Toyota has unveiled a pair of new Yaris subcompact cars including a more economical and refined mainstream model along with a supercharged performance variant.
The updated 2017 Yaris is the result of a 90-million-Euro investment, an outlay that brought forth some 900 new or redesigned parts.
Visually, both ends of the car have been tweaked. Up front, there’s a catamaran-shaped front bumper and new headlamps. ‘Round back, things are dressed up with a fresh hatch and LED tail-lamps.
Ten different colors are now offered while the super-thrifty Yaris hybrid model rolls along on 16-inch alloy wheels, the largest ones available. Curiously, 40 percent of all Yarii… or is it Yarises? Whatever, 40 percent of them sold in Europe feature that electrified drivetrain.
Mainline models are powered by a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, which replaces a 1.33-liter unit. Overall consumption is reduced by around 12 percent on the New European Driving Cycle. Overall, this engine delivers around 110 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque, enough to push the Yaris to 62 miles an hour in just 11 seconds, 0.8 seconds faster than its predecessor.
The car is also quieter and smoother thanks to redesigned engine mounts, a new front sub-frame and a modified intake system, among other things. Additionally, Toyota Safety Sense is standard. This includes things like autonomous emergency braking, automatic high beams and road-sign assist.
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The Yaris GRMN, short for Gazoo Racing Masters of the Nürburgring is a highly tuned hot-hatch inspired by Toyota’s return to the FIA World Rally Championship.
Under its short hood is a 1.8-liter supercharged four-cylinder engine that will deliver more than 210 horsepower. It’s paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which routes torque through a Torsen limited-slip differential.
Naturally, the suspension has been reworked, with lower springs, a larger stabilizer bar and special shock absorbers. The brakes have also been upsized and feature four-piston calipers. Bringing it all together, this car has been tested and tuned on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Visually, the Yaris GRMN has unique front and rear bumpers, a rear diffuser, center-mounted tailpipe and 17-inch BBS wheels. There’s also a black spoiler.
Inside, the driver and front passenger are treated to specially designed front seats. As for touch points, the steering wheel is shared with the GT86 sports car and the pedals are dressed up with aluminum covers.
The Toyota Yaris GRMN performance hatchback will first go on sale in Europe starting early next year.
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