by Japanese automaker Toyota has celebrated the ninth championship title of French rally driver Sébastien Ogier with a special version of the hot hatch GR Yaris.
Key Features of the Edition
For true rally fans, the name Sébastien Ogier and his Toyota GR Yaris are synonymous with success. To celebrate this victory, the company offers the opportunity to purchase a special version of the hatchback.
The car, which bears the long name GR Yaris Sébastien Ogier 9x World Champion Edition, was created by the Toyota Gazoo Racing division. It is based on the version with the Aero Performance Package. Europe will receive half of the total run of 200 cars, while in Japan sales will be conducted via lottery. This is not a car you can simply see at a dealership.
New Modes with Rally Roots
The main feature is hidden under the hood but controlled from the cabin. Toyota engineers worked directly with Ogier to create two unique all-wheel-drive operating modes. The “Seb” mode replaces the standard “Track” mode and provides a 40:60 torque distribution between the front and rear axles for a more rear-wheel-drive behavior without losing front-wheel grip. It is designed to help the car turn into corners better and be more lively on fast roads.
If gravel is under the wheels, the Morizo mode, also developed with Ogier’s input, will be needed. During acceleration, the front and rear axles are locked together for maximum traction and then unlocked during braking. This setting reflects the advantages Ogier discovered during actual rally runs and also conveys the instincts of Akio Toyoda himself, known in rally circles under the pseudonym Morizo.
Restrained Colors
Externally, Toyota maintained restraint. The new Black Gravite paint is combined with matte black wheel rims and Ogier’s signature blue brake calipers. A subtle detail in the colors of the French tricolor is noticeable in the grille, while discreet graphic elements and badges make it clear that this is something much more special than a regular GR Yaris, without unnecessary fuss.
The rally heritage is also felt inside. The steering wheel is slightly smaller than standard and has redesigned controls inspired by the Rally2 rally car. Stitching in the colors of the French flag, a leather-wrapped vertical handbrake lever, and a numbered plaque complete the picture. Even the digital instrument panel received unique graphics for the new driving modes.
Presented as a prototype at the Monte Carlo Rally, this GR Yaris will go into series production this year, although pricing information is not yet available. Unfortunately, it is also known that the car will not be sold in the USA. This raises the question: should Toyota develop a “Seb” mode for the GR Corolla model for the American market?
The limited run of 200 cars makes this model more of a collector’s item than a mass product. This decision emphasizes exclusivity and connection to an outstanding sporting achievement. The implementation of modes developed with the champion’s participation is an interesting example of how technologies from professional sports can find limited application in road cars, increasing their value for enthusiasts. Such special editions often become a benchmark for future updates of production models, demonstrating potential development directions.
