TOYOTA has introduced an thrilling improve for its hard-charging GR Yaris on the Tokyo Auto Salon this week, upping the ability and torque, revising the cockpit format, and introducing an eight-speed DirectShift automated transmission.
Beforehand supplied solely with a six-speed guide gearbox, the GR Yaris will now provide what Toyota says is “broader enchantment for driving fans”, including that the transmission has been developed via “hardcore use in skilled motorsport”.
Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Staff drivers put the transmission via its paces on a variety of street surfaces, together with these encountered within the Japanese Rally Championship and Toyota Gazoo Racing Problem underneath the ethos of “breaking and fixing” to “make the transmission as sturdy and dependable as potential”.
In accordance with Toyota, the brand new transmission’s management software program has been optimised for dynamic driving, “delicately sensing the driving force’s operation of the accelerator and brakes to anticipate gear shifts” and offering “extremely quick and intuitive shifting”.
The 8AT has been constructed utilizing highly-heat-resistant friction materials within the clutch and options shut gear ratios to take advantage of the engine’s enhanced energy band.
Complementing the introduction of the automated transmission is a rise in energy and torque for the three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, the 1.6-litre unit now providing 224kW at 6500rpm (+24kW) and 400Nm from 3250-4600rpm (+30Nm) – regardless of which transmission is chosen.
Energy continues to drive all 4 wheels through a selectable torque distribution system that includes a brand new drive mode choice system Toyota says, “alter the digital energy steering, air-conditioning, and powertrain settings in accordance with consumer preferences”.
Minor enhancements have been made to the visible look of the Toyota GR Yaris inside and outside, together with the canting of the dashboard and infotainment array towards the driving force by 15 levels to help operability.
Toyota says it has additionally enhanced the protection of the GR Yaris with further energetic security options and Toyota Linked Companies for larger occupant safety.
Extra particulars shall be introduced nearer to the mannequin’s Australian launch within the second half of 2024.