Toyota introduces a sports hatchback with a mid-engine layout, featuring a powerful turbocharged engine!
In a significant move towards high-output, lightweight performance cars, Toyota has unveiled a new mid-engine GR Yaris concept featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This engine, known as the G20E, is a key development derived from the GA-C platform and is expected to produce up to 600 horsepower, significantly eclipsing the current 1.6-liter turbocharged G16E-GTS inline-3 in the production GR Yaris, which generates around 300 hp.
The GR Yaris M Concept, currently in the testing and refinement phase, showcases a mid-engine layout and is expected to feature Toyota's GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, consistent with its rally-bred heritage and recent GR models. The car is anticipated to have transmission options including a six-speed manual and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic, similar to the GR Corolla and current GR Yaris models.
While official production release dates have not been disclosed, the GR Yaris M Concept is expected to roll out progressively. There are rumors of the G20E engine potentially being used in multiple models, including a possible mid-engined GR Celica, which may blur the lines between the Celica and an MR2 revival, or a combined project involving these models.
The 2025 Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance, with a 1.6-liter turbo inline-3 producing 300 hp, serves as a reference point for the current production model. However, this is distinct from the mid-engine concept with the 2.0-liter turbo.
This powertrain marks a substantial leap in Toyota's performance-focused small cars, aiming to compete with much larger engines and offering a versatile platform for future sports car applications. The new GR Yaris, if the rumors are true, could potentially be capable of producing over 600 hp, making it a potential giant-slayer in the automotive industry.
The GR Yaris M Concept is expected to make its mark in motorsport testing, preparing the platform and powertrain for future production vehicles. The new engine will be used in the GR Yaris, the M Concept, and will compete in the Super Taikyu racing series. A prototype aero package for the GR Yaris was displayed at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, further hinting at the car's racing capabilities.
Additionally, Toyota unveiled a software upgrade for the GR86 that improves accelerator response and downshifts in manual cars. Motorsports parts for both the GR86 and GR Yaris were displayed and can be purchased separately. The new GR Yaris is also rumored to feature double-wishbone suspension.
The new engine, the 2.0-liter I-4, is a more compact, efficient, and powerful alternative to the 2.4-liter turbo engine family. Unlike the current GR Yaris, the new car will have the new I-4 engine and its transaxle placed in the back, with the rear differential in the nose compartment.
This new engine, first discussed in May, is a high-performance turbo gas engine, which Toyota is revealing first in a midship configuration. The rear chassis of the new GR Yaris is derived from Toyota's GA-C platform, similar to the Prius.
The new GR Yaris's mid-engine configuration could be a potential indicator of future American-market products. Japanese media outlets report that the new GR Yaris will feature double-wishbone suspension.
In conclusion, Toyota's new mid-engine GR Yaris concept with a high-performance 2.0-liter turbocharged engine represents a significant step forward in the company's performance-focused small cars. With potential outputs up to 600 hp, the new GR Yaris could potentially revive rumors of the return of the Celica or MR2, and serve as a potential giant-slayer in the automotive industry.
- The new GR Yaris concept, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, showcases Toyota's ambition to produce high-output, lightweight performance cars.
- The GR Yaris M Concept is expected to feature the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, aligning it with Toyota's rally-bred heritage.
- The G20E engine, derived from the GA-C platform, is expected to be used in multiple models, including a potential mid-engined GR Celica, blurring lines between Celica and an MR2 revival.
- The new GR Yaris, with a potential output of over 600 hp, could serve as a giant-slayer in the automotive industry, competing with much larger engines.
- The GR Yaris M Concept is anticipated to make its mark in motorsport testing, preparing for future production vehicles and competing in the Super Taikyu racing series.
- Toyota's new engine, the 2.0-liter I-4, is a more compact, efficient, and powerful alternative to the 2.4-liter turbo engine family, with potential applications in multiple models.
- The software upgrade for the GR86 aims to improve accelerator response and downshifts in manual cars, while motorsport parts for both the GR86 and GR Yaris can be purchased separately.
- The new GR Yaris's mid-engine configuration could be a potential indicator of future American-market products, with double-wishbone suspension expected to be featured.
- The new mid-engine GR Yaris concept represents a significant step forward in Toyota's performance-focused small cars, potentially reviving rumors of the return of the Celica or MR2.
