New Toyota GR GT

200mph V8 Supercar coming 2027

Japan's response to the Mercedes-AMG GT features a new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 as part of a hybrid drivetrain, delivering an estimated 641bhp and 627lb ft to the rear wheels via a carbon-fiber-reinforced torque tube. However, the company notes that development is ongoing, and the final figures may be higher.

While no performance metrics have been released yet, aside from a targeted top speed of at least 198mph, achieving a 0-62mph time of around 3.5 seconds is well within possibility.

Power is transmitted through an all-new eight-speed automatic gearbox, which, similar to the AMG's seven-speed version, uses a wet clutch instead of a torque converter to ensure "world-class shift speeds," along with a mechanical limited-slip differential.

The GR GT, named after Toyota's Gazoo Racing performance division, is described as being designed as a "road-legal race car." In fact, both the road-going and GT3-spec racing versions were revealed at the same time, highlighting that they were developed entirely in parallel.

The engine is described as "thoroughly light and compact" due to its 'hot vee' configuration, with the turbos positioned inside the cylinder banks, along with the dry-sump lubrication system and a slim oil pan.

Toyota is likely to use the engine in other projects, considering the significant time and resources invested in its development, but has not yet indicated what those might be. Importantly, Toyota states it will ensure the engine meets "increasingly stringent emissions regulations" to keep it in production for years to come.

The sound was a key focus in the engineering process. Toyota aimed for the V8 to provide "not only high-level performance but also the distinctive racing sound of a V8 twin-turbo engine". The exhaust is said to have been "meticulously crafted to produce sound that synchronises with the state of the vehicle".

The EV motor is positioned in front of the gearbox and functions to bridge the gap during gear changes, preventing any loss of torque. 

The GR GT's design, honed for racing, is clear in its aerodynamically optimized styling and driver-centric cockpit. According to Toyota, it is tailored for use by "both professional and gentleman drivers" and is suitable for both track and everyday driving.

Interestingly, neither version of the GR GT displays a Toyota badge on its exterior or interior, reflecting the establishment of GR as a distinct brand within the Toyota group, similar to Lexus or Century.

The cabin's priorities were to maximize visibility, enhance the sense of protection, and provide "the ideal driving position." Special attention has been given to ensuring all switches are well-shaped and easily accessible, aiming for "excellent operability". 

Reducing weight and enhancing rigidity are key focuses in the development of the GR GT, with Toyota striving for the GR GT to deliver "a linear response and a high level of controllability" both on the track and in urban settings. 

This is the first Toyota to feature an aluminium body-in-white, with the exterior panels partially made of aluminium as well. The main suspension components are also aluminium, while the brake discs are carbon units from Brembo.

As a result, Toyota stated that the GR GT will weigh under 1750kg, making it about 300kg lighter than the four-wheel-drive AMG and nearly the same kerb weight as the rear-driven Aston Martin Vantage. 

This low kerb weight, distributed 45% at the front and 55% at the rear, combined with a specially developed stability control system inspired by Toyota's Le Mans racer, will enable the GR GT to meet its goal of allowing "the driver to interact seamlessly with the car on circuits, as well as on winding roads and other public highways".