HKS Boosts GR Yaris

HKS Upgrades

The Toyota GR Yaris has been making waves with its turbocharged three-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, embodying the thrill of a rally car right on the street. The latest buzz comes from HKS, a renowned name in the tuning world, which has introduced a new aerodynamic kit specifically designed to elevate the GR Yaris experience even further.

Kit Details

This new offering, named the Type-S Gen2 kit, redefines the aerodynamic profile of the GR Yaris, making it not only look sharper but also perform better on the track. It’s composed of several key components including a front splitter crafted from glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP), seasoned with carbon fiber end plates to bump up the downforce over the front wheels.

Moving along the vehicle’s sides, the same GFRP material constructs the side skirts, enhancing both aerodynamics and a sleek look. The rear gets the most attention with a full carbon fiber wing, featuring swan neck uprights that maximize downforce effectively. This is complemented by aero spats with carbon fiber fins on the rear bumper’s edges.

Performance Feel

Driving the GR Yaris with the HKS kit installed transforms the experience altogether. The aerodynamic enhancements allow for improved handling at high speeds, providing that on-track edge many racing enthusiasts look for. It grips the road confidently, similar to higher-end counterparts like the Volkswagen Golf R or the Ford Focus ST, which also place heavy emphasis on performance optimization. Yet, the GR Yaris stands out thanks to its rally heritage and now elevated aerodynamics.

Availability and Pricing

In Japan, this aerodynamic suite comes with a price tag of about $1,148 for the splitter and approximately $918 for both the side skirts and the rear wing. As of now, international availability remains uncertain, leaving fans outside Japan to either wait patiently or seek alternative means of acquiring the kit.

The addition of these components is not just about aesthetics; it’s about achieving tangible performance benefits. The GR Yaris with the HKS upgrade has already been put to the test in Japan’s Super Endurance Series, proving its mettle in real-world racing conditions.