Say hello to the Toyota Vios GR-S, which gives most of us without the budget for a full Gazoo Racing product (should I sell the house for the GR Yaris?) a taste of GR, and some badges to go along with it, of course. Based on the latest face-lifted 2021 Toyota Vios, the Vios GR-S is also made locally so customers do not have to pay the extra PHP 70,000 as part of the safeguard bond.
The Vios GR-S is more than just the usual bodykitted variant. The headlining feature is the “10-speed CVT” – Toyota has programmed the stepless automatic gearbox to have 10 virtual ratios in its manual mode. You can shift using the steering paddle shifters. Toyota says that the 10-speed configuration improves response by keeping the 1.5L NR Dual VVT-i engine (unchanged, 107 hp/140 Nm) in a higher RPM range.
There’s more. The GR Sport comes with sports-tuned suspension “for both increased handling and confidence in high speed as well as comfort”. It rides on 17-inch black multi-spoke wheels with 205/45 tyres, the largest ever fitted to a Vios from the factory. Even with just a glance, you’ll feel the thrill of the racetrack. The New Vios GR-S exudes its racing spirit with a bold appearance.
The New Vios GR-S doesn’t just look good on the outside. It was designed to express sporty style on the inside as well. These sports seats provide support to keep you in your seat while taking corners and greater comfort with premium semi-suede leather. Comes with an exclusive GR emblem.
The 4.2″ full-colour display shows important information clearly. Comes with an exclusive GR animation screen and a red GR-themed optitron meter. Push a button. That’s all you need to do to enter your vehicle, and once more, while depressing the brake pedal, to start it. Now styled with a GR emblem.
Performance
Now equipped for enhanced driving performance more than any other Vios, the New Vios GR-S is ready to take you to a world of excitement. The Electronic Control Unit (ECU) is programmed to give a higher engine speed (rpm) in Sport Mode and hold at a higher range for better throttle response. Replicate a manual gear shift, giving you a sportier acceleration as you shift up to the 10th speed and maximise the potential of the higher rpm range. It’s a car with a lot of character, it’s a lot more engaging, and has better steering feedback. The availability of a 10-speed CVT transmission may sound too much, but for a 1.5 litre, it allows the car to be driven at the optimum power band and keeps it spirited throughout the RPM
Prices for the 2021 Toyota Vios GR Sport start at Php 1,020,000.
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