The Japanese marque has been growing a Rally2 model of its GR Yaris since final 12 months because it bids to hitch the client rally automobile market.
The GR Yaris Rally2 made its public debut at Rally Japan final 12 months and has since undergone an intensive growth programme forward of its FIA homologation, which may start this month.
As soon as homologated, the GR Yaris Rally2 will see Toyota be a part of WRC rivals Hyundai and M-Sport-Ford within the Rally2 enviornment, alongside Skoda, Citroen and Volkswagen.
Toyota has stipulated that 2024 is the goal for its Rally2 automobile to be accessible for opponents, with Latvala hopeful that as many as 4 vehicles might be prepared for Monte Carlo in January.
Latvala has performed an lively position within the growth of the GR Yaris Rally2. The 18-time WRC rally winner drove the automobile at July’s Goodwood Competition of Velocity and lately piloted it to victory at Rally Hokkaido in Japan final month.
“It seems to be like we are going to attempt to do the homologation in October after which hopefully we are able to begin manufacturing on the finish of the 12 months. Our goal is to have the primary vehicles in Monte Carlo,” stated Latvala at Rally Chile.
“You want elements for positive however I feel possibly we’re speaking in a practical world possibly we may have three or 4 vehicles. I feel 4 vehicles might be attainable if all the pieces goes effectively.”
Jari-Matti Latvala, Juho Hanninen, Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 idea
Photograph by: Toyota
Talking after his victory in automobile at Rally Hokkaido, he added” “To begin with, it is very simple to drive. Each buyer sooner or later, when this automobile comes, will be capable of adapt to this automobile very simply.
“The engine has quite a lot of torque, which makes the drivability higher, and there is quite a lot of suspension journey, which works effectively over the bumps. The automobile is so secure and actually sturdy. Fascinated with subsequent 12 months with this automobile, I actually suppose it will be aggressive.”
As to who will drive the GR Yaris Rally2 ought to it make its debut in Monte Carlo, Latvala stated: “After all we’re additionally trying on the groups and drivers that shall be preventing for the highest locations in Rally2, so that’s our curiosity. We’ll have a look at the groups and which drivers they’ve.”