Toyota Yaris GRMN – Gazoo Racing turns Toyota tot into a bit of an animal - Engine and gearbox
Bespoke supermini isn’t cheap (and is sold out), but it delivers raw and undiluted thrills that are missing from many in the class.
Engine and gearbox
The Yaris GRMN is in many ways defined by its ‘2ZR’ 1.8-litre supercharged engine. It’s a type of powerplant unique in the current hot match market, and while it uses forced induction its throttle response is superior to that of rivals that are all turbocharged. It’s powerful, too, with a peak output of 209bhp and a slightly less impressive 184lb ft maximum torque output developed at a high 5000rpm.
Considerable work was needed to fit the big unit in the nose of the Yaris, with many of the challenges revolving around heat management and maintaining emissions compliance. The Magnusson-Eaton supercharger, its intercooler, and the air intake, are packaged as one, slotting down into the front of the engine bay. The exhaust was a particular headache, as there was no provision for the necessary shape and diameter of a performance pipe with the standard Yaris underfloor.
The only transmission option is a six-speed manual with a close ratio gearset. This drives the front-wheels through a Torsen limited slip differential.
