But doesn't Toyota already have an all-wheel drive hot hatch in the GR Yaris? Yeah, but it looks like it's coming a new, bigger and more powerful all-wheel drive hot hatch , not just for Toyota but for Subaru.
And the key here is really Subaru. There are several rumors that indicate a possible return of the Japanese brand to the WRC in 2022, after its withdrawal in 2008. It lacks, however, a machine with which to compete.
Some rumors said that Subaru's new machine could be based on a Toyota model, namely the GR Yaris, but more recent rumors indicate that a machine with specific hardware is being developed.
According to the Japanese publication Best Car, the new model will also take the format of a hatchback, but with dimensions similar to the current Impreza Sport, the hatchback and five-door variant of the model. In other words, a level above the one where the GR Yaris finds itself.
Despite joint development, the new all-wheel drive hot hatch will technically be far more Subaru than Toyota. Powering it will be a four-cylinder boxer and will make use of the brand's symmetrical AWD system — which indicates that it will also be based on a Subaru platform — rather than the AWD system developed specifically for the GR Yaris, as older rumors pointed out.
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When will we see him? Also according to Best Car, towards the end of 2022. And if the objective is to return to the WRC, can this machine be hybridized to face the new regulations? We will have to wait.
Why (also) a Toyota?
Whether Subaru's proposal should take a similar stance to the legendary Impreza WRX STi of yesteryear, or even take the place of the current WRX STi, we are more intrigued by the future of this all-wheel drive hot hatch like a Toyota.
If this new proposal is confirmed, what could it mean for the future of GR Yaris? And what could it mean for the future of the GR Corolla (with mechanics identical to the GR Yaris)? Remember that the GR Corolla would be the way to appease North American customers who cannot buy the GR Yaris there. Yes, we have more questions than answers and will be answered in due course.
In addition to these sportier proposals, such as the BRZ and GT86 coupés, which will have a second generation — the BRZ has already been unveiled — and this new and probable all-wheel drive hot hatch, Toyota and Subaru are also developing several models 100% electric based on Toyota's new e-TNGA platform.