Friday, November 29

Toyota GR Yaris, a spectacular tribute to the rally

Toyota has decided to pay tribute to one of the most iconic moments of his story in the rally with a special version of its GR Yaris modelwhich will be available only in Italy.

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This limited edition, known as GR Yaris TGR Italia Limited Editionis a celebration of the brand’s first victory in the World Rally Championship (WRC), achieved in 1973 during the Press On Regardless Rally in Michigan, United States.

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On that occasion, The Corolla 1600 Coupé took Toyota to the podiummarking the beginning of a tradition of success in rally competitions.

This new version of the GR Yaris is distinguished by a series of features that evoke the aesthetics and spirit of the vehicle that made history in the 70s.

One of the most notable elements is the incorporation of red stripes on the hood and sides, a direct nod to the design of the 1973 Corolla 1600.

In addition, the car has with 18-inch alloy wheels in a striking gold colour, called “Heritage Gold”which contrast elegantly with the Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tires, optimized to maximize traction and performance in highly demanding conditions.

An interior inspired by racing

The interior of the GR Yaris TGR Italia Limited Edition It has also been designed to pay tribute to Toyota’s rally legacy.

Each unit will come with a numbered plate that will highlight its exclusivity.and will be equipped with the Tech package as standard, which includes advanced technology such as parking sensors, blind spot and rear cross traffic alert, as well as autonomous emergency braking.

The designers’ approach in this limited edition has been to recreate the feeling of being at the wheel of a racing car.

To do this, The center console has been completely redesignedadopting a driver-oriented configuration that facilitates quick and intuitive access to all controls, inspired by suggestions from professional rally drivers.

Key controls such as the intercooler spray, stability control deactivation (VSC-OFF) and hazard warning lightshave been repositioned for more efficient use in high-speed situations.

Mechanical innovations and improved power

Under the hood, the GR Yaris TGR Italia Limited Edition has received significant improvements to its 1.6-litre turbo engineToyota has incorporated reinforced valves, a new material for the exhaust valves and a water injection system in the intercooler, among other advances.

These changes have not only increased the fuel injection pressure, but have also raised the engine power from 261 to 280 hp, with an increase in torque from 360 to 390 Nm.

This performance enhancement translates into an even more dynamic driving experience, optimized to meet the demands of rally enthusiasts.

Toyota GR Yaris TGR Limited Edition
Toyota GR Yaris TGR Limited Edition. Credit: Toyota.
Credit: Courtesy

Exclusive edition for the Italian market

Only 51 units of this special edition will be produced.and all will be destined exclusively for the Italian market, with a price of 67,500 euros each.

This limited production run not only increases its appeal to collectors and motorsport fans, but also reinforces the exclusivity of this series that celebrates Toyota’s heritage in motorsport.

Renewed exterior design

As for its outward appearance, The GR Yaris TGR Italia Limited Edition features some modifications that go beyond the aesthetic.

On the front, The bumper has been redesigned with larger air intakes and ventswhich not only improves aerodynamic efficiency, but also makes it easier to repair minor damage by allowing individual parts to be replaced rather than entire components.

This feature is particularly relevant for rally teams, where speed of repairs can be crucial.

For its part, The headlights, 18-inch BBS forged alloy wheels and other signature elements of the GR Yaris are retained.although the internal design of the rear lights has been updated to integrate the fog light, complying with current road safety regulations and optimising visibility in adverse conditions.

With the GR Yaris TGR Italia Limited Edition, Toyota not only celebrates its rich history in rallying, but also reaffirms its commitment to innovation and performance.

This limited edition symbolizes the competitive spirit of the brandfusing elements of its glorious past with the most advanced technologies of the present.

For motorsport enthusiasts, this is a unique opportunity to own a piece of Toyota heritage, designed not only to recall the triumph of the past, but to continue to challenge the boundaries of performance in the future.