Experience the Thrill of the Toyota GR Yaris Evo on a Frozen Finnish Lake
When it comes to having a good time behind the wheel, speed is not always the key factor. Just ask anyone who has had the pleasure of driving the revamped Toyota GR Yaris Evo on a frozen Finnish lake. This exhilarating experience may not require high speeds, but it certainly delivers a memorable and thrilling ride.
Located near Jyväskylä in the 1000 Lakes region, the heartland of Finland’s rallying scene, this sheet of ice served as the perfect playground to test the capabilities of Toyota’s hot hatch. While I never ventured beyond second gear, the GR Yaris Evo showcased its agility and control on the icy terrain.
Driving on ice may not be the typical setting to explore a car’s performance, but the GR Yaris Evo proved to be a master of the slippery surface. With the guidance of a seasoned Finnish rally driver, I was able to push the limits of the car, sliding and controlling it with ease thanks to its balanced handling.
Equipped with a potent 1.6-litre turbo engine, the GR Yaris Evo delivers impressive power without feeling overwhelming. The recent facelift enhancements, including improved seating position and dashboard layout, as well as a new automatic transmission, further elevate the driving experience.
Despite the unfamiliar environment, the GR Yaris Evo instilled confidence in me as a driver. However, that confidence was put to the test when I had the opportunity to ride with Jari-Matti Latvala, whose high-speed maneuvers on the frozen lake left me questioning my definition of fun.
