Toyota Gazoo Racing has surprised the world of motorsport with one of the most ambitious presentations of recent times: the GR Yaris M Concept. This prototype, recently exhibited at the Tokyo Motor Show, takes the impressive Toyota GR Yaris offering to the extreme by incorporating a 2.0-liter turbocharged mid-engine that could reach up to 600 CV in its most powerful version. This model is not only a demonstration of the Japanese brand's technical capabilities, but also an experiment that anticipates the arrival of future iconic sports cars, such as the long-awaited MR2.
The Toyota GR Yaris is already known for being one of the most radical hatchbacks on the market, but this new version takes it to a whole new level. The original three-cylinder engine has been replaced by a turbocharged 1.8 L engine. four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine, positioned behind the front seatsThis change not only completely alters its driving dynamics but also brings it closer to the world of mid-engine sports cars, a territory historically reserved for elite vehicles such as the Ferrari 488 or McLaren 720S.
The Toyota GR Yaris M Concept is a laboratory on wheels…
Gazoo Racing described the Toyota GR Yaris M Concept as a "mobile laboratory." This model is specifically designed to test the limits of the new engine, which will not only equip the next racing vehicles, but also promises to revolutionize street models. Toyota has confirmed that the engine will be able to offer various power configurations, starting with 400 CV for its most accessible versions and reaching up to 600 CV in its competition variant.
In terms of design, the vehicle features details typical of a racing car: a carbon fiber rear spoiler, structural reinforcements and semi-slick tyres mounted on specific rims, adapted to withstand the demands of the circuit. In addition, the rear door has large vents that improve engine cooling, something key when we are talking about a car created to participate in competitions such as the Super Taikyu Series.
Direct relationship with the future MR2
Rumors about the return of the Toyota MR2 have intensified in recent months, and the GR Yaris M Concept seems to give them more resonance. The central engine configuration and the technical specifications of the new engine suggest that Toyota is using this prototype as a test mule to test the sports car that will hit the streets in the coming years. According to unofficial statements, the next MR2 will adopt an adapted version of this engine, offering performance that could position it as a true rival for models such as the Porsche 718 cayman.
Addition MR2, it seems that Toyota is also developing this engine for future models such as the Celica, which confirms the Japanese brand's commitment to keeping its most iconic sports cars alive. The most interesting thing about this engine is its versatility and adaptation to the use of renewable fuels, something that could guarantee the viability of internal combustion engines in a global scenario where electrification is advancing by leaps and bounds.
New aerodynamic advances
Toyota GR Yaris Aero Package
El GR Yaris M Concept Gazoo Racing not only stands out for what it has under the hood, but also for its aerodynamic evolution. Gazoo Racing has worked with professional drivers to develop an aerodynamic package that maximizes performance on the track. Among its most striking features is a adjustable angle rear spoiler and an optimized ventilation system that significantly improves stability and cooling in extreme driving conditions.
As if that were not enough, Toyota also presented at the same stand the GR Yaris Aero Package, another conceptual version equipped with up to six latest-generation aerodynamic components. This model seeks to take the aerodynamics and aesthetics of the Yaris to a higher level, with elements such as a ventilated hood, vertical handbrake and additional ventilation areas in the rear bumper. Some of these improvements are likely to end up being an available option for future buyers of the GR Racing.
Testing in extreme conditions
The real purpose of the GR Yaris M Concept It is clear: Toyota has designed it to be subjected to extreme conditions. This prototype will participate in endurance races such as the Super Taikyu Series from Japan, where it will be tested to the limit by experienced drivers, including the legendary AkioToyoda ("Morizo"). These competitions not only allow the evaluation of the car's mechanics and aerodynamics, but also generate crucial data that will be used in the development of future production models.
These tests could also be extended to other world-renowned circuits, such as the famous Nurburgring, where Toyota has already conducted numerous evaluations of its sports vehicles. In fact, it would not be surprising if this GR Yaris M Concept will be seen at the “Green Hell” in the coming months, testing its performance capabilities on one of the most demanding circuits in the world.
El Toyota GR Yaris M Concept Toyota is much more than just a concept car. It combines technical advances, radical design and a clear vision of the future to position itself as a milestone in Toyota's strategy. As testing and development continue, it is clear that this small but powerful car will set the trend in compact sports cars and serve as the basis for the return of icons such as the MR2.
Source - Toyota
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