In the course of heated global competition over developing next-generation cars such as self-driving automobiles and electric vehicles, Toyota Motor Corp. launched a new sports car brand today inspired by its proficiency in motor sports.
The launch of the GR brand today is a big step in that direction. Named after the Toyota Gazoo Racing division, GR range kicks off with a lineup of seven models – each receiving various degrees of aesthetic and mechanical upgrades.
The range starts with the GR Sport variants, which accepts exterior and interior modifications, plus retuned suspensions. Sitting in the middle of the range are the GR models that are more alert on suspension and powertrain tweaks, whereas the range-topping Gazoo Racing Masters of Nürburgring (GRMN) cars gain a more powerful engine. There will also be a GR Parts catalogue for existing Toyota owners.
At launch, buyers can choose from Yaris, Prius PHV, Mark X, Harrier, Noah and Voxy GR Sport models plus the Yaris GR. Excluding the aforesaid additions shared by all GR Sport models, the Yaris, Mark X and Harrier GR Sport also gets extra spot welding points to increase body firmness, and all but the Yaris GR Sport gain bracing as well.
For the time being, the Yaris GR take delivery of Sachs dampers, aluminum pedals, a small-diameter steering wheel from the 86 and a 10-speed transmission mode in CVT-equipped models. Also equipped are 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires.
