Toyota GR Yaris Special Editions: Donut Mode, Morizo Mode, and More!
by AutoExpert | 26 January, 2024
The long-awaited special edition Toyota GR Yaris models, named after rally legends Sebastien Ogier and Kalle Rovanpera, are finally here. And guess what? One of them comes with a super cool Donut Mode and a "Morizo" Mode. Sounds fun, right?
Let's rewind a bit. About a year ago, Toyota teased us at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon with two GR Yaris "concepts" – the RZ Kalle Rovanpera and Sebastien Ogier Editions. They were decked out with special looks and custom drive modes, all in honor of the WRC champs they're named after. And Toyota made us a promise – these babies would eventually hit the market. Well, folks, the wait is over!
Since their big reveal last year, the GR Yaris has gotten a pretty cool facelift, so these new editions are looking a bit different but still super slick. Ogier's version rocks a dark Matte Stealth Gray finish that really makes the blue brake calipers and those snazzy 18-inch BBS wheels pop. It's also got a neat carbon fiber reinforced plastic rally spoiler and decals celebrating Ogier's WRC wins and his French roots. Rovanpera's ride is a bit flashier, sporting a bright three-tone racing livery, special logos, and, just like the GRMN Yaris, an identical rear wing.
Inside, both cars boast unique badging, contrast stitching, and exclusive full TFT gauge displays with special drive modes. But these aren't your typical drive modes. Nope, these are something else.
The Ogier Edition introduces the Morzio Mode, which Toyota describes in a pretty technical way, but it's basically about balancing power between the front and rear wheels. And then there's the SEB Mode, named after Ogier, focusing on sending more power to the rear wheels.
The Rovanpera Edition, on the other hand, brings the fun with its Donut Mode – perfect for controlled drifting. Plus, there's the KALLE Mode, which seems to be all about getting the car to swing out its rear in curves and power forward with the accelerator – sounds like drifting with extra flair!
Unfortunately, these special editions won't be making their way to America, since the GR Yaris isn't sold here. Toyota's only making 200 of these (100 of each), and you'll have to enter a lottery this spring for a chance to buy one. If you're one of the lucky few, not only do you get this exclusive car, but you also score some VIP perks like meeting the drivers. No word on the price yet, but let's be real, these aren't going to be your average-priced GR Yaris.
So, for those of us not in the lottery, we'll just have to admire these special edition GR Yaris models from afar and dream about what it would be like to test out that Donut Mode ourselves!