New Toyota GR Yaris to make its public debut at Goodwood Speed Week

The new Toyota GR Yaris will make its public debut at Goodwood Speed Week later this month, driven by Welsh rally star Elfyn Evans.

The small hot hatch has been developed using technology from Evans’ Yaris WRC race car, but adapted for road use.

Its 1.6-litre turbocharged engine makes 257bhp and 370Nm of torque, with power routed through a bespoke four-wheel-drive system. Weighing just 1,280kg, it delivers true sports car performance, with a 0-60mph time of 5.3 seconds.

Production began in September at a new facility in Japan, where vehicles are built in individual assembly cells rather than a traditional conveyor belt system. Toyota says this method of working allows it to build the cars more accurately.

Order books are open now, with the first customer deliveries expected in November.

Following the cancellation of the Goodwood Members’ Meeting, Revival and Festival of Speed this year, the West Sussex estate is hosting its first online-only event. It will be streaming two ‘Super Special’ rally stages that have been built on the Goodwood Motor Circuit and its surroundings.

The Northern and Southern loops use the track itself, the infield area, the perimeter road, and the main vehicle tunnel.

Evans, who is currently leading the World Rally Championship, will be running the Toyota GR Yaris across the 15th and 16th October.