Toyota Launches Four Models in its "GR" Sports Car Series | Toyota
TOYOTA Vitz GRMN | Toyota Vitz GRMN
TOYOTA 86 GR | Toyota 86 GR
TOYOTA AQUA GR SPORT | Toyota Aqua GR Sport
TOYOTA Priusα GR SPORT | Toyota Priusα GR Sport
Toyota Launches Four Models in its "GR" Sports Car Series
On November 21, Toyota Motor Corporation launched the "Vitz GRMN," "86 GR," "Aqua GR SPORT," and "Priusα GR SPORT" – the first models in the "GR" sports car series announced last month. Of these, the Vitz GRMN will be limited to 150 units, with applications opening on April 9, 2018, at GR Garages nationwide or via a dedicated website. The 86 GR will go on sale December 18, 2017, the Aqua GR SPORT on November 27, and the Toyota Priusα GR SPORT on December 1, at Toyota dealerships.
Text by HARA Akira
Top Model Vitz GRMN Limited to 150 Units
At the pinnacle of Toyota's "GR" sports car series, developed by GAZOO Racing Company, stands the "Vitz GRMN."GRThis model embodies the concept of "giving back from motorsports," incorporating insights gained from test drives on Germany's Nürburgring, one of the world's most demanding circuits, and from the Vitz's participation in the All Japan Rally Championship.
The 2ZR-FE 1.8-liter inline-4 supercharged engine offers a balance of power and responsiveness to throttle inputs, paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. The already rigid European 3-door body has been further reinforced with added tower bars (front) and braces. Equipped with SACHS shock absorbers specially tuned for various road conditions, a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD), front 4-pot slotted disc brakes, and lightweight BBS alloy wheels, it delivers exhilarating performance controllable on both circuits and public roads.
TOYOTA Vitz GRMN
With the optional T-Connect navigation system and TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Recorder installed simultaneously, it's possible to measure circuit lap times and analyze driving data.
Available in Super White II, the price is ¥4,000,000. With a limited production of 150 units, applications will be accepted from April 9 to May 13, 2018, at GR Garages nationwide and via a dedicated website. If applications exceed 150 units, a lottery will be held on May 21.
The 86 GR is based on the "86 GRMN" released in February 2016 as a limited run of 100 units. It features added braces for increased rigidity, specially tuned SACHS shock absorbers, the same Torsen LSD as the 86 GRMN, and front 6-pot and rear 4-pot drilled disc brakes.
The Crystal White Pearl exterior is complemented by a dedicated full aero kit, while the interior boasts exclusive combination meters and Recaro front seats, creating a refined and sporty ambiance. It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and is priced at ¥4,968,000.
TOYOTA 86 GR
The Aqua GR SPORT and Priusα GR SPORT are models designed for accessible sporty driving. Body rigidity has been enhanced through additional spot welding (Aqua) and braces (Priusα, Aqua 17-inch package), while specially tuned suspension aims to deliver both driving enjoyment and the excellent fuel efficiency unique to hybrid systems. Prices range from ¥2,332,800 to ¥2,538,000 for the Aqua, and ¥3,351,240 to ¥3,556,440 for the Priusα.