Few efficiency automobiles have captured the eye of automobile lovers in 2020 fairly just like the Toyota GR Yaris. Even much less have been so divisive, with some reviewers panning it – like JDM Masters (see the review here), whereas others are commending it, as is the case with this take a look at by Jonny Smith from The Lake Brake Present who just lately had the chance to place one by means of its paces within the UK.

Nevertheless, there could be an evidence to that, as identified by CarAdvice, which seen that the majority, if not all optimistic evaluations examined the higher-spec GR Yaris with the limited-slip entrance and rear differentials, higher Michelin tires and lighter wheels, bought underneath totally different names, relying available on the market, together with Observe Pack within the UK and Rallye in Australia. JDM Masters, then again, apparently drove the usual GR Yaris with out these goodies that appear to make a giant distinction.

Based on this reviewer, not solely does the GR Yaris (alongside the GR Supra) signify an thrilling return to efficiency autos for the Japanese automaker, however it’s also a correct driver-focused machine that’s been born out of the World Rally Championship.

Watch Additionally: Discover What The New 268 HP Toyota GR Yaris Is Like On The Track

Whereas typical scorching hatches such because the Honda Civic Kind R, Renault Megane RS and Hyundai i30 N are efficiency variants of peculiar fashions, the GR Yaris is just a little totally different. Positive, you may be forgiven for pondering it’s merely a Yaris with a brand new powertrain and bodykit, however it’s way more than that.

As Smith factors out in his take a look at, the physique of the GR Yaris is all new and the roof is 91 mm decrease than the usual five-door mannequin. In truth, solely the headlights and taillights are shared with lesser variations. It’s such a major improve over the common mannequin that Toyota says it takes 10 instances longer to construct it.

Powering the automobile is a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder that pumps out 257 hp and 265 lb-ft (360 Nm) of torque. The instance examined right here is supplied with the out there Circuit Pack that features 18-inch solid alloy wheels, a performance-oriented suspension setup and limited-slip Torsen differentials on the entrance and rear axles.

Throughout his assessment, Smith feedback on the superb engine and notes that the automobile has excellent grip, nice steering, and an ideal pedal setup for heel and toe shifting.