Which is the top of the range Toyota Yaris?
The top-of-the-range model in the Toyota Yaris lineup is the GR Yaris, a high-performance hatchback developed with Gazoo Racing. It stands above the standard Yaris variants in power, handling and features.
Flagship model: GR Yaris
The GR Yaris is Toyota’s halo version of the Yaris, built to deliver race-inspired performance while retaining the compact practicality the Yaris is known for. Launched in 2020, it represents the apex of the Yaris family and showcases Toyota’s motorsport ethos in a street-legal package.
Engine and performance
Key numbers and performance characteristics vary by market, but the GR Yaris is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine that delivers around 260 horsepower. Torque peaks near 360 Nm, and the car is tuned for rapid response and strong mid-range pull. Official 0-100 km/h times are typically in the mid-5-second range, depending on market and spec.
- Turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine
- Approximately 260 hp and around 360 Nm of torque
- Performance tuned for rapid acceleration and agile cornering
These figures position the GR Yaris as a serious performer among compact hot hatch rivals, with acceleration and on-road dynamics designed for enthusiastic driving.
Drivetrain and handling
The GR Yaris uses Toyota’s GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, which offers adjustable torque distribution to optimize grip on varying surfaces. The combination of a lightweight chassis, strategic weight savings, and track-oriented suspension enhances handling precision and stability at speed.
- GR-Four all-wheel drive with selectable torque distribution
- Lightweight construction and sport-tuned suspension
- Chassis designed for tight, responsive handling and track-capable performance
With its drivetrain and chassis setup, the GR Yaris blends everyday usability with dedicated performance credentials.
Design, variants and availability
The GR Yaris features a distinctive three-door hatch silhouette and aggressive aerodynamics, along with cooling and brake systems sized for high-performance use. In some markets a range of special variants or packages (such as Circuit or Rally editions) have been offered to appeal to enthusiasts.
- Distinctive, performance-focused design with aerodynamic cues
- Special variants and packages in select markets
- Typically priced above standard Yaris hatchbacks, reflecting its flagship status
Taken together, these attributes establish the GR Yaris as the flagship model within the Yaris family, aimed at buyers seeking a high-performance, compact hatchback experience.
Other trims and regional variations
Beyond the GR Yaris, the broader Yaris lineup includes hybrid and petrol hatchbacks, as well as the Yaris Cross compact SUV. Trim levels and engine options vary by region, but the general split is clear: the GR Yaris for performance enthusiasts, and the rest of the lineup for efficiency and everyday practicality.
- Yaris Hybrid: efficient hybrid option pairing a 1.5-litre petrol engine with electric motors
- Petrol Yaris: conventional petrol-powered hatchbacks with varying trims
- Yaris Cross: a compact crossover variant with higher ride height and SUV-style versatility
In short, if you want the most powerful expression of the Yaris badge, the GR Yaris is the top-tier model; for daily commuting and fuel efficiency, the other Yaris variants cover the remainder of the spectrum.
Context and market availability
Globally, the GR Yaris remains the performance pinnacle of the Yaris family, with other trims offering hybrid efficiency or everyday practicality. Availability and naming can differ by market, and some regions may limit access to certain packages or variants.
Summary
The Toyota GR Yaris stands as the top-of-the-range Yaris, delivering tournament-ready performance via a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive and a purpose-built chassis. It sits above the standard Yaris models as the flagship for enthusiasts seeking a compact, high-performance hatch.
What is the top model of Toyota Yaris?
Excel. Sitting at the tops of the range of the Excel, which has all of the plus points of the Icon with some added extras, from 17" machined-face alloy wheels to auto-retractable door mirrors. It also features Smart Entry and push button start, for a smooth experience every time you set out for a drive.
Which year of Toyota Yaris is the best?
The more recent your purchase with the Toyota Yaris, the better it will serve you as time goes on. Out of these years, the 2012-2018 models are the best selections. According to enginepatrol.com, these years received a 4.6 out of 5 in reliability from Kelley Blue Book.
What are the grades of the Yaris?
For both the Yaris hatch and Yaris Cross SUV, the four main trim levels are Icon, Design, GR Sport and Excel.
What is Toyota replacing the Yaris with?
Toyota Is Replacing the Old Yaris with a Rebadged Mazda 2 Hatchback. Like the current Yaris sedan, it's looking like the 2020 Yaris hatch will also be built by Mazda.
