The Toyota Yaris GRMN (Gazoo Racing Meister of the Nürburgring) is a high-performance variant of the Toyota Yaris, specifically the third generation (XP130) model. Introduced in 2018 as a limited-production run, the GRMN was designed to offer a more engaging driving experience than the standard Yaris. While the Yaris itself is a globally sold supermini, the GRMN variant was primarily aimed at the European market, capitalizing on the demand for compact, sporty hatchbacks. It represented Toyota’s increasing commitment to performance vehicles under the Gazoo Racing banner, drawing on lessons learned from motorsports, particularly at the famed Nürburgring circuit.
Toyota Yaris GRMN: A Performance-Focused Supermini
The Yaris GRMN distinguishes itself from the standard Yaris through significant mechanical upgrades and a focus on weight reduction. It wasn’t simply a cosmetic enhancement; Toyota engineers actively reworked key components to improve handling, acceleration, and overall driver enjoyment. The GRMN served as a precursor to the even more radical Yaris GR (XP210), a dedicated rally-inspired homologation special that followed in 2020. The GRMN, however, remains a unique and sought-after model within the Yaris lineage.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Yaris GRMN lies a 1.8-liter (1798 cm3) inline-four cylinder engine, designated the 2ZR-FE. This engine is significantly upgraded from the standard Yaris powerplant, featuring a supercharger and intercooler to boost output to 212 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 249 Nm (183.65 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5000 rpm. The supercharger provides instant throttle response and a broad torque curve, enhancing drivability. Power per liter is an impressive 117.9 hp/l. The engine is paired with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, optimized for spirited driving. This combination allows the GRMN to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in approximately 6.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 230 km/h (142.92 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 5.4 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.6 kg/Nm further contribute to its agile performance.
Design & Features
The Yaris GRMN retains the basic hatchback body style of the standard Yaris, but with several visual and functional enhancements. It’s a three-door hatchback with seating for five. Key design features include a more aggressive front bumper, unique alloy wheels (17-inch), and a rear spoiler. The suspension is upgraded with stiffer springs and dampers, along with a front strut brace, to improve handling and reduce body roll. Brakes are upgraded to ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear, providing enhanced stopping power. Inside, the GRMN features sport seats, a unique steering wheel, and aluminum pedals. While not overtly luxurious, the interior focuses on providing a driver-centric environment. The kerb weight of 1135 kg (2502.25 lbs) is achieved through various weight-saving measures, contributing to the car’s nimble handling. Trunk space is 286 liters (10.1 cu. ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Yaris |
| Generation | Yaris III (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | GRMN 1.8 VVT-iE (212 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2018 |
| End of production | August, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 170 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 b |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 212 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Torque | 249 Nm @ 5000 rpm (183.65 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2ZR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 1798 cm3 (109.72 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, VVT-iE |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1135 kg (2502.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1545 kg (3406.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 410 kg (903.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 286 l (10.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3945 mm (155.31 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2510 mm (98.82 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tire size | 205/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Toyota Yaris GRMN, though short-lived, represents a significant step in Toyota’s renewed focus on performance. It offered a compelling blend of practicality, affordability, and driving enjoyment, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a unique and engaging supermini.
