Toyota is preparing a powerful and highly image-defining double blow. After the brand previewed the upcoming all-electric Lexus LFA at Monterey Car Week, a V8 hybrid power coupe followed.
Real sports cars find it difficult to survive on the market today. More and more non-electrified models are disappearing from the portfolios of premium and luxury manufacturers. However, Toyota is going in the opposite direction. The world’s largest automobile manufacturer is reviving several luxury coupes with a four-liter V8, an impressive hybrid boost and real sports car DNA. For those who prefer electric power, the reborn LFA will return as a full battery model. Both new additions are scheduled to arrive in 2027.
Mercedes has long since retired its S-Class Coupé and BMW is phasing out the 8 Series, while many other brands have completely lost their image-rich grand tourers. Toyota shows that despite efficient hybrids and global electric trends, there is room for something different. The new Toyota GR GT is not only the basis for future GT3 racing cars, it is also intended to appeal to wealthy buyers who have previously only relied on Porsche, BMW, Ferrari or Mercedes.
With a length of 4.82 meters, the GR GT is the first Toyota with an aluminum body. This reduces mass and, together with its muscular design, provides the low center of gravity essential for GT3 competition. The development took place with the direct involvement of TMC chairman Akio Toyoda, who himself was a passionate racing driver for decades. Power comes from a four-liter biturbo V8 paired with a hybrid module that produces more than 650 hp and 850 Nm.
In addition to the aluminum body, carefully thought-out aerodynamics and carbon fiber-reinforced plastics ensure downforce and the necessary rigidity. Drive is provided exclusively via the rear axle, with the V8 biturbo and electric motor arranged in a transaxle arrangement and connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The top speed of the coupé, which weighs around 1.8 tons, is over 320 km/h.
For those who prefer pure electric power, the new Lexus LFA will debut in 2027. The near-production concept was presented in August at Monterey Car Week and again at the Japan Mobility Show. The iconic LFA, famous for its charismatic naturally aspirated V10 engine, will return as a fully electric successor. Technical details have not yet been published. The 4.69 meter long concept vehicle shares its underlying architecture with the Toyota GR GT, but is powered exclusively by an electric drive.
