Used Toyota GR Yaris
Back in 2020, when the pandemic stopped the whole world, Toyota got busy developing a new rally homologation special that could help them win the WRC (World Rally Championship). This car turned out to be based on the regular Yaris (with which it shares little), with a Frankenstein short wheelbase chassis and body made out of carbon fibre and aluminium resulting in a kerb weight of just 1,280kg.
Powering this rally special is a bespoke G16E-GTS 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine developing 260hp and 360Nm of torque to all four corners, thanks to Toyota’s electronically controlled GR-FOUR all-wheel drive system with three driving modes – Normal, Track and Sport. It is one of the most hyped performance cars of recent times, as it punches way above its weight. A true driver’s tool, the car was developed by Toyota’s rally department in collaboration with Tommi Makinen, one of the most respected rally drivers of all time.
As a used purchase, the GR Yaris offers something that cannot be found elsewhere. It is a true all-weather, all-purpose fun car that can do it all. Used prices hover around the £25,000 - £30,000 for the first-generation models while it breaches $40,000 for the Gen 2 GR Yaris. These prices could go up in the future, considering the cult following.
Pros
Rally car for the road
Trick AWD system
Explosive engine
Cons
Gen 2 is expensive than before
Not very practical
Cramped rear seats