TOYOTA

Yaris Cross GR Sport: the new sporty version of the exclusive SUV for Japan

The Toyota Yaris Cross GR Sport is a new sporty version of the urban SUV that will only be released in Japan. In addition to the styling touches, the brand equips this vehicle with a stiffer chassis and revised suspension.

This version adds additional reinforcements at the bottom center and back. Toyota claims they serve to improve steering stability and reduce body sway.

For its part, the new suspension adjustment reduces the ground clearance by 10 mm. Specifically, the springs, dampers and electric power steering were adjusted. The Yaris Cross GR Sport wears Falken FK510 tires and 18-inch, ten-spoke alloy wheels.

With the hybrid powertrain, the Japanese model provides an improved response with the accelerator pedal, according to the Japanese company. Toyota also touches up the car's styling by adding a new screen on the front and rear, as well as red-toned brake calipers.

Inside, the crossover debuts front seats with a mix of Air Nubuck material and synthetic leather. There's a leather-lined three-spoke steering wheel with the GR logo and the front of the center console is upholstered in a dark gray metallic color. In addition, the gearshift lever is covered in leather and the pedals have aluminum covers.

Interestingly, the Yaris Cross GR Sport is only offered with front-wheel drive and not in a 4x4 version, despite being available in the conventional range thanks to a second electric motor that drives the rear axle.

This sports version will go on sale in Japan in August. Prices start from 2,367,000 yen (94,800 reais at the current exchange rate-local currency), which include the country's consumption tax. A very interesting value for what the vehicle offers.

The GR Sport adds to the Adventure trim, which was introduced to the market last year. This option put an emphasis on making the vehicle look more robust, especially by adding a protective plate to the rear bumper.

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