Toyota Unleashes GR Yaris Special Editions with WRC DNA: Kalle and Ogier Inspired

Toyota has recently unveiled two exclusive high-performance variations of the new GR Yaris, which have been crafted with direct input from the Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team's champion drivers, Sébastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä.

These exceptional renditions were proudly introduced during the Rallye-Monte Carlo, marking the commencement of the 2024 FIA World Rally Championship (WRC).

Champion Drivers' Influence

The inception of these models traces back to concept versions displayed at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon, meticulously refined under the guidance of Ogier and Rovanperä—celebrated champions with TGR-WRT. Ogier clinched two of his eight WRC drivers' titles in 2020 and 2021, while Rovanperä triumphed in the subsequent years.

Akio Toyoda, the Chairman and Master Driver of Toyota Motor Corporation, also known by his racing alias "Morizo," has personally driven the initiative to honor the drivers and teams who have sculpted the rally capabilities of these cars, extending gratitude to the organizers and the spirited fans of the sport.

Customized Performance Modes

Both vehicles bid farewell to the "Gravel" and "Track" modes found in the standard GR Yaris and introduce settings that mirror the drivers' individual preferences for handling and performance. To complement their unique characteristics, both editions showcase exclusive exterior and interior styling elements.

Heartening the cars is a fine-tuned version of the GR Yaris' 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which churns out 280hp and 390Nm of torque, paired with a six-speed intelligent manual transmission (6iMT).

The Ogier Edition GR Yaris

The Ogier Edition is an embodiment of precision, boasting new AWD control modes named Morizo and Seb. The Morizo mode, inspired by Toyoda's own rallying experiences, is finely calibrated to assist in achieving consistent race times across varying acceleration and braking scenarios.

Conversely, the Seb mode, curated by Ogier himself, leverages Torsen limited-slip differentials and all-wheel drive to distribute torque rearward, promoting ease of oversteer. This interplay enables drivers to feel a profound connection with the vehicle, facilitating quicker high-speed driving body control.

The aesthetic allure of the Ogier Edition is accentuated by its Matt Stealth Grey paint and the French tricolor adorning the radiator grille and the 18x8J BBS alloy wheels, paying homage to Ogier's heritage.

Additionally, the bodywork is enhanced by WRC commemorative stickers, a bespoke carbon fiber CFRP rear spoiler, and bold blue-painted brake calipers. The doors are decorated with TOYOTA GAZOO Racing decals, and an exclusive Ogier Edition logo graces the back door.

Inside, the vehicle boasts a WRC victory commemoration plaque on the passenger side of the instrument panel, with stitching on the steering wheel, shift, and parking brake gaiters, and seat upholstery reflecting the French national colors.

The Rovanperä Edition GR Yaris

Equally impressive is the Rovanperä Edition, which introduces an exhilarating Donut Mode, tailored for the WRC's youngest champion renowned for his drifting prowess. This mode ensures consistent, strong torque to the rear wheels, making "door turns" a breeze.

The Kalle Mode, named after Rovanperä, achieves linear handling through a constant-velocity rear differential alongside Torsen limited-slip differentials, enabling dynamic entry into bends and powerful exits.

This edition shines with a unique three-tone paint job that resonates with the motifs of Rovanperä's race helmet. The vehicle also sports WRC victory stickers, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing decals, and a special Rovanperä Edition badge. Further distinguishing features include BBS 18x8J alloys, a CFRP variable wing rear spoiler, and constant-velocity rear differential gears.

Inside, the cabin's trim and upholstery stitching evoke the Finnish flag's blue and grey hues, with a plaque similar to the Ogier Edition, celebrating TGR's WRC victories.

Toyota has announced that the Ogier and Rovanperä Editions will be produced in extremely limited quantities. Enthusiasts and potential buyers will have to wait for further information regarding ordering and sales in European markets, which will be disclosed by national distributors at a future date.

DriveSpark Thinks

In conclusion, Toyota continues its legacy of integrating motorsport excellence into its road-going vehicles. The introduction of these GR Yaris editions not only cements Toyota's commitment to high-performance engineering but also pays a fitting tribute to the drivers and teams that have propelled the brand to rally stardom.

As these special editions prepare to hit the roads, they promise to deliver an unparalleled driving experience, born directly from the crucible of world rally championships.