Toyota has unveiled its new flagship supercar, the GR GT - a 641bhp, twin-turbo V8 hybrid that will hit showrooms in around two years. Designed to take on the Mercedes-AMG GT and Aston Martin Vantage, it promises a top speed of at least 198mph and 0–62mph in roughly 3.5 seconds.
Developed in parallel with its GT3 race version, the GR GT has been engineered as a “road-legal race car”. Toyota chairman and master driver Akio Toyoda worked closely with the team, supported by top Japanese racing drivers, to ensure a strong connection between car and driver.
The GR GT forms part of a new performance “trinity” alongside the electric Lexus LFA successor, showcasing Toyota’s technical capabilities and feeding engineering expertise to the next generation. Engineers from the original LFA programme were brought back to pass on their experience.
Power comes from a new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 in a hybrid setup, sending 641bhp and 627lb ft to the rear wheels through a carbonfibre-reinforced torque tube. Toyota says the numbers may rise before production. The engine uses a compact ‘hot-vee’ layout, dry-sump lubrication and a slim oil pan, and it has been designed to meet future emissions rules so it can remain in production for years.
Toyota also prioritised engine sound, tuning the exhaust to deliver a sharp, race-inspired V8 note that responds to how the car is being driven.
Power is managed by a new eight-speed automatic with a wet clutch for faster shifts, paired with a mechanical limited-slip differential. An electric motor sits ahead of the gearbox to smooth out torque delivery during gearchanges.
The car’s design reflects its racing roots, with aggressive aero and a cockpit focused on visibility, protection and a perfect driving position. Switchgear has been shaped and positioned for easy use on both road and track. Notably, the GR GT carries no Toyota badges, reinforcing GR’s growing identity as its own performance brand.
Weight reduction has been a major priority. The GR GT is Toyota’s first car with an aluminium body-in-white, and the upper panels and suspension components are also aluminium. Brembo carbon brake discs help shave further mass. Toyota says the GR GT will weigh under 1750kg - around 300kg lighter than the four-wheel-drive AMG GT and close to the rear-drive Vantage.
A 45:55 weight distribution and stability technology derived from Toyota’s Le Mans programme aim to give the car sharp, predictable handling on both circuits and winding roads.
