Toyota is spreading its motor sport wings following up on the success of the already launched GR (Gazoo Racing) models such as the Yaris, with ready-to-race cars for customers participating in GT3 (which is the pinnacle of customer motor sports).
As was the case with the GR Yaris, by commercialising race cars rather than simply adapting production vehicles for use in motor sport, Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) intends to use feedback and technologies refined through participation in various motor sport activities to develop both GT3 and mass-production cars.
GRMN Yaris
Following on the very successful GR Yaris, Toyota has pulled the covers off an even 'hotter' version; the GRMN. Meaning, Gazoo Racing tuned by “Meister of Nürburgring” GRMN models represent the top tier in the Gazoo Racing pyramid and embodies the 'total tuning concept'.
The development of the GRMN Yaris began from the company’s desire to "deliver cars to customers that evolve quickly and can be tailored to individuals like in the field of motorsports."
Using lessons learned from competition, body rigidity has been enhanced, weight has been reduced, overall width has been increased for aerodynamic improvement, while vehicle height has been reduced for a lower centre of gravity.
The GR Yaris has evolved into a car that can be driven faster and with more peace of mind, with improved braking force, grip, cornering and acceleration, based on feedback from professional drivers.
The GRMN Yaris features a close-ratio gear transmission and a low final gear set while mechanical LSD's (front and rear) replace the Torsen versions in the GR Yaris. A reinforced metal-matrix clutch has also been incorporated.
In addition to the lightweight high-rigidity carbon (twill weave CFRP) is used for the bonnet, roof, and rear spoiler. Removing the rear seats to make it a strict two-seater and contributes to a weight reduction of approximately 20 kg compared to the GR Yaris.
Engine power remains at 200 kW (Japanese specification), with Torque boosted by 20 Nm to 390.
The GRMN Yaris offers race-car like enjoyment while being able to tailor the vehicle to suit the owners’ preference and vehicle usage. Two bespoke packages are offered, a Circuit Pack and Rally Pack, each customised to extract maximum performance from the GRMN Yaris in the discipline chosen.
Circuit Package:
- BBS GRMN-specific 18-inch wheels
- 18-inch brakes
- Bilstein shock absorber with adjustable damping force
- Carbon (twill weave CFRP) Rear spoiler
- Side skirt
- Lip spoiler
Rally Package:
- GR shock absorber & short stabiliser link set
- GR under guard set
- GR roll bar (with side bar)
The GRMN Yaris is currently only available in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) with a limited production run of 500 units. Interested customers are invited to register for the GRMN Yaris Lottery, to win a chance to purchase one of these exclusive models - making the GRMN a rare breed.
