Three years have passed since Toyota first introduced its GR GT3 race car concept at the 2022 Tokyo Motor Show, and new spy photos indicate that significant strides have been made toward realizing this ambitious project. The upcoming sports coupe is anticipated to serve as a spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA, with Toyota’s GR division prioritizing motorsport-focused design and performance in its development. Enthusiasts are eager for a vehicle that embodies advanced technology alongside a rich racing heritage.
Recent spy images reveal the car undergoing rigorous testing in Germany, particularly at the renowned Nürburgring Nordschleife. While the official name remains unconfirmed, speculation suggests that the successor to the LFA could be designated as the LFR. Despite the heavy camouflage, the test models display striking similarities to the original concept, and reports indicate that at least two prototypes are currently being evaluated, each featuring different configurations for a fixed rear wing. This points to Toyota’s commitment to refining both aerodynamics and performance in the new design.
Although specific details about the powertrain have yet to be officially disclosed, expectations are high for a hybrid V-8 engine. Audio captured during testing in Belgium lends credence to this possibility, suggesting a combination of electric and gasoline power. The prototype features yellow warning stickers typically associated with hybrid vehicles, and witnesses have reported that it operates silently before the engine engages, reinforcing the likelihood of a hybrid configuration.
Spy photos also provide intriguing insights into the car’s interior, which, despite being adorned with various testing instruments, reveals several notable features. The use of carbon fiber in the door and hood underscores a focus on weight reduction and enhanced performance. While the transmission tunnel appears unfinished, an automatic gear selector is visible, alongside indications of Toyota’s latest infotainment and HVAC systems integrated into the dashboard, suggesting a modern yet functional interior.
The involvement of Toyota’s GR division is evident, with reports indicating that the prototype has already completed laps at the Nürburgring in under eight minutes. This accomplishment aligns with Toyota and Lexus’s strategic direction to create a competitive entry for the GT3 class, moving away from the design philosophy applied to the RC F GT3. David Wilson, president of Toyota Racing Development, highlighted the necessity of a race-oriented design from the beginning to ensure that the production model meets rigorous performance standards, a principle that seems to guide the development of the new GR GT3.
