Reuniting with the GRMN Yaris: Anticipation for Full-Throttle Driving

I had the opportunity to test drive the Toyota GRMN Yaris once again.

During my previous drive, the car was brand new and still in the break-in period, so I was limited to engine speeds between 3000 and 4000 rpm. Even then, I was impressed by its powerful performance, solid chassis, and excellent handling.

限定500台のトヨタ・GRMNヤリスに試乗｜ポルシェ乗りが乗るとどう感じた？

This time, with the break-in period over, I was invited by the owner to push it to the limit.

Having been moved by Toyota’s ability to build such a car last time, I had high expectations for this full-throttle run.

Remarkable Engine Performance: Acceleration Comparable to a GT3

To put it simply, I can confidently say this engine is by far the best among Japanese cars.

What stands out is how the engine revs and its final surge. Watching the tachometer needle, the last 1000 rpm accelerate exponentially, evoking the same feeling as a Porsche GT3 engine.

The response is fantastic; a light throttle blip smoothly raises the revs to the desired level. Unlike typical Japanese sports car engines that feel sluggish in their rev-up, the GRMN Yaris engine delivers a sharp, awakening surge.

Both torque and power feel more than sufficient, and switching to sport mode further accentuates these characteristics.

Handling Very Similar to Porsche: Outstanding Suspension

Matching the impressive engine, the suspension is also exceptional.

It’s certainly on the stiff side; smooth roads pose no problem, but on slightly uneven surfaces, the ride can feel a bit shaky. However, this is to be expected for a car in this class.

What you gain in return is superb responsiveness and steering feedback. When entering a corner, the behavior is distinctive: the initial turn-in feels somewhat gentle, but once a certain angle is reached, it snaps sharply like folding paper. This characteristic felt very similar to Porsche’s steering feel, quite unlike Italian sports cars.

The stability and lack of slip mid-corner are outstanding, almost like a race car.
As I mentioned in a previous article, ‘I’ve come to feel it’s closer in spirit to the 964 Cup car or the 997 GT3 I drove before.’ This impression remains unchanged, and I strongly felt the uncompromising craftsmanship of the development team.

Also notable is that despite being all-wheel drive, it drives as nimbly as an FF or FR car. Yet, it retains the AWD trait of pushing hard out of corners, providing great confidence. Truly remarkable.

Circuit-Focused Setup: Challenges on Public Roads

On the other hand, the suspension feels too stiff for mountain roads and everyday driving.

Especially on bumpy surfaces, it tends to bounce a bit, and there were moments I wished the tires stayed more connected to the road. This clearly shows it’s a circuit-oriented setup.

From my experience, this GRMN Yaris suspension is even stiffer than a Porsche GT3’s PASM in sport mode. The car’s light weight might contribute, but it’s safe to say the setup is fully focused on the track.

If you aim for speed on public roads, a slightly softer damping setting might be better.

However, for competitions like gymkhana, this setup would be a formidable weapon. It feels more suited to modern circuits than rough, bumpy tracks like the Nürburgring.

Meticulous Attention to Detail

It also features auto-blip on downshifts, which, while not as flashy as Porsche’s, matches revs well and makes driving very smooth.

Regarding gear ratios, 2nd and 3rd gears seem set slightly lower compared to Porsches and others. This suits Japanese road conditions well and is ideal for keeping the engine revving.

The interior is very Spartan. There are no rear seats, and full bucket seats make getting in a bit of a challenge. However, these elements fit the car’s concept and actually enhance the fun.

Room for Improvement: Lack of Emotional Sound

One area that could be improved is the engine sound.

While the volume is sufficient, it mainly features low to mid tones, and I’d like to hear more high-frequency sounds. Considering how imported cars can be louder, I feel there’s room for creative tuning within regulations. It’s a shame that, true to Japanese manufacturers, it’s kept too safe out of excessive caution.

The engine noise mainly comes from behind, but if the high tones were emphasized more and tuned to appeal emotionally, driving enjoyment would increase. The turbine sound is also audible from the rear, but refining the overall sound could create an emotional driving experience that rivals imports.

Overall, the GRMN Yaris is already top-class in performance. By further enhancing the emotional driving feel, it has the potential to become the perfect Japanese sports car. Knowing Toyota can build such a car, I strongly hope they will bring more exciting cars to market in the future.

The GRMN Yaris can be said to stand at the pinnacle of Japanese hot hatches, or even Japanese sports cars.

Its performance rivals imported cars and even surpasses them in some respects. Engine performance, handling, and overall balance are truly astonishing.
However, despite bearing the Yaris name, there are some minor issues for daily use, so prospective buyers should consider these points. Still, if you pursue pure driving pleasure, the GRMN Yaris is undoubtedly one of the best choices.