Potential Yaris GR Gen 2 Owner

Hi, just doing a bit of pre purchase research after test driving a GR Yaris at the weekend and being blown away. Cant remember ever being more impressed with a test drive.

My greatest hits: 205 1.9 GTI, Renault 5 turbo, Civic Type R EP3, Focus RS, UP/Polo/Golf Gti, Evo 9 FQ340, A35 AMG.

I see the odd owners review saying they got rid as worries engine might blow. I thought Toyotas were bulletproof?
Are there many concerns with the Gen 2's at all. Are they reliable if serviced and are many pinched?

Thanks for the help

The GR Yaris is strong but engines do blow, the issue was thought to be around the piston design and the Gen2 received modified pistons however this was just a change in coating and the problem still persists. I believe unmodified the chances of it happening are extremely low but it does happen.

Regarding thefts I think 3 have been stolen in the UK over the last 6 years and at least 2 of them were opportunistic rather than targeted. As the parts are bespoke to the GR Yaris there’s not a big resale market like with Abarth 500’s and Ford Fiestas where modifying lower models with the sports parts is popular.

Thanks for the reply. Ive took the plunge and ordered a Gen 2, collect on Saturday. Excited!