Used Toyota GR-Yaris: Buyer's Guide
The Toyota GR-Yaris is a true modern classic, offering the excitement of a rally car for the road. It delivers an unfiltered driving experience, backed by a potent 276bhp turbocharged engine and Toyota's world-renowned reliability. For the enthusiast seeking a car that makes every journey an event, the GR-Yaris is the perfect choice.
Used Toyota GR-Yaris Popular Trims
GR-Yaris: The standard car provides the phenomenal engine and all-wheel-drive system, alongside an 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and supportive Alcantara sports seats. It is a hugely capable car and a fantastic base for driving enjoyment.
Circuit Pack: This is the definitive specification for the GR-Yaris and the one we recommend. The addition of front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, stiffer track-tuned suspension, and lighter 18-inch forged alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres elevates the car's handling from brilliant to truly extraordinary. It is the purist's choice.
Used Toyota GR-Yaris Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options
1.6-Litre Turbo Petrol: The G16E-GTS engine is a masterpiece of modern engineering and the most powerful three-cylinder in the world. Early cars produce a formidable 257bhp, while the 2024 facelift boosts this to an even more potent 276bhp.
Recommendation: For the ultimate connection, the 6-speed manual is superb, but the new 8-speed automatic offers lightning-fast shifts.
Running Costs:
Expect real-world fuel economy of around 32-34 mpg. Road tax is higher due to emissions, and it falls into insurance groups 35-36.
Used Toyota GR-Yaris Practicality
The GR-Yaris is an uncompromising performance car where form follows function, but it is still easy to live with.
Boot Space: The 174-litre boot is a necessary compromise for the car's advanced suspension, but is ample for daily essentials or weekend bags.
Parking: As a compact hatchback, the GR-Yaris is wonderfully easy to park, aided by a standard reversing camera.
Focus: Every dimension is optimised for agility and performance, not for carrying passengers or luggage.
Used Toyota GR-Yaris Key Features
Key Features
1.6-Litre Turbocharged Engine
GR-FOUR Adjustable All-Wheel-Drive
Lightweight Aluminium and Carbon Fibre Body Panels
8-inch Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Smart Entry and Push-Button StartDesirable Options
Circuit Pack: Considered an essential option by most enthusiasts for unlocking the car's full dynamic potential.
Convenience Pack: Adds features like a premium 8-speaker JBL sound system, ambient lighting, and parking sensors.
8-Speed Automatic Transmission (2024 onwards): For those seeking the fastest possible shift times.
Used Toyota GR-Yaris Reliability Rating
Owning a GR-Yaris is a rewarding and worry-free experience, thanks to Toyota's world-class engineering and outstanding reputation for reliability.
What to Check on a Test Drive:
Service History: Verify a full and complete service history from a reputable dealer, ensuring it matches the manufacturer's schedule.
Engine Note: Listen for a clean, consistent engine note on idle and under load.
Gearbox Feel: The manual gearbox should have a precise, mechanical feel. Check for smooth engagement of all gears.
Tyre Condition: Check the condition of the tyres for even wear, a good indicator of correct alignment and considerate use.
Used Toyota GR-Yaris Safety Rating
Peace of mind comes as standard with the GR-Yaris. It was tested by Euro NCAP in 2020 and awarded a full 5-star rating, thanks to its strong, rigid chassis and a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies included in the Toyota Safety Sense package. Key features include a Pre-Collision System, Lane Trace Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
Awards for the Used Toyota GR-Yaris
What Car? Hot Hatch of the Year 2021
Top Gear Magazine Hot Hatch of the Year 2020
Evo Magazine Car of the Year 2020
UK Car of the Year 2021
Who is the Used Toyota GR-Yaris Best For?
Serious driving enthusiasts who prioritise handling and engagement above all else.
Collectors looking for a rare and iconic homologation special with strong resale values.
Drivers seeking the ultimate B-road performance car.
Key Alternatives to Consider:
For a different flavour of high-performance hatchback, you might also look at the Honda Civic Type R or the Hyundai i20 N.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Used Toyota GR-Yaris
How much is the annual road tax for a Toyota GR-Yaris?
The annual road tax for a Toyota GR-Yaris is determined by its CO2 emissions and its list price when new, placing it in a higher bracket consistent with performance vehicles.
First-Year Rate: Based on its CO2 emissions of around 197g/km, the initial VED payment is higher.
Standard Annual Rate: After the first year, a standard annual rate of £195 applies.
Luxury Car Supplement: As the GR-Yaris typically has a list price over £40,000, it is also subject to an additional supplement of £425 for five years.
What insurance group does the Toyota GR-Yaris fall into?
The Toyota GR-Yaris is placed in a higher insurance group, which is reflective of its specialist performance capabilities.
Insurance Group: It typically falls into groups 35 to 36 out of 50.
Influencing Factors: Your final premium will depend on personal factors like your age, driving history, and where you live.
Does the Toyota GR-Yaris hold its value well as a used car?
Yes, the Toyota GR-Yaris is known for its strong resale values in the used car market, making it a solid investment.
High Demand: Its status as a unique, rally-bred homologation special creates high demand among enthusiasts.
Limited Numbers: The limited production numbers help to maintain its exclusivity and desirability over time.
Brand Reputation: Toyota's reputation for excellent reliability further supports its strong residual values.
What are the expected servicing costs for a Toyota GR-Yaris?
Servicing costs for the Toyota GR-Yaris are in line with what you would expect for a specialist performance vehicle, and proper maintenance is key to its longevity.
Scheduled Maintenance: Following the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is vital for maintaining its high performance and reliability.
Specialist Parts: As a Gazoo Racing model, some parts are more specialised than those on a standard Yaris.
Approved Servicing: Using a Vertu Motors dealership ensures that technicians with specific training and genuine parts are used to care for your vehicle.
Is the Toyota GR-Yaris compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, the Toyota GR-Yaris comes equipped with full smartphone integration as standard for seamless connectivity.
Apple CarPlay: Connect your iPhone to access maps, music, and apps on the car's 8-inch infotainment screen.
Android Auto: Integrate your Android device for easy access to your favourite applications and media.
Wireless Connectivity: The system supports a wireless connection, offering added convenience for every journey.
How does the four-wheel-drive system work on the Toyota GR-Yaris?
The Toyota GR-Yaris features an advanced GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system with three selectable modes to tailor the driving experience.
Select Normal Mode: This provides a 60:40 front-to-rear torque split for stable and confident everyday driving.
Choose Sport Mode: This adjusts the split to 30:70, sending more power to the rear for a more dynamic, rear-driven feel on B-roads.
Engage Track Mode: This sets a 50:50 torque split, optimised for maximum grip and performance on a circuit.
What is included with the Circuit Pack on a Toyota GR-Yaris?
The optional Circuit Pack equips the Toyota GR-Yaris with enhanced components for the ultimate track-focused performance.
Choose Performance Suspension: The pack includes a stiffer, track-tuned suspension setup for even sharper handling.
Select Limited-Slip Differentials: It adds front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials for incredible grip and cornering power.
Upgrade Wheels and Tyres: The pack features lighter 18-inch forged alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
Can the Toyota GR-Yaris be used effectively as a daily driver?
Yes, many owners enjoy the Toyota GR-Yaris as a daily driver, as long as its performance-focused characteristics are appreciated.
Check Ride Comfort: The suspension is firm, which is excellent for handling but means you will feel more of the road surface on daily commutes.
Assess Practicality: The boot space is compact at 174 litres, and rear-seat legroom is limited, which is a consideration for passengers or large loads.
Enjoy Compact Dimensions: Its small size makes it very easy to park and navigate through city traffic.
What were the main updates for the 2024 Toyota GR-Yaris?
The 2024 update for the Toyota GR-Yaris introduced significant enhancements to its performance, handling, and interior.
Experience More Power: The 1.6-litre engine received a substantial power and torque increase for even more thrilling acceleration.
Choose a New Transmission: A new 8-speed 'GR-DAT' automatic gearbox became available as an option alongside the acclaimed 6-speed manual.
Select the Revised Cockpit: The interior was updated with a new, more driver-focused dashboard layout and a larger digital instrument display.
