Toyota has extended the reach of its 260hp Yaris GR by adding lower-spec and track-ready versions to the range in Japan. The latter, called the RC, gets the same turbocharged 1.6-litre triple as the launch model, but in a paired-back body to save weight. While the former, named the RS, is offered with a 1.5-litre three-pot-powered CVT transmission for those who prefer all show and no go.
At the business end of the range, the RC, which uses the same all-wheel drive hardware and six-speed manual as the familiar Yaris GR RZ, sounds very PH indeed. With “all equipment unnecessary for driving” such as the infotainment screen having been “removed in pursuit of lighter weight”, it’s a Japanese take on Renault Sport’s old 275 Trophy-R formula. Toyota says the model has been created as a base for competitors to use on track, although there’s no mention of the RC losing its road-legal status.
Compared to the 1,280kg RZ, the RC sheds a not insignificant 30kg. That helps its power-to-weight jump to 208hp per tonne, which in a car with a four-wheel drive system and tightly stacked six-speed ‘box, should make it feel really rather eager. It’s got 5mm wider tracks front and rear thanks to 17-inch rims (rather than the RZ’s 18s) and wider boots, too. And don’t forget, the Yaris GR comes as standard with several weight reducing and centre of gravity lowering features, including an aluminium bonnet, boot and doors, and a carbon fibre-reinforced plastic roof panel.
Toyota has been buoyed by demand of its Yaris in Japan and Europe; combined orders for both markets is said to exceed 6,000 units. Despite Europe’s role in garnering sales, a UK spokesperson told PH that neither the lightened RC, nor lower-powered RS are set to be offered here. Which is a shame, given how partial the nation is to JDM products - and how well established the market is for paired-back homologation specials. Not to mention cheap-to-run warm hatches.
The example of that in the Yaris range, the 1.5-litre-powered RS pictured here, has 120hp and front-wheel drive. The smaller motor and reduce driveline does, however, ensure it tips scales at only 1,130kg. With a CVT in the middle, focus is clearly on providing efficiency rather than outright performance - even if Toyota does promise the fitment of a special launch gear to get it off the line quickly and simulated 10-speed gearbox feel via paddle shifters. Don't expect to see a whole heap of those imported. But the RC has future JDM classic written all over it.
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