Toyota has unveiled a limited-edition variant of the GR Yaris, paying homage to its storied history in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition, reserved exclusively for the Italian market, celebrates 51 years since Toyota’s first WRC victory in 1973. Only 51 units will be produced, marking each year since this historic milestone, according to Carscoops.com.
The GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition’s design is inspired by Toyota’s iconic rally car, the Corolla 1600 Coupe, which secured the manufacturer’s maiden WRC win at the 1973 Press On Regardless Rally in Michigan, USA. Its striking red decals over the white bodywork mirror the classic livery, giving the modern hatch a distinctly rally-inspired aesthetic.
Aside from its eye-catching exterior, the TGR Italy Limited Edition features unique badging both inside and out. Each model will carry a TGR Italy emblem on the body and a numbered plaque in the cabin, highlighting its exclusivity. The hot hatch sits on 18-inch forged wheels, finished in a distinctive Heritage Gold, paired with high-performance Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R semi-slick tyres, underscoring its motorsport credentials.
For added convenience and safety, this special edition comes with the Tech Package as standard. This includes parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking, enhancing the car’s day-to-day usability.
Under the bonnet, the GR Yaris remains unchanged, powered by the same turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine found in the facelifted EU-spec model. It delivers a punchy 276 bhp (206 kW / 280 PS) to all four wheels through the rally-bred GR-Four system. Unlike other variants, the TGR Italy Limited Edition is equipped exclusively with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, providing rapid shifts and an engaging driving experience.
The GR Yaris TGR Italy Limited Edition will be available for pre-order via Toyota’s Italian website from 9 September, with a price tag of €67,500 (£58,000). Deliveries are expected by the end of 2024. Securing one of these highly sought-after models requires a €2,500 (£2,140) deposit, which also grants buyers an array of perks, including a test ride with the race car, two VIP passes for the 2025 TGR Italy season, a bespoke car cover, and Gazoo Racing sportswear.
