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435BHP Forged GR Yaris – Artec Sport 400 Turbo Build

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This Toyota GR Yaris arrived with us towards the end of November / early December with a serious issue – an unmistakable engine knock that required immediate investigation.

Diagnosis & Strip Down

After bringing the car into the workshop, we carried out a full inspection and engine strip-down. The cause of the noise was quickly identified as a spun conrod bearing, which had resulted in internal engine damage.

Given the customer’s goals for the car and plans for increased power, the decision was made to start fresh with a brand-new Toyota short motor, rebuilt and upgraded in-house to handle significantly higher performance levels.

Fully Forged Engine Build

The new short motor was stripped and rebuilt with a full forged setup, alongside key supporting upgrades to ensure strength, reliability, and long-term performance:

Engine & Internal Upgrades

  • Nitto forged pistons
  • Nitto forged conrods
  • HKS head gasket
  • DP head studs
  • Kelford EZ cams & valve springs
  • SRD Racing baffled sump

Turbo & Supporting Modifications

With the forged engine complete, attention turned to airflow, boost, and exhaust flow. The GR Yaris was fitted with the following performance upgrades:

  • Artec Sport 400 turbo
  • Ramair carbon intake
  • MST Performance sports cat
  • Akrapovic exhaust system
  • Ecutek remap

This combination was chosen to deliver strong, usable power with fast spool and excellent throttle response, while retaining everyday drivability.

Results

Running on 99RON pump fuel and 1.9 bar of boost, the GR Yaris produced an impressive 435bhp.

The result is a car that delivers:

  • Lightning-fast turbo spool
  • Strong mid-range and top-end power
  • Sharp throttle response
  • An aggressive and distinctive turbo soundtrack

There is still further potential available from this setup, with scope for increased boost or a move to E85 fuel in the future.

Final Thoughts

This build highlights the importance of addressing engine issues properly and building on a solid foundation. By starting with a fresh OEM base and upgrading it with proven components, this GR Yaris has been transformed into a forged, turbocharged weapon capable of serious performance.

If you’re considering a forged engine build, turbo upgrade, or custom ECU calibration for your performance car, get in touch with Whifbitz to discuss your project.

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