TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) has been an active participant in various motorsport championships, including the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), and the FIA World Rally Raid Championship (W2RC). The team has consistently showcased its commitment to motorsport excellence through the GR Yaris Rally1 hybrid, the GR010 hybrid, and the DKR Hilux EVO T1U. In tandem with these endeavors, TGR has also focused on customer motorsports by developing the GR Supra GT4.
Photo: TOYOTA GAZOO RACING
TGR is introducing the GR Yaris Rally2, a rallying powerhouse designed specifically for customer use. This marks a significant step in Chairman Akio Toyoda’s vision, popularly known as ‘Morizo,’ to bridge the gap between motorsport and production vehicles, potentially elevating the global rally market.
Photo: TOYOTA GAZOO RACING
With the homologation certificate’s acquisition, the GR Yaris Rally2 distribution is set to commence globally. The inaugural unit will be delivered to ROOKIE Racing, led by Morizo. Furthermore, four teams are poised to showcase the capabilities of the GR Yaris Rally2 at the upcoming Rallye Monte-Carlo from January 25-28.
Photo: TOYOTA GAZOO RACING
Distinguished as Toyota’s first exclusive four-wheel-drive sports car in two decades, the GR Yaris was initially conceived by TGR with the primary objective of triumphing in the WRC. In a departure from a vehicle tailored solely for TGR’s victories, the GR Yaris Rally2 is engineered with a customer-centric approach, inaugurating a new era of challenges.
Photo: TOYOTA GAZOO RACING
The GR Yaris Rally2 made its public debut at Rally Japan in 2022, with Morizo personally testing and evaluating its performance. Subsequently, the vehicle underwent rigorous testing, accumulating over 15,000 competition kilometers, including participation in the Japanese Rally Championship. Valuable insights from professional drivers, emerging talents, and seasoned customer drivers have been incorporated into the development process. Looking ahead, a diverse range of feedback from customer motorsport competitors, particularly in WRC championships, will contribute to continuous enhancements, epitomizing Toyota’s commitment to the pursuit of crafting ever-improved cars.
