Don’t refer to it as a Toyota, because Toyota’s newest flagship sports car doesn’t don the automaker’s logo. It isn’t a Lexus either. It’s a Toyota Gazoo Racing creation. However, there’s one catch: there are no GR dealerships, and that brand is absent from the U.S. market.
At the debut of the Toyota Gazoo Racing GR GT (the official name) just outside Fuji, Japan at Toyota’s Woven City, The Drive raised the pertinent question: How will someone acquire a GR GT in the U.S., and where will it receive maintenance? A representative from Toyota stated, “The GR GT will be available for purchase at select Lexus dealerships.”
Yet, it’s not a Lexus, and the name Toyota is included in Toyota Gazoo Racing. Americans are soon to be puzzled, but just imagine their reaction if they were to enter a Toyota dealership and buy a $225,000 sports car parked next to a Corolla.
The pricing of the GR GT is what will drive it to be sold in Lexus dealerships despite lacking a Lexus badge. Clients spending well over six figures on a vehicle will expect premium service, something that isn’t provided in a showroom shared with a Corolla. Although, Ford somehow accomplished this with the GT supercar and is currently figuring it out with a $325,000 Mustang.
The irony in all this is that eventually the GR GT will be displayed in the same Lexus showroom as the electric LFA, which shares the same chassis as the GR GT.
This may be the first instance of a non-Lexus being sold via Lexus dealers, but it certainly won’t be the last. Toyota is set to undergo a similar process with its flagship Century luxury models here in the U.S.
As for which select Lexus dealerships will participate and the criteria for becoming part of that group, that remains to be seen. Don’t contact your local Lexus dealership just yet.
Toyota provided travel, accommodation, and raw fish which I absolutely did not consume to deliver this first-hand report.
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**The GR GT Will Not Be Available at Toyota Dealerships: Alternative Purchase Options Explained**
The Toyota GR GT, a much-awaited sports vehicle, has sparked considerable excitement among car enthusiasts. Nonetheless, it has been confirmed that this model will not be obtainable through conventional Toyota dealerships. This decision has led many potential buyers to explore alternative purchasing avenues. Here, we delve into the reasons behind this decision and the various options available for acquiring the GR GT.
### Reasons for Limited Availability
Toyota’s choice to exclude the GR GT from dealership sales is part of a larger strategy aimed at fostering a more exclusive and high-end experience for buyers. By restricting availability, Toyota seeks to elevate the car’s allure and uphold its identity as a high-performance vehicle. This strategy mirrors that of other luxury and performance brands that typically employ limited production runs to instill a sense of urgency and exclusivity among consumers.
### Alternative Purchase Options
1. **Direct Online Sales:**
Toyota has embraced digital innovation, and the GR GT may be offered for direct purchase through an online platform. Prospective buyers can visit Toyota’s official website or a dedicated GR GT microsite to find details on availability, pricing, and buying procedures. This method facilitates a simplified purchasing experience, often allowing for vehicle customization to personal preferences.
2. **Specialty Automotive Retailers:**
Certain specialized automotive retailers or performance car dealerships may stock the GR GT. These retailers generally focus on high-end and performance automobiles, offering a curated selection that features limited-edition models. Buyers should investigate and contact these retailers to inquire about possible availability and purchasing options.
3. **Auction Houses:**
With the expected demand for the GR GT, auction houses could present a viable avenue for obtaining this vehicle. Prestigious auctions often feature rare and limited-edition cars, and the GR GT might be included. Buyers should monitor upcoming auctions and consider participating in bidding events to secure this exclusive model.
4. **Private Sellers:**
As the GR GT enters the marketplace, some owners may opt to sell their vehicles privately. Online platforms, automotive discussion forums, and social media groups focused on car enthusiasts can serve as valuable resources for locating private listings. Buyers should proceed carefully and conduct thorough research when purchasing from private sellers to ensure a smooth transaction.
5. **Toyota’s GR Racing Events:**
Toyota may organize exclusive events or competitions where participants have the opportunity to win or purchase a GR GT. These gatherings not only promote the brand’s performance line but also create unique occasions for enthusiasts to engage with the vehicle in an active environment.
### Conclusion
While the absence of the GR GT from conventional Toyota dealerships might be disheartening for some, numerous alternative purchasing options are available for those eager to own this extraordinary sports car. By exploring direct online sales, specialty retailers, auction houses, private sales, and exclusive events, potential buyers can navigate the landscape of acquiring a GR GT. As the automotive market evolves, being informed and proactive will be crucial for securing this sought-after vehicle.