For those unfamiliar, the Toyota GR Yaris sits on its own platform and cranks out 257 horsepower from a turbocharged 1.6L inline-three. That power, plus 265 lb-ft of torque, finds its way to the macadam via a rally-derived all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed manual gearbox. Toyota’s own website explicitly states that the GR Yaris “isn’t coming to the U.S.” but then goes on to say “perhaps it’s time the U.S. got a Toyota hot hatch to call its own.”
After decades filled with milquetoast sedans and crossovers, Toyota showrooms are once again occupied by sporty machines like the newly revamped 86 coupe and gonzo Supra. It would not be out of character for the company to add a hot Corolla. This is not a statement we could have made with any confidence just a few short years ago.