The Rally Estonia this weekend will see an engine upgrade for Toyota’s GR Yaris Rally1.
Three of Toyota’s drivers are now in the top four in the drivers’ rankings, and the Japanese automaker is currently in first place among manufacturers.
Toyota has won Rally Estonia for the last two seasons. However, the GR Yaris Rally1’s power unit has been upgraded ahead of the two fastest rallies of the year in an effort to get even more performance out of its cars. A lot of focus has been given to the internal combustion engine.
“The last event in Kenya marked the mid-point of the 2023 season and after an incredible result there,” said team principal Jari-Matti Latvala. “Our lead in the drivers’ and manufacturers’ championships shows that the team has done a really good job so far in the face of some close competition.”
“Of course, we want to continue this strong form in the next upcoming Rally Estonia and Finland, where the focus is very much on performance.
“They require a different mindset from the drivers compared to the rougher events we have had recently: if you want to win, you will need to push from the first corner of the first stage.
“We were strong in Estonia one year ago but we have still been working hard to improve our performance for these rallies and it’s great that we can bring new updates to the car.
“Our drivers enjoy driving on fast roads and we’re really looking forward to the rally.”
World champion Kalle Rovanpera is 41 points ahead of teammate Elfyn Evans heading into the weekend. The two finished first and second in Estonia last year.
“Rally Estonia is definitely one of my favorite events on the calendar,” Rovanperä said. “I have spent a lot of time in Estonia and the fast and flowing roads suit my driving style really well. I have good memories from the rally and it has always been an enjoyable one for me.
“Even in 2020 when I didn’t have much experience we could fight for the podium, and then 2021 was very special as it was our first win.
“Last year the weather was making a difference and I hope we can have some rain this year too, because we will be opening the road again on Friday.
“Like on any rally, the plan will be to aim for the win, and especially as this is one we have been so strong on before.”
With Sébastien Ogier absent, Takamoto Katsuta will join Rovanpera and Evans in the front-running Toyota team.
