It’s only been a few weeks since Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis unveiled the Magma GT concept as a preview of a V8 supercar. Toyota is now following suit with its own performance coupe with the same number of cylinders. They are also arranged in a V8 configuration, but in front and not behind the driver. The GR GT is currently a prototype, but a production version is planned for 2027.
While BMW hesitates to develop a true flagship performance car, its hydrogen fuel cell partner is pushing ahead with the development of a full-fledged supercar. The low-slung coupé hides a completely new 4.0-liter V8 with two turbochargers under its impressively long hood. Since it’s still a work in progress, production numbers aren’t final yet. We know Toyota is aiming for 641 hp and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft), but with an electric twist.
These projected numbers take into account an electric motor mounted in the transmission. Yes, the GR GT is a hybrid, a particularly exciting one. Everything goes to the rear wheels, and the V8 feeds an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission that works with a mechanical limited-slip differential.
The menacing two-seater with quad exhaust system features CFRP and aluminum body panels to keep weight down. Toyota says the GR GT won’t exceed 1,750kg, although the aim is to be lighter. To that end, it’s actually the company’s first car to use an all-aluminum body frame.
Despite a large V8 in front of the driver, the weight distribution is given as 45:55 front/rear. This was made possible by moving some heavy hardware to the rear. The performance data is not yet known, but it can be assumed that acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes less than four seconds. Toyota is flat out confirming that the GR GT will reach at least 200 mph (320 km/h).
20-inch wheels with custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are mounted on both axles and equipped with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes. A double wishbone suspension at the front and rear was developed specifically for the GR GT. The stability control system will be configurable and will allow the driver to set the desired level of rear-end compliance of the vehicle.
While the exterior screams road race car, the cabin looks like it could have come straight out of a Lexus. It’s more luxurious than a typical Toyota interior and suggests more of a GT-like feel than a hardcore setup. You’ll notice that there are no Toyota logos inside or out, and that’s intentional. Gazoo Racing is now a standalone brand, making this car more of a GR than a simple Toyota.
Pricing remains unclear, but when it hits the market in a few years, the 2027 GR GT will almost certainly cost well over $100,000.
