Toyota is set to debut the GR Yaris M Concept in competitive racing at Round 6 of the ENEOS Super Taikyu Series 2025. The event takes place at Okayama International Circuit from October 25 to 26, marking the concept’s first track appearance.
From Concept to Racing Prototype
The GR Yaris M Concept originally premiered at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025. While the standard GR Yaris has a front-mounted engine, the M Concept repositions its powertrain to the midship position. This layout enhances balance and driver control under braking, steering, and acceleration.
Mid-Engine 4WD Philosophy
By relocating the engine and transmission behind the driver, Toyota addressed front-engine understeer tendencies. The midship 4WD setup optimizes weight distribution, improves cornering behavior, and allows the car to respond precisely to driver inputs.
G20E Engine and Performance
Powering the M Concept is the compact, high-output G20E engine. Developed for motorsports applications, it delivers strong performance while remaining lightweight. The team refined the wheelbase and tread to complement the new layout and maximize handling efficiency.
Development Challenges and Testing
During testing, the mid-engine layout introduced unique challenges in braking, steering, and handling. The team conducted extensive evaluations over three months, improving chassis, bodywork, and powertrain performance before the Okayama debut.
Super Taikyu Series Entry
After skipping the previous Autopolis race, Toyota is ready to compete at Okayama. Drivers, engineers, and mechanics have collaborated closely, using repeated test runs and real-world data to prepare the GR Yaris M Concept for track conditions.
Looking Ahead
By participating in Super Taikyu, Toyota aims to continue refining its motorsports-bred technology. Feedback from circuit racing informs future vehicle development, enhancing durability, precision, and performance for production and competition cars alike.
Summary
The GR Yaris M Concept makes its racing debut with a mid-engine 4WD layout and the compact G20E engine. Toyota’s engineering refinements promise precise handling, balanced weight distribution, and motorsports-grade performance for the Super Taikyu Series.
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Source: Toyota
