Toyota has unveiled its latest flagship sports car, dispelling rumors suggesting it would don a Lexus badge. In reality, it bears no Lexus branding; in fact, it doesn’t even showcase a Toyota badge. It’s a GR.
The GR GT was introduced on Friday morning in Japan at the automaker’s Woven City complex, situated near Fuji Speedway, alongside a GR GT3 race car and an electric Lexus LFA concept.
Currently a prototype still under development, the GR GT is projected to make its debut sometime in 2027, marking several firsts for the Toyota group, including a new twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain and an aluminum chassis.
Specifications are still being finalized, but concealed beneath the carbon fiber and aluminum exterior is a newly designed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine featuring dry-sump lubrication. According to Toyota, the clean-sheet engine’s design focuses on achieving a low center of gravity while minimizing weight, resulting in a bore and stroke of 87.5 x 83.1, thereby lowering the engine’s overall height. The twin turbos are arranged in a “hot-V” configuration, similar to other premium turbocharged V8s. Toyota aims for an output of at least 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Although a 0-60 mph time hasn’t been revealed, the GR GT is anticipated to reach a top speed of 199 mph or more.
Power is transmitted via a carbon fiber driveshaft to an 8-speed automatic transaxle. Situated between the driveshaft and the gearbox is an electric motor that serves as a torque filler, replacing the torque converter to enable smooth gear shifts and seamless power delivery. A battery pack is positioned above the transaxle to supply energy to the electric motor. To effectively transfer power to the ground, there is a mechanical limited-slip differential. However, in the interest of maintaining a short wheelbase, Toyota has opted for a canonical gear to reverse the power direction, channeling it through the mechanical limited-slip differential, akin to how power flows in an all-wheel-drive supercar. Nevertheless, the GR GT is exclusively rear-wheel-drive.
Toyota has indicated that the entire configuration delivers a 45:55 weight distribution. Even though the manufacturer categorizes the GR GT as a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicle, the V8 is positioned entirely behind the front axle, making it functionally a front-mid-engine layout.
Standard equipment includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, approaching the characteristics of street-legal race slicks; according to Toyota, these were specifically developed for the GR GT. Behind the wheels are sizable Brembo carbon ceramic brake rotors gripped by large calipers, though further details on these components remain undisclosed at this juncture.
Unlike the previous Lexus LFA, which had its V10 engine and exhaust sound fine-tuned by Yamaha, no such collaboration exists for the GR GT. However, Toyota has noted that the exhaust configuration of the GR GT is engineered to produce a sound that matches the vehicle’s character. We will reserve judgment until we can hear the final version firsthand.
The entire chassis is a novel design, created specifically for the GT3 variant and adapted for the street model, as the two were developed simultaneously. It is constructed from aluminum, marking a first for Toyota, helping to maintain a lower weight, increased rigidity, and cost-effectiveness compared to a carbon fiber tub. The body panels are a mix of aluminum and carbon fiber, although Toyota has not yet specified which panels utilize which material. The GR GT is anticipated to weigh no more than 3,858 pounds. At 15.8 feet long, it exceeds the length of a Porsche 911 by about 10 inches while being roughly equivalent to that of a Mercedes-AMG GT Coupe.
The suspension systems for the GR GT and GR GT3 were developed concurrently, featuring low-mounted double wishbones constructed from forged aluminum at both the front and rear.
The exterior design emphasizes the vehicle’s aerodynamics. Toyota asserts that its designers and aerodynamic engineers collaboratively created the GR GT’s body with a primary focus on airflow and cooling performance, rather than mere aesthetics.
Inside, the GR GT is strictly a two-seat configuration and does not offer a 2+2 arrangement. Apologies to families. The interior layout prioritizes ergonomics, ensuring excellent outward visibility on the track and intuitive vehicle controls. Features include substantial toggle switches for various climate and infotainment functions located beneath a large touchscreen, while drive modes and traction control are adjusted with knobs on the steering wheel.
Toyota has not disclosed the expected cost of the GR GT upon arrival, but a six-figure price in the neighborhood of $120,000 is anticipated.
Toyota provided The Drive with travel and lodging to facilitate this firsthand report
**The GR GT: A V8 Hybrid Race Car Engineered for Road Use, Distinct from Toyota’s Identity**
The GR GT signifies a notable advancement in high-performance vehicles, integrating state-of-the-art hybrid technology with the immense power of a V8 engine. This groundbreaking car is engineered for both racing circuits and road usage, providing enthusiasts with a thrilling yet sustainable driving experience.
**Design and Engineering**
At the core of the GR GT is its eye-catching design, marked by aerodynamic contours and a sleek silhouette that enhances its performance potential. The chassis is crafted from lightweight materials, including aluminum and carbon fiber, contributing to superior agility and handling. The vehicle’s exterior prioritizes functional design, expertly fashioned to minimize drag and optimize airflow to ensure stability at elevated speeds.
Under its hood, the GR GT features a robust V8 engine complemented by a hybrid system. This pairing yields remarkable acceleration and responsiveness while also capitalizing on the efficiency advantages of hybrid technology. The inclusion of electric motors not only boosts performance but also reduces emissions, positioning the GR GT as a more eco-friendly choice in the high-performance category.
**Performance Features**
The GR GT is outfitted with cutting-edge performance attributes that appeal to both track aficionados and everyday drivers. It incorporates a sophisticated all-wheel-drive configuration that guarantees optimal traction and stability, whether navigating racetracks or twisting rural roads. Additionally, the vehicle features an adaptive suspension system that can adjust to varied driving conditions, offering a tailored driving experience.
The hybrid technology integrated into the GR GT aims to enhance performance without sacrificing efficiency. The electric motors provide extra torque during acceleration, enabling the vehicle to reach impressive speeds while conserving fuel economy. This fusion of performance capabilities and efficiency distinguishes the GR GT from conventional racing vehicles that frequently emphasize speed at the expense of sustainability.
**Interior and Technology**
Within the GR GT, the emphasis is on ensuring driver involvement and comfort. The driver-focused cockpit is designed with premium materials and advanced technology. A digital dashboard presents real-time performance metrics, while an intuitive infotainment system keeps drivers connected without detracting from their focus on the road.
Safety measures are also emphasized in the GR GT, featuring advanced driver-assistance systems that bolster both performance and safety. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane-maintaining assistance, and collision-avoidance technology, providing drivers the opportunity to relish the thrill of driving with enhanced confidence.
**Distinct from Toyota Branding**
Even though the GR GT is developed under the Gazoo Racing (GR) brand, it is crucial to recognize that it remains separate from traditional Toyota branding. This distinction enables the GR GT to take on a more performance-centric persona, appealing to a specialized audience of automotive enthusiasts who desire a fusion of racing legacy and modern engineering. The GR branding underscores a dedication to motorsport and high performance, distinguishing the GR GT from other offerings in the Toyota lineup.
**Conclusion**
The GR GT exemplifies the future of performance automobiles, merging the breathtaking power of a V8 engine with the advantages of hybrid technology. Its design, performance capabilities, and cutting-edge technology render it a formidable contender in the high-performance vehicle arena, while its unique branding under Gazoo Racing highlights a commitment to innovation and excellence in racing. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the GR GT illustrates how performance and sustainability can harmoniously coexist, paving the way for the upcoming generation of road-worthy race cars.
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