One of the most anticipated performance cars of the year has finally broken cover as Toyota unveiled the long-awaited successor to the Lexus LFA at Fuji Speedway, dubbed the GR GT. While the V10 is absent, there’s a lot to like about this new JDM superstar, starting with the engine: an entirely new 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that Toyota promises will produce in excess of 650 horsepower. Toyota has also stated that the GR GT will employ a hybrid drivetrain, but we expect something close to Porsche’s lightweight T Hybrid system.
Visually, the GR GT certainly couldn’t be accused of stealing anyone’s style. Debuting alongside the GR GT3 racer, the two cars were developed in conjunction for maximum performance on and off the racetrack, with form largely following function. Even so, it looks every bit the front-mid-engined supercar, sitting at just under 1.2 metres tall, exactly 2 metres wide, and over 4.8 metres long, the GR GT is undeniably imposing in these images, and we’re sure it will leave even more of an impression when seen in the metal. With the expected weight to tip the scales at 1,750 kg or lower, it won’t be a featherweight, but it isn’t exactly porky by modern standards either, while the weight distribution is split 55-45 front to rear. Combine the GR GT’s slippery aerodynamics with the thrust provided by that V8, and Toyota promise a top speed in excess of 200mph.
Climb inside the GR GT, and you’ll discover a somewhat utilitarian cabin. The materials look luxurious enough, with plenty of leather, Alcantara, and carbon fibre, but the layout is refreshingly straightforward and frill free, further strengthening the ties to its racing counterpart. Under the skin, the GR GT boasts an ultra-stiff all-aluminium chassis, while the body panels are made of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic.
At first impressions, the GR GT seems closer to the SLS or Dodge viper in terms of silhouette than its LFA ancestor, but we’re delighted to see that Japan finally has another fighter in the supercar arena following the retirement of the Nissan GT-R.
