Toyota officially took the wraps off the GR GT and its race-prepped GR GT3 variant. Positioned as a flagship in the footsteps of the Lexus LFA and the Toyota 2000GT, the GR GT is a road-legal race car. Underpinned by Toyota’s first all-aluminum body frame, it makes extensive use of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP) to keep weight down. Meanwhile, Toyota developed the exterior to prioritize aerodynamics with the help of engineers who have competitive experience. As a result, the GR GT has a low-slung shape and many functional ducts channeling air around it. Furthermore, its functional aerodynamics enhances cooling performance, further emphasizing the GR GT as a race car for the road.
Stepping inside, the Toyota GR GT screams driver’s car. It emphasizes good visibility and driving position for both circuit and daily use. Additionally, Toyota placed most drive-related controls near the steering wheel, keeping them within the driver’s reach. Toyota even designed the digital gauge cluster to maximize to make it easier to see while driving, especially on a track.
Toyota GR GT: Electrifying Power for the Road and Track
Under the GR GT’s hood is Toyota’s new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This new mill features a hot V configuration, meaning the turbochargers sit in the middle of the two banks of cylinders. It also includes dry-sump lubrication and a thinner oil pan to help keep its packaging compact. Plus, a CFRP torque tube sends power to the rear wheels. It’s also a hybrid because it features an electric motor in the rear. That unit is integrated within a new rear transaxle that also includes a limited-slip differential and a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Total output, you ask? An impressive 650 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. The new rear transaxle also improved the GR GT’s balance and handling. By placing the drive battery, fuel tank, and other heavy components in the rear, the car has a front-to-rear weight distribution of 45:55.
Toyota’s first all-aluminum body frame keeps the GR GT rigid and lightweight. Thanks to the use of large aluminum castings in the frame’s main structure, the optimal placement of aluminum extrusions, and other components, Toyota achieved high rigidity. Additionally, the car’s body panels make extensive use of aluminum and CFRP. Meanwhile, the new forged-aluminum front and rear control-arm suspension optimizes linear response and controllability at the limit and during daily driving. The GR GT also comes with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires designed to work in harmony with the suspension.
For optimum stopping performance, carbon Brembo brakes developed with professional drivers come standard. The GR GT’s Vehicle Stability Control System also allows for multi-stage adjustment of driving force and braking control. This allows the driver to customize the vehicle to match their driving skill level, weather, and more.
Coming to a Road and Track Near You
When will we see the Toyota GR GT in North America? Likely next year. If Toyota decides to bring it here. On the other hand, expect the GR GT3 to hit the track soon, competing at a circuit near you. Expect the production version to come in very limited numbers, making it highly exclusive.
Source: Toyota
One thought on “Toyota GR GT First Look: Yup, It’s Got a V8”
Comments are closed.