Amid heated global competition over developing next-generation cars such as self-driving automobiles and electric vehicles, Toyota Motor Corp. unveiled a new sports car brand today inspired by its expertise in motor sports.
The launch of the GR brand today is a big step in that direction. Named after the Toyota Gazoo Racing division, GR range kicks off with a lineup of seven models – each receiving various degrees of aesthetic and mechanical upgrades.
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The range starts with the GR Sport variants, which receive exterior and interior modifications, plus retuned suspensions. Sitting in the middle of the range are the GR models that are more focused on suspension and powertrain tweaks, while the range-topping Gazoo Racing Masters of Nürburgring (GRMN) cars gain a more powerful engine. There will also be a GR Parts catalogue for existing Toyota owners.
At launch, buyers can choose from Yaris, Prius PHV, Mark X, Harrier, Noah and Voxy GR Sport models as well as the Yaris GR. Aside from the aforementioned additions shared by all GR Sport models, the Yaris, Mark X and Harrier GR Sport also gets additional spot welding points to increase body rigidity, and all but the Yaris GR Sport gain bracing as well.
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Meanwhile, the Yaris GR receives Sachs dampers, aluminum pedals, a small-diameter steering wheel from the 86 and a 10-speed transmission mode in CVT-equipped models. Also equipped are 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires.
Toyota also has another few cars lined up for release at the end of the year, including the Prius c and v GR Sport, as well as an 86 GR that gets 17-inch Rays alloy wheels, Sachs dampers, Recaro seats, six-piston front brake calipers and a Torsion limited slip differential.
Lastly, the Yaris GRMN will finally make its way to Japan in the spring. The car is identical to its European counterpart with its 210 PS 1.8 liter supercharged engine and six-speed manual gearbox, but will also come with a more aggressive front bumper design from the Yaris GR and GR Sport.
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The Yaris GR Sport will be offered in standard 109 PS 1.5 liter petrol form with either a five-speed manual transmission or a CVT, as well as a 74 PS Hybrid; the GR is only available with the petrol mill. Meanwhile, the Harrier GR Sport comes with either a 151 PS 2.0 liter naturally aspirated engine and a CVT, or a 231 PS turbo mill paired to a six-speed automatic.
Buyers of the Mark X GR Sport can choose between 203 PS 2.5 liter and 318 PS 3.5 liter V6 mills, both paired to a six-speed automatic, while the Noah and Voxy GR Sport is powered solely by a 152 PS 2.0 liter four-pot and a six-speed auto.
From Paultan
Toyota Yaris GR and GR Sport
Toyota Prius PHV GR Sport
Toyota Harrier GR Sport
Toyota Mark X GR Sport
Toyota Noah and Voxy GR Sport
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
