An Australian enthusiast spent over a year constructing a half-scale, driveable Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 in his garage, catching the attention of Toyota Gazoo Racing. The company was impressed enough to invite him and his creation to the Monte Carlo Rally, where the car was displayed alongside the full-size WRC model.
The project was led by Justin White, known for his YouTube channel Garage Avenger. White’s build stands out not just for its accuracy, but for its innovative approach—using 123 separate 3D-printed parts to recreate the aggressive wide-body design of the original GR Yaris. The body panels were assembled, sanded, and finished with an official Toyota Gazoo Racing livery wrap provided by the team itself.
Beneath the custom shell, the mini GR Yaris is built on a modified cross-kart chassis with a wheelbase extended by 580 mm to better match the proportions of the WRC car. It is powered by a high-revving motorcycle engine producing around 118 hp, driving the rear wheels of a vehicle that weighs significantly less than a standard car. Early testing recorded a top speed of 94 km/h, with White estimating the vehicle could reach up to 150 km/h under optimal conditions.
The model features a removable roof for easy access, functional headlights and taillights, sliding plexiglass windows, and a simplified roll cage. Initial handling issues due to excessive grip were
After being invited by Toyota, the mini GR Yaris was featured at the Monte Carlo Rally season opener, where it was put through its paces on select WRC stages in the French Alps. The car attracted significant attention from both the public and rally professionals, including Toyota team principal Jari-Matti Latvala and WRC driver Oliver Solberg.
This garage-built project stands as a testament to the possibilities within grassroots automotive engineering. Its presence at a major motorsport event highlights the growing recognition for innovative DIY builds in the industry.
White’s mini GR Yaris Rally1 is more than a hobbyist’s experiment; it demonstrates what can be achieved with determination, technical skills, and resourcefulness. The use of 3D printing for complex automotive forms is particularly notable, as is the commitment to functional design with a reliable powertrain and event-ready presentation. While it remains a unique tribute rather than a mass-market product, the project challenges preconceptions about what is possible outside of conventional manufacturing. As digital fabrication and grassroots engineering continue to evolve, similar projects may find increasing support and visibility from both manufacturers and motorsport communities.
