Toyota has unveiled its highly anticipated GR GT sports car alongside a dedicated GT3 race variant, marking a significant leap forward in performance engineering. The GR GT, slated for release in 2027, boasts a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain capable of exceeding 320km/h, making it the fastest Toyota road car ever produced.
Core Innovations: Chassis and Powertrain
The GR GT features Toyota’s first all-aluminium chassis, combined with carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) body panels and a CFRP torque tube. This construction keeps weight under 1750kg while ensuring a near-ideal 45/55 front-to-rear weight distribution. The heart of the GR GT is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid engine, delivering 478kW (637hp) and 850Nm of torque – exceeding the power output of the legendary Lexus LFA supercar.
Design and Aerodynamics
The vehicle’s design prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency, shaping the body around performance targets before aesthetic considerations. The GR GT’s exterior includes a prominent ‘hammerhead’ front-end, four massive exhaust outlets, and sits lower and wider than the current Toyota Supra. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes ensure optimal grip and stopping power.
Interior and Driver Focus
The cabin is designed with a ‘driver-first’ approach, featuring red leather trim, a flat-bottom GR steering wheel, paddle shifters, and a customized digital instrument cluster. Switch placement is optimized for spirited driving, ensuring clear gauge legibility even in Track mode. Adjustable stability control allows drivers to fine-tune power and braking characteristics.
Racing Heritage: GR GT3
The GR GT3 version shares the same V8 engine, suspension, and core hardware as the road-going model. This confirms Toyota’s commitment to transferring expertise gained from the LFA development to a new generation of engineers. The company views Gazoo Racing as a core global brand, alongside Toyota, Lexus, Daihatsu, and Century.
Expansion into Motorsport
Toyota will sponsor the Haas Formula One team as Toyota Gazoo Racing Haas F1 from 2026. In Australia, Toyota will enter the Supercars Championship in 2026 with the GR Supra, partnered with Walkinshaw Andretti United and led by Chaz Mostert.
Toyota’s GR GT represents a bold step in sports car development, combining cutting-edge engineering with a clear focus on driver experience and racing pedigree. The commitment to motorsport underscores the brand’s broader ambition to establish Gazoo Racing as a global performance leader.
