After months of waiting, rumors, and speculation, Toyota is finally lifting the veil on its new high-end sports car with its GT3 version, along with the Lexus LFA Concept.
The GR GT promises to be a spectacular car on every level. It follows in the footsteps of legendary models such as the Toyota 2000 GT and the Lexus LFA.
A masterpiece of engineering
Toyota has gone all-in on the mechanical side. The GR GT is powered by an all-new Toyota-built 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This powertrain benefits from a mild-hybrid system, bringing total output to 641 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. According to the manufacturer, it can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds, and its top speed exceeds 320 km/h.
Engineers positioned the turbochargers inside the V to achieve faster response.
The Toyota GR GT features a fully aluminum chassis, and the transmission is located at the rear of the car, allowing for an almost perfect weight distribution. Several body components are also made of carbon fiber.
The Japanese automaker’s new sports car comes standard with carbon-ceramic brakes featuring six-piston calipers up front and four-piston calipers in the rear. The wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are particularly appreciated by track enthusiasts. The car’s aerodynamics have also been carefully engineered.
Playing in the big leagues
Toyota has clearly reconnected with performance in recent years, and the Gazoo Racing division is more active than ever. The 86, the Supra, and the GR Corolla have all enjoyed tremendous success since hitting the market, establishing themselves as true benchmarks in their respective categories.
With the GR GT, Toyota is aiming for a whole new milestone, as we’re talking about a car capable of competing with some of the biggest names in the industry, such as the Porsche 911, the Mercedes-AMG GT, or the Ford Mustang GTD. Nevertheless, based on the technical data revealed by Toyota and the car’s overall appearance, I am convinced that the Toyota GR GT will quickly become a legend on the road.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
