatch
Section: Version review
The model
Read full reviewDon’t let the fact that it shares a name with Toyota’s regular five-door Yaris hatchback fool you – the GR is a truly special machine. Not only does it pack the firepower to embarrass far more expensive performance cars, but it’s also perfectly suited to UK roads, with its startling all-wheel drive traction, diminutive dimensions and incredible high-speed composure. As long as you’re prepared to live with a few compromises on the practicality front, what you’ll be getting in return is one of the most characterful and entertaining hot hatches of the last decade, especially if you opt for the Circuit Pack.
The trim
See full equipmentThe standard GR Yaris comes fairly well equipped with figure-hugging sports seats, a GR leather steering wheel, an 8in touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless entry and push-button start, GR floor mats, aluminium pedals and a black leather gear shift with red stitching. The Convenience pack introduces a punchier eight speaker JBL sound system, sat-nav, front & rear parking sensors, rear cross traffic alert with brake assist, a blind spot monitor, a head up display, an illuminated entry system and a UV Windscreen. We’d recommend the Circuit pack as it comes with beautiful 18in BBS forged alloy wheels wrapped with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, limited-slip differentials front and rear, sports suspension and red brake calipers. Those chassis tweaks really make the most of the GR’s fantastic chassis.
The engine
See full engine specsPacking 261bhp and 266lb ft of torque, the 1.6-litre engine in the Yaris GR is actually the world’s most powerful three cylinder engine. It sends this power to the road via a six-speed manual gearbox and a clever all-wheel drive system. The net result is a car that can accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds (according to our own testing) and will go on to a limited top speed of 143mph. That puts this Fiesta ST sized car in the same performance leagues as larger and more powerful hot hatches such as the Honda Civic Type R and Renault Megane RS.
