Roll into 2021 with the GR Yaris

The motoring world of 2021 boasts a line-up of exquisite cars expected to hit the market this year.

The selection is sure to appeal to buyers on the higher earning spectrum of things – affordable does not seem to be a game car manufacturers are keen on playing in 2021.

While the line-up is quite extensive with motoring companies in constant rivalry to release competitive cars, there is one car that stands out.

Previously thought to be the more ‘budget friendly’ option, Toyota is expected to release the GR Yaris in the middle of the year – the price however is estimated to be around R700 000. ‘Budget friendly,’ you thought…

The Gr Yaris is a car built from scratch and designed to be a beast at highest levels.

This is Toyota’s second global GR model, following the launch of the GR Supra in 2018.

Motoring review platform, Road and Track had it right when they said two things of the new Toyota.

First, it is more exciting than the new Supra.

Second, Toyota is a rational company, but sometimes they do go mad – and the new Toyota is an example of that madness.

From lightweight bodywork, to a turbo three-cylinder engine which pumps out a massive 286 horsepower and variable torque-split-all-wheel-drive, this GR Yaris is made for racing and performance.

The engine further boasts up to 192 kW of power and 360 Nm.

According to Toyota, the 200kW/370Nm version will be the one that will be making its way to Mzansi, in limited numbers though.

A six-speed manual transmission compliments a 1.6L inline-3 turbocharged engine.

And yes, it’s fast, faster than the average Polo Tsi. The GR Yaris reaches a top speed of 230kmh.

Fit for a racing fanatic with tech in mind, the interior incorporates unique red stitching and all the bells and whistles.

From the outset, development teams put their heads together with Tommi Mäkinen Racing (TMR).

TMR’s input saw the birth of a rigid, lightweight construction agile, powerful and responsive, yet compact vehicle.

Professional rally drivers the world over have complimented the GR Yaris.

Be sure to keep an eye out for this one come mid-2021.