Toyota GR Yaris Receives a Literal Donut Mode

In a reminiscent style of the Mitsubishi Evo VI Tommi Mäkinen Edition from the 1990s, the Sebastien Ogier Edition and Kalle Rovanperä Edition GR Yaris variants introduce bespoke driving modes tailored by their namesakes. These modes replace the typical Gravel and Track modes of the GR Yaris and aren’t interchangeable between cars—this is akin to picking between Pokemon Red or Blue.

The Ogier Edition is equipped with a “Seb” mode that prioritizes power to the rear wheels to facilitate easy drifting, along with a “Morizo” mode inspired by Akio Toyoda’s racing alter-ego. When the latter is activated, Toyota claims that “restraint (direct connection) is optimally applied to the front and rear wheels during acceleration, and only relaxed as needed during braking.” The specifics of this “restraint” remain unspecified.

On the other hand, the Rovanperä Edition features Donut and Kalle modes. Describing the former, Toyota once again mentions “restraint (direct connection)” which is utilized to the front and rear wheels to ensure control during drifting maneuvers. The outcome is self-explanatory: dusty (or smoky) donuts. The Kalle mode is tailored to operate with an exclusive “constant velocity rear differential,” unique to this edition. In essence, it facilitates the rotation of the car on corner entry, followed by stabilization during acceleration. I envision it functioning similarly to enabling him to extract every ounce of performance from a Celica GT-Four.

Both cars showcase distinctive styling packages in addition to these modes. The Ogier variant boasts a fixed carbon fiber-reinforced polymer spoiler, a fresh Matte Stealth Gray finish, and blue brake calipers. Conversely, Rovanperä’s vehicle includes an adjustable carbon spoiler borrowed from the GRMN model and a three-tone paint scheme inspired by his helmet design.

Both versions are adorned with decals that celebrate WRC triumphs, commemorative plaques on the passenger side of the dashboard, and steering wheel stitching in the color scheme of each driver’s home country flag. While an automatic transmission is now available for the GR Yaris, these editions will only come equipped with six-speed manuals.

These exclusive variants will be exclusively available in Japan in limited quantities of 100 units each. Buyers will be treated to special VIP perks at this year’s WRC Rally Japan, including pit tours, driver encounters, and a specialized stage viewing. Furthermore, their names will be displayed on Toyota’s WRC cars at select race locations.

If any versions of the GR Yaris merit the designation of being exceptional, it’s these editions. They not only underscore the significance of special editions exceeding mere paint and decals; they genuinely need to be considered distinctive. Collaborating with racing champions is just one strategy towards accomplishing this goal.

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