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About the Toyota GR Yaris
AI-generatedThe Toyota GR Yaris is a homologation special born from Toyota's World Rally Championship ambitions, launched in 2020. This compact three-door hot hatch features a bespoke turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine producing 261bhp (or 280bhp in the Circuit Pack model), paired with Toyota's sophisticated GR-Four permanent all-wheel-drive system. Unlike a typical warm hatch conversion, the GR Yaris uses a unique lightweight body structure combining the front of a Yaris with a bespoke rear end, resulting in exceptional performance and handling. With a 0-60mph time of around 5.5 seconds and rally-bred engineering, the GR Yaris offers genuine motorsport pedigree in a road-legal package. It's built in limited numbers at Toyota's Motomachi plant in Japan, making it an instant collector's item. The car features adjustable torque distribution between front and rear axles, three driving modes, and Torsen limited-slip differentials. Despite its hardcore performance credentials, it remains surprisingly practical for daily use with decent rear seats and boot space.
Known Issues
Known Issues
First Generation
2020-present
- Some early models experienced cracked cylinder heads requiring engine replacement under warranty
- Circuit Pack models particularly affected by head gasket failures in 2021-2022 production
- Occasional reports of turbocharger wastegate rattle on cold starts
- Handbrake can require adjustment, particularly on cars used on track
- Some owners report clutch judder when cold, typically resolves when warm
- Infotainment system can be slow to respond and lacks Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on early models
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Running Costs
Running Costs
Annual Fuel
£2,200
Insurance Group
41-42
Average Service
£450
Cost Calculator
Typical Prices
£36,000 - £42,000
£32,000 - £38,000
£28,000 - £34,000
£20,000 - £26,000
Pros & Cons
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional handling and all-wheel-drive traction
- Genuine rally-car heritage and engineering
- Surprisingly practical for daily use
- Strong investment potential and collectability
- Reliable Toyota build quality once cylinder head issues resolved
- Engaging three-cylinder engine character
- Usable performance in all weather conditions
Cons
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Best & Worst Years
Best & Worst Years
Best Years
- 2023 - Cylinder head issues resolved, improved build quality, benefits from factory updates and refinements
- 2024 - Latest specification with all known issues addressed, potential for final edition models with enhanced specifications
Worst Years
- 2021 - Highest incidence of cylinder head cracking problems, particularly on Circuit Pack models with higher-output engines
Buying Checklist
Engine6 items
- Check for any cylinder head replacement history or warranty claims
- Listen for turbo wastegate rattle on cold start
- Ensure no oil leaks around head gasket area
- Check for smooth idle and no misfires
- Verify service history with genuine Toyota parts
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
Only 25,000 GR Yaris models were initially planned for global production to meet WRC homologation requirements
The GR Yaris shares almost no body panels with the regular Yaris - it's essentially a bespoke vehicle
The roof, bonnet and tailgate are made from aluminium to save weight, with the roof panel being just 0.6mm thick
Toyota's CEO Akio Toyoda personally drove and approved the final dynamics setup
Alternatives to Consider
Volkswagen Golf R
More refined daily driver with similar power and AWD, better infotainment, more practical but less special
Hyundai i30 N
Cheaper hot hatch with engaging dynamics, more equipment, but front-wheel-drive only and less exclusive
Ford Focus ST
More affordable performance, larger boot, comfortable daily use but lacks the GR Yaris's rally pedigree
BMW M135i xDrive
Premium badge, powerful AWD, more luxurious but heavier and less focused driving experience
Owner Tips
- 1Ensure any 2020-2022 model has had cylinder head inspection or replacement under Toyota's extended warranty programme
- 2Use premium 99 RON fuel for optimal performance and engine protection
- 3Allow engine to warm up fully before hard driving to prevent clutch judder and reduce wear
- 4Check service history meticulously - track use significantly affects values
- 5Have handbrake adjusted at services to maintain effectiveness
- 6Consider extended warranty given the specialist nature and repair costs
- 7GR-Four system benefits from regular all-wheel-drive system checks during servicing
- 8Keep wheels and tyres in good condition as they're crucial to the car's performance
Check a specific Toyota GR Yaris
Enter a registration number to see MOT history, tax status and more