Toyota GR GT3 Spotted Testing at Nürburgring With Expected Lexus V8 Powertrain

(Photo credit: carmagazine)

Toyota GR GT3 Prototype Hits Nürburgring — Signals New Era of GT3 Racing

Toyota Motor Corporation is turning heads again with the Toyota GR GT3, a high-performance sports car prototype recently seen testing at the Nürburgring in Germany. After first appearing at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025, this test mule underscores Toyota’s commitment to entering the GT3 racing segment with an all-new model.

Design Draws Inspiration From GR Concept

Despite heavy camouflage, the car’s silhouette closely mirrors the Toyota GR Concept introduced at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2022. Its front-mid engine layout, rear-wheel drive (RWD), and aerodynamic proportions echo Toyota’s “track-to-road” philosophy seen on the GR Yaris.

Taking Aim at Mercedes-AMG GT3

The prototype has been spotted running alongside Mercedes-AMG GT and AMG Black Series models, suggesting Toyota is directly benchmarking against one of the most successful GT3 platforms on the market.

Potential Powertrain: Lexus V8 or All-New Engine

Engine notes from testing hint at a V8 engine, with two likely candidates:

• A 5.2-liter V8 from the Lexus RC F GT3
• A 5.0-liter V8 from the RC F

There’s also speculation Toyota could develop an all-new powerplant or even integrate a hybrid system in later versions, signaling flexibility for both racing and road applications.

Styling Between Supra and LFA

The prototype’s sharp headlights, wide stance, and long hood suggest a design language positioned between the Toyota Supra and Lexus LFA. This blend gives the GR GT3 its own unique identity while emphasizing track-bred performance.

Role in Global Motorsport

Once officially launched, the Toyota GR GT3 is expected to compete alongside the GR010 Hypercar—already a winner in the WEC and Le Mans. This move would expand Toyota’s motorsport footprint, potentially influencing future participation in WRC and even F1 collaborations, such as with Team Haas.

Summary

The sighting of the Toyota GR GT3 at Nürburgring is a strong signal that Toyota is preparing to shake up the high-performance racing and road car market. With its anticipated Lexus V8 engine, track-focused engineering, and GR Concept styling cues, the GR GT3 could become Toyota’s next big halo car—first on the track, and later on public roads.

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