By Staff Reporter

Toyota Gazoo Racing has introduced two prototypes, the GR GT and GR GT3. The aim was not to chase trends, but to build cars shaped by motorsport experience from the ground up. Both projects involved professional drivers, engineers and Akio Toyoda himself.

Rather than adapting an existing platform, Toyota started fresh with the basics: centre of gravity, overall rigidity and clean aerodynamics. That led to a new all-aluminium frame, a compact twin-turbo V8, and uncommon packaging choices that prioritise the driver’s position first and everything else second.

GR GT: Track thinking applied to the road

The GR GT is built like the race car first, and the road car second. Engineers worked out the lowest driving position that made sense, then arranged the engine, transaxle, battery and hybrid components around that point. The result is a setup where the driver and car feel closely linked.

The hybrid twin-turbo V8 targets more than 470 kW and 850 Nm, with a 45 to 55 front-rear weight balance. The hot-V layout helps keep the engine low, and dry-sump lubrication allows a slim profile. Power goes to an 8-speed transmission via a CFRP torque tube.

Aerodynamics shaped the body before any styling decisions were made. Cooling channels, a slim structure and a narrow profile are there for stability, not looks.

The chassis uses aluminium castings at key points, double wishbones placed low, and forged parts for accuracy over feel. Brakes are carbon discs from Brembo, while Michelin developed Cup 2 tyres specifically for this car.

Inside, nothing is there for show. Visibility, easy reach and usable controls were prioritised. It’s simple on purpose.

GR GT3: The competition model

The GR GT3 takes the same building blocks but is aimed directly at the FIA GT3 category. The focus is predictable handling, consistent performance over long stints and a setup that professional drivers and gentleman drivers can both use effectively.

Toyota plans customer support, including parts and technical help, which matters in GT3 where private teams run the cars.

Tested in reality, not only in simulations

Both cars were refined through simulator work and heavy real-world testing at Shimoyama, Fuji Speedway, the Nürburgring and public roads. The development approach was repeat, break, improve. The goal was consistency, not lap record headlines.

Bigger picture

These cars are also intended as teaching tools. Toyota has used projects like the 2000GT and Lexus LFA to grow engineering talent. GR GT and GR GT3 will likely play the same role.

Launch timing is around 2027, with more information expected as development advances.