The rumors of an upcoming refresh for the lauded Toyota GR Yaris prompted independent designers to submit their proposals and we’re liking what we’re seeing
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Almost four years have elapsed since the debut of the Toyota GR Yaris, leaving enthusiasts of this hot hatch eager for an updated iteration. Independent firm Avante Design took up the challenge and crafted a 3D model envisioning a hypothetical facelift for the GR Yaris, incorporating Toyota’s latest design cues.
Building upon the positive reception of the fifth-generation Toyota Prius’s styling, the designer drew inspiration from it for their envisioned enhancements to the GR Yaris. Instead of the typical facelift changes centered on elements like bumpers, this modification primarily revolves around the redesign of lighting components.
More: New Toyota Prius GRMN Is Coming With A Boosted PHEV Powertrain, Says Report
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At the front, the GR Yaris received the “hammerhead face” treatment, with slimmer LED headlights similar to the Toyota Prius, surrounding a sharper body-colored nose. This change required modifications on the front fenders and a new hood which is now vented, and admittedly alters the look of the rally-bred supermini.
Avante Design didn’t change anything on the unique three-door profile of the hot hatch other than lowering the suspension for an even sportier stance. At the back, the highlight is the new unified taillight cluster with full-width LED graphics and a body-colored rear fascia replacing the black trim of the current version.
What we know about the actual facelifted GR Yaris
While the renderings are purely imaginative, recent reports from Japan suggest that the Toyota GR Yaris will indeed undergo a facelift in 2024. Don’t get too hyped up about the refresh though, as changes will likely be limited to redesigned bumpers and a larger rear spoiler, along with the introduction of a digital instrument cluster in the cabin.
It is also rumored that the turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder will match the output of the larger GR Corolla at 300 hp, with the added option of a new 8-speed automatic transmission alongside the existing 6-speed manual. Of course, power will still be channeled to all four wheels via the standard GR-Four system, developed in the World Rally Championship.
Do you favor the bolder, Prius-inspired appearance showcased in the digital model for the facelifted Toyota GR Yaris, or do you lean towards a more understated design? It’s worth noting that Toyota recently updated the standard five-door Yaris with more tech and a stronger hybrid, although this model is largely unrelated to the extensively re-engineered three-door-only GR Yaris hot hatch.
Note: The renderings in this story are purely imaginative and have no affiliation with Toyota.
