Toyota is celebrating Sébastien Ogier's ninth World Rally Championship (WRC) title with a special edition of the GR Yaris, limited to just 200 units. This exclusive model, known as the GR Yaris Sébastien Ogier 9x World Champion Edition, is built on the Aero Performance Package and will be available in select markets. Half of the units will be allocated to Europe, while Japan will handle sales through a lottery system. This is not a vehicle that can be easily found in dealerships, making it a rare opportunity for rally enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of this special edition is its two unique all-wheel-drive modes, developed in collaboration with Ogier himself. The first mode, dubbed “Seb,” replaces the standard Track mode and offers a 40:60 torque split, providing a more rear-biased driving experience without compromising front-end grip. This configuration is designed to enhance the car's agility and responsiveness on fast roads.
For those who find themselves on gravel, the “Morizo” mode comes into play. This mode, also co-developed with Ogier, locks the front and rear axles together under acceleration for optimal traction, then relaxes during braking. This setup reflects Ogier's real-world rally experience and incorporates the driving philosophy of Akio Toyoda, who is known in rally circles as Morizo. Such thoughtful engineering showcases Toyota's commitment to performance and driver engagement.
Visually, the GR Yaris Sébastien Ogier Edition maintains a restrained aesthetic. It features a new Black Gravite paint complemented by matte black wheels and distinctive blue brake calipers that bear Ogier's signature. Subtle details, such as a French tricolour accent in the grille and understated graphics, serve to highlight the car's exclusive nature while keeping the overall look sophisticated.
As the GR Yaris continues to gain recognition among rally fans, this special edition stands out not only for its limited availability but also for the unique driving modes that enhance its performance. The collaboration with Ogier emphasizes Toyota's dedication to creating vehicles that resonate with enthusiasts, ensuring that the spirit of rally driving lives on in this remarkable hot hatch.
