KATHMANDU: Toyota has officially introduced its high-performance sports car, the Toyota GR Yaris, in the Nepali market. The model has been brought in by United Traders Syndicate, the authorized distributor of Toyota vehicles in Nepal.
The GR Yaris is a motorsport-focused performance hatchback first launched globally in 2020. It has been continuously refined through extensive testing in rally and racing environments, including development influenced by the World Rally Championship (WRC).
Unlike conventional sports cars that are adapted for racing after road development, the GR Yaris was engineered from the outset for competitive rally use. The latest version incorporates multiple upgrades derived from real-world motorsport experience.
The car is powered by a 1.6-liter, three-cylinder turbocharged engine. Despite its compact size, it is regarded as one of the most powerful three-cylinder engines in production, delivering around 300 horsepower. It is available with both a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The GR Yaris features Toyota’s GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system, which allows variable torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. This improves stability and control across different road conditions, including slippery and uneven terrain.
To reduce weight, the vehicle uses lightweight materials such as a carbon fiber roof and aluminum doors. This contributes to improved acceleration, handling and cornering performance.
Given Nepal’s terrain, which includes hilly roads and sharp turns, a compact and high-performance vehicle like the GR Yaris is expected to offer strong driving dynamics and control.
