GR Yaris Ogier and Rovanperä: special editions with 200 units sell out before their debut on the national market

Toyota Gazoo Racing, the high-performance division of the Japanese brand, announced the sale of 200 units of two special and highly coveted editions of the GR Yaris. Desenvolvidas to honor the multi-time world rally champions Sébastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanperä, the versions were limited to just 100 examples each, generating enormous interest in the international markets where they were made available.

These exclusive models were presented as a celebration of the drivers’ achievements in the Campeonato Mundial of Rali (WRC) and feature unique mechanical and visual adjustments, developed with the direct participation of Ogier and Rovanperä. The rapid sale reinforces the hot hatch’s status as an icon among automotive performance enthusiasts.

The arrival of these special series precedes the launch of the updated standard version of the GR

Edition Details Sébastien Ogier

The version that celebrates the French pilot Sébastien Ogier stands out for its sober and technical visual approach. The model is offered exclusively in matte gray “Matte Stealth Gray” and sports subtle França flag decals on the front fenders. At the rear, a new adjustable carbon fiber spoiler has been installed to optimize aerodynamics at high speeds. The interior follows the exclusivity with stitching in blue, white and red tones on the steering wheel and seats, as well as a numbered plate that identifies the unit.

The big difference, however, is in the calibration of the GR-Four all-wheel drive system. The Ogier edition has two exclusive driving modes: “Morizo” and “Seb”. The first, named after the pseudonym of Akio Toyoda, former president of Toyota, was adjusted to offer more neutral and consistent behavior in acceleration and braking. Já “Seb” mode prioritizes the rear axle, facilitating the rotation of the vehicle when entering curves and allowing more precise control for the driver, reflecting the technical driving style of the eight-time world champion.

The characteristics of version Kalle Rovanperä

In contrast to the sobriety of the Ogier edition, the model dedicated to the young two-time Finnish champion Kalle Rovanperä adopts a bold look directly inspired by the Toyota Gazoo Racing competition cars. The bodywork features an exclusive tricolor paintwork, combining shades of red, white and gray in a dynamic graphic. The design is complemented by a variable rear spoiler, similar to that used on the GRMN Yaris, and stickers that refer to the driver’s achievements.

This edition’s traction modes reflect the aggressive and spectacular riding style of Rovanperä. The “Kalle” mode has been calibrated to send more torque to the rear axle, facilitating drift maneuvers and car control on low-grip surfaces. The second mode, called “Donut”, was specifically designed to allow the vehicle to perform controlled rotations (“zeros”), locking the differential so that the rear slides in a predictable and constant manner, a maneuver often associated with the driver.

Updated engine and performance

Both special editions are based on the latest GR Yaris update, which has brought significant improvements to the mechanical package. The 1.6 three-cylinder turbo engine, known for its robustness and power generation capacity, has been recalibrated to deliver an impressive 304 horsepower and 40.8 kgfm of torque, a notable increase compared to the first generation of the model.

In addition to the traditional six-speed manual transmission, which continues to be the preferred choice of purists, the Toyota now offers a new eight-speed automatic transmission with torque converter. Desenvolvida for quick and efficient shifts, the automatic option allows a wider audience to enjoy the performance of the sports car without giving up comfort in daily use.

With this improved package, the GR Esses numbers put it on par with sports cars from higher categories, consolidating its reputation as a true “pocket rocket”.

Chassis and aerodynamics improvements

To cope with the increase in power, the structure of the GR Yaris has been significantly reinforced. The Toyota increased the number of welding points by 13% and applied 24% more structural adhesive to the entire body. Essas modifications have resulted in a substantial increase in torsional rigidity, which translates into more direct steering responses and greater cornering stability.

The suspension was also subject to a complete overhaul, with new springs and recalibrated shock absorbers. The objective was to improve body control and ensure that the tires maintain maximum contact with the ground, even under strong lateral acceleration. The attachment of the front shock absorbers to the chassis has been strengthened with additional screws.

The external design is not only aesthetic but also functional. The front bumper has been redesigned with larger openings to improve engine and brake cooling. At the rear, a new adjustable carbon fiber spoiler, present on special editions, contributes to increased downforce, ensuring greater safety at high speeds.

BBS brand 18-inch forged light alloy wheels equip the limited versions, contributing to the reduction of unsprung mass and improving the vehicle’s agility. The braking system, with ventilated discs and high-performance calipers, guarantees a deceleration capacity consistent with the engine’s performance.

Interior focused on the riding experience

The cabin of the GR Yaris has been redesigned based on feedback from professional drivers to create a completely driver-focused environment. The driver’s seat has been lowered by 25 millimeters to improve the center of gravity and visibility over the hood, while the steering wheel has been adjusted to a more ergonomic position. The instrument panel is now fully digital, with a 12.3-inch screen that offers “Normal” and “Sport” viewing modes, the latter displaying performance data clearly and objectively. The layout of controls has also been optimized; for example, the handbrake lever has been repositioned for easier use in rally maneuvers, and some switches have been moved closer to the driver, allowing them to be operated without taking attention away from the road. Detalhes like the aluminum pedals and the Alcantara coating on the steering wheel reinforce the sporting atmosphere and the connection between man and machine.

Expectations for arrival at Brasil

The Toyota of the Brasil has already officially confirmed that the GR

The price has not yet been defined, estimates indicate that the hot hatch should be positioned in a range above R$400,000, considering the tax burden and the product’s niche positioning. The brand’s dealership network is receiving specific training to deal with the sale and maintenance of the sports car, ensuring that owners have the appropriate technical support for a high-performance vehicle.

Availability and reception in the global market

The Ogier and Rovanperä editions were made available primarily in the Japanese and European markets, where demand far exceeded limited supply. No Japão, the models were sold through a lottery system, and resale prices are already reaching significantly higher values, highlighting the potential for appreciation as a collector’s item.