Next-generation Toyota Yaris has been revealed in a pumped up state before its official debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show. This high-performance Yaris takes its cues from Toyota’s ‘Gazoo” WRC teaser that was released in December last year. The top of the line Yaris is expected to be powered by an engine producing more than 210bhp.
According to the manufacturer, the hot version of Yaris will forge a link between the Yaris WRC and the standard road-going model range. Based on the three-door variant of the new Yaris, the hot version gets an aggressive front bumper with Toyota’s new X-motif while the rear bumper gets an integrated rectangular exhaust tip, placed at the centre. The contrasting rear spoiler shows its performance intentions, while the blacked out multi spoke alloys suits the car well. The liveries on the sides are reminiscent of Toyota’s WRC cars of yesteryears.
Toyota hasn’t disclosed any powertrain details or which engine will be powering the 210bhp version of the Yaris, but the rally-derived 1.6-litre engine with all-wheel-drive is the best bet. Toyota might even take a modest route and plonk a tuned version of the 1.5-litre engine sending power to the front wheels in this hot Yaris. The Yaris supermini will rival a number of hot hatches which includes the Volkswagen Polo GTI, Ford Fiesta ST, Renault Clio 200 and Peugeot 208 GTI.
Toyota is all set to return to WRC at the treacherous Monte Carlo Rally this year after a break of 17 years. Expect the Rally-spec Yaris to make its debut there, while the high-performance Yaris will share the spotlight with the new Yaris WRC at the Geneva Motor Show in March.
