Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance vs VW Golf GTI Edition 50: the stats

We pit the buzzy new Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance against the 'buttoned-up' Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50: two hot hatches that ask big money for a few small tweaks. You've read the twin test: now swot up on each car's stats (Yaris on the left, Golf on the right).

Price: £49,145 OTR (£49,145 as tested)/£48,075 OTR (£52,583 as tested)

£50k is strong money for a hot hatch, no question. Golf is better appointed but the £££s are palpable in the GR’s motorsport DNA.

Powertrain: 1.6-litre turbo three cylinder/2.0-litre turbo four cylinder

Yaris three pot engine is gruff and workmanlike, but sure gets the job done and feels indestructible. The Golf engine lacks charisma but it’s potent.

Transmission: 6spd manual, AWD/7spd DSG, FWD

GR’s AWD would benefit from a more overtly rear-drive bias, but has neat 6spd manual ’box. Golf’s DSG is slick but not as engaging. Feels sharp for a front-drive car, locking diff helps sharpen turn-in.

Total Power: 276bhp/321bhp

Golf has smoother delivery and generally feels more polished, but the Yaris is explosive and addictive despite power deficit.

Total Torque: 254lb ft/310lb ft

Yaris is smaller and lighter so makes up for its lack of torque. Golf has the all round usability thing licked.

0-62mph: 5.2secs/5.3secs

Almost identical times, but the Toyota feels more urgent and dramatic.

Top Speed: 143mph/168mph

You’d choose the Golf for a trans-European blast, the Yaris would be less comfortable on the autobahn.

Claimed Economy/CO2: 32.1mpg, 197g/km/37.1mpg, 173g/km

Golf has the edge, both cars have 50-litre fuel tanks.

Weight: 1,280kg/1,470kg

Smaller and lighter Yaris feels smaller and lighter on the move. As if you needed telling.

Boot Space: 174 litres/374 litres

Golf is much more versatile, Yaris owners might need to use the back seats for luggage and shopping.

Verdict

Near £50k for a Yaris is nuts, but it’s stuffed with motorsport kudos. Who else would go to the trouble of shaving another 5mm off the steering wheel? Impressive rather than stimulating, the Edition 50 needs the optional Performance Pack to do its best work. And some of the cosmetic add-ons are cynical – and cheap.

Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance: 8/10
Volkswagen Golf GTI Edition 50: 7/10