Toyota unveils GR GT3 racer concept in Tokyo

TOYOTA Motor Corporation has previewed no fewer than five attention-grabbing new models at the Tokyo Auto Salon, including a sporty GR GT3 racer, a rugged plug-in hybrid version of the Lexus NX SUV, a hydrogen-powered off-road buggy from Lexus, the rather snazzy bZ4X GR Sport Concept, as well as an even more hardcore version of the GR Yaris – the Japan-only GRMN Yaris.

The Toyota GR GT3 Concept was unveiled by Gazoo Racing president Koji Sato and Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) president Akio Toyoda. The pair said the model would debut as a running prototype later this year and that it would compete in the global GT3 series (for cars based on production models).

With a long bonnet, pointed nose and raked rear-end, the GR GT3 resembles nothing in the current Toyota or Lexus line-up; instead, it draws its styling cues from a blend of the fourth generation A80-series Supra, 2000GT and Lexus LFA.

Gazoo Racing’s current GT3 car is based on the Lexus RC F and competes in 24-hour races including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and Nurburgring 24 Hours. The new model is expected to follow suit with Sato-san saying “the first order was to develop a car that can win races”.

Toyota also debuted its Japan-only GRMN Yaris hot hatch. Developing 200kW from its 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine, the ¥7.32 million ($A88,800) model is available in GRMN and GRMN Circuit Package variants, the latter with an astonishing asking price of ¥8.47 million – or $A102,750.

The now sold-out GR Yaris was available in Australia from $49,500 (plus on-road costs).

TMC also showed a pumped-up version of its forthcoming bZ4X electric SUV – the bZ4X GR Sport Concept, which features larger wheels and tyres, sports seats and off-road body cladding; an off-road-focused NX plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) Offroad Concept; plus a two-seat hydrogen-powered off-road buggy known as the ROV (Recreational Off-highway Vehicle) Concept, with a 1.0-litre three-cylinder hydrogen-fuelled engine and selectable all-wheel drive.

TMC president and renowned car guy Akio Toyoda finished his presentation at the Tokyo Auto Salon by throwing shade at rival, Nissan, who were due to present their upcoming Z sports car later the same day. 

A grinning Toyoda-san said: “All of you at Nissan, we will never lose to your Z! Are you listening?!”.