Toyota Presents New GT & GT3 Concept At Higashi-Fuji Plant

Toyota has unveiled prototypes of its new GR GT and GR GT3 and announced its intention to launch both vehicles “around 2027”.

In a presentation that was opened by Operating Officer and Chief Branding Officer Simon Humphries, the company introduced its ‘sports car apex’ with the GR GT and GR GT3 joined by the new Lexus LFA Concept.

Humphries explained how the idea of the new direction for GT and GT3 cars came about.

“I have been working as a designer for 36 years, and I can honestly tell you that as a designer, there is nothing more painful than being told that what you have put your heart and soul into is boring,” he said. “Fourteen years ago at Pebble Beach in America, that is exactly what happened when Akio (Toyoda – Chairman of the Board of Directors) was told on his visit there, “Lexus is boring.”

“No More Boring Cars”: Humphries on the 14-Year Mission

“After that, Akio stood up and made a promise: “No more boring cars.” So when we went to consult with him about how we would present this car at Pebble Beach this year, his answer was very simple: “Just put it out there and let it speak for itself.”

Above: Toyota GR GT3 (Photo: Toyota)

The Toyota GR GT3 features the elements of low centre of gravity and low weight, combined with the high aerodynamic performance found in the GR GT. The car will be homologated to FIA GT3 specification with a ‘driver-first’ principle to appeal to both professional and amateur drivers.

Extensive testing has already been undertaken including sessions at Fuji Speedway and the Nürburgring.

Launch Targeted “Around 2027” – Some Details Still Fluid

It is intended that the GR GT3 will utilise a 4-litre twin-turbo VB sharing many of the structural components used in the GR GT power unit. However, with both vehicles still under development, Toyota has pointed out that ‘details may be subject to change without notice’.

While speaking at the presentation, Akio Toyoda referred to the ‘feeling of humiliation’ he felt when told that his company would never make a competitive GT car.

“I could hear people saying, “No way that you guys at Toyota could build a car like this!” I will never forget that feeling of humiliation. And that pain is definitely the force that drives me even now.”