How Toyota made its little "runner" even "sharper"

This wing really suits the Toyota GR Yaris – it's part of an aerodynamic package that makes the small sports car even more dynamic magazin de piese auto online.

How Toyota made its little "runner" even "sharper"

The Toyota GR Yaris brings rally racing to the road – and now, thanks to a new package, it comes even closer to the WRC race car. The compact model now features an impressive wing.

It rises above the roof and is far from just for show - the aerodynamic element is intended to improve the car's handling at high speeds and provide a higher level of safety when braking. The angle of the wing can be adjusted manually to improve the car's handling both in everyday driving and on the track.

The wing is part of the Aero Performance package, which includes five other components that – as the name suggests – improve the aerodynamics of the compact car with 280 hp under the hood. Naturally, these components are inspired by or borrowed from Toyota's rally program.

Created after a racing accident

One of these components was born out of an incident during the Japanese Endurance Championship. During a round of the Super Taikyu series, the bumper of a GR Yaris came off – because the aerodynamic load was too high.

That's why the outer edges of the rear bumper now feature horizontal slits, which are also part of the Aero Performance Package. They are supposed to ensure an even airflow under the car to keep the bumper in place.

Air vents are a key component

Similar “gills” are also found behind the front wheels – but with a different purpose. Because the elements can channel air back from the fenders, Toyota promises improved handling under hard braking and increased cornering stability.

The modified underbody cladding is not visible in the photos. The “bottom” of the car has also been adapted to optimize airflow under the car.

A reference to the extremely sporty (but unfortunately – only available in Japan) limited edition GRMN Yaris is placed on the front hood – where a large cooling vent is located, naturally, closed with a honeycomb mesh.

The final accent is another spoiler – under the front bumper, designed for better aerodynamic downforce.

Price over 50,000 euros

According to German data, the Aero Performance package costs 3,500 euros, which raises the price of the Toyota GR Yaris to 51,090 euros. Those who want an even more genuine rally-racer feel in the interior can order a vertical handbrake lever for an additional 600 euros (only for versions with manual transmission).

Car parts AutoPower
Car parts AutoPower

The Toyota GR Yaris brings rally racing to the road – and now, thanks to a new package, it comes even closer to the WRC race car

It rises above the roof and is far from just for show - the aerodynamic element is intended to improve the car's handling at high speeds and provide a higher level of safety when braking