Back in 2017, then-CEO Akio Toyoda, who now operates as Toyota’s Chairman, proclaimed that the brand would cease to produce uninspiring vehicles. He was embarrassed by the lack of sports cars for enthusiasts like himself.
Jump to 2025, and Toyoda has upheld his commitment and brought forth evidence. Always bring evidence. The standout models? The fresh Toyota Gazoo Racing GR GT, GR GT3, and the electric Lexus LFA. And this is merely the beginning.
At the unveiling of the Toyota Gazoo Racing GR GT on December 4, just outside Fuji, Japan, at the automaker’s Woven City, GR GT Project General Manager Takashi Doi informed journalists that the GR GT was designed to “transmit the enjoyment of driving and the enthusiasm for cars.”
Clearly, the team has accomplished and continues to achieve much more. Featuring a highly technical layout and design, the GR GT is equipped with an aluminum chassis, a low-mounted in-house designed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, an 8-speed automatic transaxle transmission with a canonical gear to redirect power and deliver it to the wheels through a mechanical limited-slip differential, making this sports car an exemplary engineering knowledge transfer for the next generation of engineers.
The inner workings, design, and engineering of that in-house developed 8-speed transaxle with a canonical gear reversing the power to the LSD and to the wheels is quite literally a form of artistry.
Doi mentioned that the company produces “vehicles intended to win.” Only time will reveal the outcome, but he certainly has our attention.
“It is about honoring and returning to fundamentals. Packaging and a lower center of gravity. Strength. And aerodynamics,” Doi explained regarding the GR GT.
However, these three new models serve merely as an exclamation point to everything else Toyota has accomplished in recent years to fulfill the promise of no more mundane cars.
The Supra nameplate has made a comeback. Toyota introduced the GR Corolla hot hatch in the U.S. The Land Cruiser was reimagined and relaunched as a more affordable, less luxurious off-roader (whether you love or loathe its transformation, it lives on in the U.S. market), the return of the Celica has been confirmed, and there are strong signs that the MR2 nameplate is poised for a reunion as well.
It feels as though the ‘90s are making a return, and the enthusiasts are the real winners. No more mundane vehicles
Toyota covered travel, accommodations, and seafood which I certainly passed on to bring you this direct report.
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Toyota GR Leader Aims to Spread the Excitement of Driving and Passion for Cars
In the realm of automotive aficionados, few entities resonate as profoundly as Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) division. At the forefront of this fervent initiative is the GR Leader, committed to not only improving the performance of Toyota vehicles but also reigniting the thrill of driving and cultivating a deep-rooted love for cars among consumers.
The Philosophy Underpinning GR
The fundamental philosophy of Toyota GR is anchored in the conviction that driving should be an exhilarating encounter. The GR Leader underscores that cars are not simply modes of transport but sources of joy and thrill. This viewpoint is embodied in the design and engineering of GR models, which emphasize performance, handling, and driver interaction. The GR lineup, featuring vehicles like the GR Supra and GR86, highlights Toyota’s dedication to crafting automobiles that kindle passion and excitement.
Engaging with Enthusiasts
A key ambition of the GR Leader is to forge connections with automotive enthusiasts on a personal level. This encompasses not only developing high-performance vehicles but also involving the community through events, motorsport activities, and social media engagement. By nurturing a sense of community, the GR division seeks to create a collective experience that celebrates the affection for cars and driving.
Revolutionary Engineering and Performance
Under the leadership of the GR Leader, Toyota has embraced cutting-edge engineering strategies to boost vehicle performance. The GR models are furnished with sophisticated technologies and performance-driven features that elevate the driving experience. From lightweight architecture to meticulously crafted suspensions, every facet of a GR vehicle is engineered to provide an exhilarating journey.
Honor for Motorsport Legacy
Motorsport plays a vital role in the GR ethos. The GR Leader recognizes that racing not only acts as a proving ground for pioneering technologies but also fuels the drive for excitement. Through participation in varied motorsport events, Toyota demonstrates the prowess of its vehicles and reaffirms its commitment to performance. This connection to competitive heritage is a vital component in inspiring a new wave of automotive enthusiasts.
Commitment to Sustainability and the Future of Driving
While the GR division concentrates on performance, the GR Leader also acknowledges the significance of sustainability in the automotive sector. As the world transitions towards more eco-friendly practices, Toyota is investigating methods to incorporate sustainable technologies into its performance vehicles. This pledge ensures that the thrill of driving is accessible to future generations without jeopardizing the environment.
Conclusion
The Toyota GR Leader is on a quest to spread the excitement of driving and cultivate a passion for cars that spans generations. Through groundbreaking engineering, community involvement, and a profound connection to motorsport, the GR division is reshaping the definition of automotive enthusiasm. As Toyota continues to push the limits of performance and sustainability, the spirit of driving remains paramount, inviting everyone to experience the excitement behind the wheel.
