The highly anticipated Toyota GR GT sports car was unveiled in Tokyo, featuring a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain that can reach a top speed of 320 km/h. This model marks a significant advancement for Toyota, showcasing its first all-aluminium chassis and the introduction of a race-ready GT3 variant. The announcement occurred during a livestream from Toyota’s Higashi-Fuji plant, alongside the reveal of the electric Lexus LFA Concept. Both vehicles are set for a 2027 release, contributing to what the automaker describes as “the sports car apex” of its offerings.
While Toyota has not yet disclosed pricing details or release timelines for various markets, including Australia, the company is currently assessing its product lineup. A representative stated, “This is an exciting moment for Toyota with the GR GT concept unveiled signalling a thrilling future for the Toyota Gazoo Racing brand. Locally, we are currently evaluating our product line-up and will make further announcements in due course.”
The GR GT two-door coupe boasts an aggressive design with a ‘hammerhead’ front-end, similar to other models in the Toyota range, including the next-generation Corolla and the new RAV4 SUV. Measuring 4,820 mm in length, it is noticeably larger than the outgoing Supra, which measures 4,379 mm. The new model is also wider at 2,000 mm and lower at 1,195 mm, featuring four large exhaust outlets at the rear.
Toyota emphasizes a ‘driver-first’ design philosophy for the GR GT. The vehicle’s body has been shaped to meet aerodynamic targets before incorporating stylistic elements. This focus on a lightweight structure and a low centre of gravity led to the development of the all-aluminium chassis, complemented by carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) body panels and a CFRP torque tube. The total weight is expected to be 1,750 kg or less.
The car achieves a front-to-rear weight distribution of 45/55, equipped with 20-inch wheels and Michelin Sport Cup 2 tyres. Additionally, the vehicle features Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes and double-wishbone suspension both at the front and rear. The dry-sump, short-stroke 3,998 cc twin-turbo V8 hybrid engine is engineered to produce 478 kW of power and 850 Nm of torque, exceeding the output of the 2010–2012 Lexus LFA‘s V10 engine.
Toyota has set the GR GT’s target top speed at 320 km/h, positioning it as the fastest road car the brand has ever produced, just shy of the LFA’s maximum speed. The rear transaxle houses a wet-clutch eight-speed transmission that drives the rear mechanical limited-slip differential, optimizing weight distribution and performance.
Inside, the cabin reflects a commitment to the ideal driving position, featuring red leather upholstery and a flat-bottom GR steering wheel adorned with red stitching. A unique digital instrument cluster enhances visibility during spirited driving, particularly with a Track mode feature. Furthermore, the cabin design facilitates easy access to controls positioned near the steering wheel, ensuring a driver-centric layout.
The GT3 variant shares the same V8 engine, suspension, and essential hardware as the GR GT road car. Toyota has stated that both vehicles were developed to transfer the expertise gained during the creation of the LFA to a new generation of engineers within the company. The automaker is actively promoting its Gazoo Racing division as one of its five core global brands, alongside Toyota, Daihatsu, Lexus, and Century.
In a significant move, Toyota will take over as the naming-rights sponsor of the Haas Formula One team, which will rebrand as Toyota Gazoo Racing Haas F1 starting in 2026. Additionally, Toyota plans to enter the Supercars Championship in Australia in 2026 with the GR Supra, led by Walkinshaw Andretti United and featuring the recently crowned champion Chaz Mostert as its lead driver.
With the GR GT and its racing counterpart, Toyota is making a bold statement about its future in the high-performance automotive market.
