- Toyota adds a hybrid powertrain and a sporty GR Sport trim to the Yaris Ativ.
- The hybrid setup produces a combined 110 hp and promises to return 69 MPG.
- The Yaris Ativ HEV GR Sport gets an aggressive bodykit and handling upgrades.
The Toyota Yaris Ativ, also known as the Vios in some markets, is a small sedan that often gets compared to a scaled-down Corolla. Three years after launching the current generation in Thailand, Toyota is broadening the sub-compact model’s appeal with a hybrid powertrain and a new GR Sport trim aimed at drivers who want something sharper.
var adpushup = window.adpushup = window.adpushup || {que:[]};
adpushup.que.push(function() {
if (adpushup.config.platform !== “DESKTOP”){
adpushup.triggerAd(“0f7e3106-c4d6-4db4-8135-c508879a76f8”);
} else {
adpushup.triggerAd(“82503191-e1d1-435a-874f-9c78a2a54a2f”);
}
});
GR Details Up Close
Starting with the sportiest version, the Gazoo Racing package brings a custom bodykit and a more assertive look. The redesigned front bumper houses larger intakes, paired with deeper side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a discreet black spoiler.
Completing the look are 17-inch alloy wheels and black accents for the roof and mirror caps, with GR badges front and back. Buyers can choose from three colors: Platinum White Pearl, Red Mica Metallic, or Attitude Black Mica.
More: Toyota’s Lineup Overhaul Could Include A Surprise Sedan And Electric Highlander
Inside, the GR Sport continues the theme with black synthetic leather upholstery, gray stitching, and GR logos worked into the steering wheel and headrests. Equipment is generous for the segment, with a Pioneer six-speaker system, a 10.1-inch infotainment display, wireless charging, automatic climate control, ambient lighting, and the Toyota Safety Sense driver assistance suite.
Toyota
Electrified Powertrain
As with most GR Sport models, the focus here is in handling rather than outright power. The suspension and steering have been re-tuned specifically for this trim, while the front and rear stabilizer bars are added to improve balance through corners.
var adpushup = window.adpushup = window.adpushup || {que:[]};
adpushup.que.push(function() {
if (adpushup.config.platform !== “DESKTOP”){
adpushup.triggerAd(“bb7964e9-07de-4b06-a83e-ead35079d53c”);
} else {
adpushup.triggerAd(“9b1169d9-7a89-4971-a77f-1397f7588751”);
}
});
The other big news about the Yaris Ativ is the addition of a self-charging hybrid powertrain option. The system is borrowed from the Yaris and Yaris Cross, which share the same TNGA-B platform.
The system pairs a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 90 hp (67 kW / 91 PS) with an electric motor rated at 79 hp (59 kW / 80 PS). Together, the setup delivers 110 hp (82 kW / 111 PS) through an e-CVT to the front wheels, supported by a 0.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
More: Toyota’s Smallest EV Hides Suzuki Roots With A Cheeky Land Cruiser Nod
Drivers can select from Eco, Normal, or Power modes depending on their priorities. Fuel economy is the highlight, with Toyota quoting 29.4 km/l, equal to 3.4 l/100 km or 69 mpg. The hybrid is available not only in the GR Sport trim but also in a Premium version, which swaps the sportier bodykit for 16-inch wheels and a more subdued black and gray interior.
var adpushup = window.adpushup = window.adpushup || {que:[]};
adpushup.que.push(function() {
if (adpushup.config.platform !== “DESKTOP”){
adpushup.triggerAd(“b25ecba7-3bbb-4ea7-a3a8-dbea91695c07”);
} else {
adpushup.triggerAd(“e46c436a-adeb-4b5e-a2c7-56bc36561c10”);
}
});
For buyers who prefer simplicity, Toyota still offers a 1.2-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 93 hp (69 kW / 94 PS), paired exclusively with a CVT. This non-hybrid version comes in four trims, including Premium Luxury, Premium, Smart, and Sport, but the GR Sport treatment remains hybrid-only.
Priced To Sell
In Thailand, the Yaris Ativ HEV is the most affordable hybrid in Toyota’s lineup, starting at 719,000 baht ($22,200) for the Premium and 769,000 baht ($23,800) for the GR Sport. Naturally, the hybrid carries a premium over the entry-level 1.2-liter petrol version, which begins at 549,000 baht ($17,000).
For those who like bodykits, the optional Charismo Drift package costs 19,990 baht ($620), while the GR accessory package is priced at 28,990 baht ($900).
More: This Toyota Prius Can Cut Emissions By Up To 90% Thanks To A Clever Trick
As reported by Nikkei, Japanese automakers are losing ground in Thailand to Chinese newcomers, with their market share falling from a dominant 90 percent a few years ago to 71 percent. Toyota still leads the market with 38 percent despite a recent decline and aims to attract budget-conscious buyers with more affordable electrified options such as the Yaris Ativ HEV.
Besides Thailand, where the Yaris Ativ is built, the hybrid version will be exported to 23 markets, primarily across Southeast Asia.
H/T to Paultan
#Toyota #Smallest #Sedan #Sport #Makeover #Hybrid #Power
