Toyota unveils GR GT, a new Gazoo Racing flagship coupe

Toyota has introduced the GR GT, a new two‑door flagship coupe for its Gazoo Racing sporty sub‑brand that the automaker says is set to go on sale toward the end of next year.

Toyota said the car’s styling took a back seat to aerodynamics, producing a Camry‑esque look at the front and, to an extent, the rear. It is built around a highly rigid aluminum frame—Toyota’s first, apparently—with carbon‑fiber used for the hood, roof, and some other body panels to minimize weight. The automaker said lowering the centre of gravity was a top priority, and weight balance and distribution explain the transaxle layout, with the transmission located behind the cockpit between the rear wheels.

The transaxle will be an eight‑speed automatic that uses a wet clutch instead of a torque converter and into which the car’s hybrid motor is integrated. Toyota says power from the 4.0 L twin‑turbo V8 and the hybrid system should be a combined 641 hp (478 kW) and 626 lb‑ft (850 Nm). Despite the aluminum frame and composites, the GR GT will weigh as much as 3,858 lb (1,750 kg). The V8 is described as a new design with a short stroke, a hot‑V turbocharger layout, and dry‑sump lubrication.

Toyota says the GR GT looks set to reach showrooms toward the end of next year; the source did not provide further launch or pricing details.

Key Topics

Tech, Toyota, Gr Gt, Gazoo Racing, Transaxle Layout, Carbon Fiber