Lexus and Toyota reveal GR GT and LFR super sports car, 800 hp hybrid V8, launch 2025 in Tokyo

Lexus and Toyota are preparing for a significant milestone on the global automotive stage with the joint reveal of two high-performance concept sports cars. The online event, scheduled for December 5, 2025, at 11am (Tóquio time), will present the long-awaited GR GT and its sophisticated luxury sibling, the LFR, both the result of collaborative development.

The project, led by Gazoo Racing, aims to redefine performance standards, incorporating a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with a hybrid system. This configuration is expected to reach an impressive power of 800 horsepower, promising an unprecedented driving experience.

Before the official announcement, Toyota had already released teasers that showed prototypes undergoing intense tests at the renowned Nürburgring circuit and the Fuji Speedway, indicating the seriousness and focus on extreme performance of these new vehicles.

Among the pillars of development, the following stand out:

– Plataforma shared between brands, optimizing resources and technologies.
– Ambição to inherit the legacy of icons such as the Lexus LFA and the Toyota 2000GT.
– Previsão of a GT3 racing variant, reinforcing the models’ competitive ability.

Identity and design revealed in teasers

Toyota has released cryptic images that reveal the details of both models’ taillights, offering a glimpse of their distinct aesthetics. The GR GT features LED bar taillights that extend down the sides, giving it a bold and aggressive look.

In turn, the LFR adopts a more sculpted design, with a double “L” light signature, which evokes the characteristic sophistication of the Lexus. Esses design elements suggest continuity between the 2022 GR GT3 concept and the future Lexus sports concept for 2025, indicating a cohesive and evolved visual language.

Accelerated development in global testing

Since the beginning of 2024, camouflaged prototypes, reminiscent of racing vehicles, have been spotted testing at the Nürburgring circuit, at Alemanha. Essa development phase underlines dedication to on-track performance, with a focus on optimization for racing environments.

The powertrain of the new models is derived directly from the GR010 Hybrid, a vehicle that competed in Le Mans, and will be applied to a carbon monocoque chassis. Essa engineering choice aims to maximize structural rigidity and minimize weight, crucial elements for elite performance.

The full public presentation is scheduled to take place at Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2026, where more technical and aesthetic details will be revealed to the enthusiastic public. Gazoo Racing’s commitment to creating track cars that evolve for road use is fully demonstrated by this initiative, highlighting a fusion between motorsport and vehicular innovation.

V8 hybrid engine increases performance

The engine that powers the new sports cars combines two 2.0-liter turbocharged blocks from the GR series, culminating in a 4.0-liter V8 that delivers 800 horsepower. Este proprietary hybrid system seeks to surpass the performance of strong rivals, such as the 805 horsepower Mercedes-AMG GT, with the ambition of achieving a significant advantage in lap times.

Recently, the chief engineer of Toyota discussed this technology in an interview, highlighting the balance between efficiency and power without compromising reliability. The track-focused variant, equipped with all-wheel drive, projects acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 3 seconds, setting a new standard for the category.

Design distinctions reflect proposals

The GR GT features an aggressive front end, with an enlarged hood to optimize aerodynamics, and sports seats that highlight its vocation for the track. Esta visual approach reinforces the identity of a car designed for pure performance and dynamic driving experience.

Internally, the GR GT contrasts a classic steering wheel with an analogue-digital instrument panel, while the LFR adopts a race car-inspired cockpit with wraparound bucket seats. The Lexus prioritizes luxury and refined finishes, while the Toyota focuses on raw handling and immediate response.

Given the nature of these distinctions, the LFR positions itself as a grand tourer, designed for long journeys in comfort and style, while the GR GT is clearly marketed as a track-focused, no-compromise sports car.

Unique interior and technological heritage

In the GR GT, the central dashboard incorporates a touchscreen and physical controls, ensuring intuitive operation, especially in track environments. Ergonomics are enhanced by elevated, forward-facing seats, which contribute to remarkable cornering precision. The LFR, in turn, inherits the interior style of previous Lexus concepts, featuring a refined digital dashboard and a steering wheel inspired directly by motorsport. Ambos models share a human-centered design philosophy, but each brand applies a unique touch that reflects its identity. Dados of prototypes indicate that the LFR’s weight distribution features 20% less rear bias compared to previous Toyota efforts, resulting in improved dynamics.

Expansion of the line with racing variant

The GR GT3 variant, with its fixed spoilers and side skirts, indicates its intention to be integrated into the GT3 championship. Inicialmente conceived as a track car, the project aims to develop a street version that includes adjustable suspension and carbon-ceramic brakes. Toyota plans to homologate the GT3 in 2027, marking the replacement of the RC F GT3 after 11 years of motorsport service. Este racing model will not be a hybrid, using the same V8 engine, and aims to weigh less than 1,300 kg, highlighting its lightness and agility.

Price forecast and official launch in 2026

The GR GT should compete directly with prestigious rivals like the Porsche 911 GT3, with prices expected to start at $200,000. The Lexus, in turn, will position the LFR as its top model, with the potential to surpass the current LC’s $110,000, reaching the $250,000 range.

Factors such as an 8-speed automatic manual transmission and carbon fiber options will contribute to the vehicles’ final cost. The global launch of both models is scheduled for the end of 2026, followed by the start of series production.

Legacy to mark Japanese icon

This project represents a tribute to the legendary 2000GT and LFA, demonstrating the automotive mastery of the Toyota in Tóquio. Engineers described these models as “born to race”, signaling a new era of performance and innovation.

Tests at the Nürburgring confirmed the exceptional agility of the vehicles, with lap times reaching the 7-minute mark. The online premiere, broadcast via YouTube, captivated fans around the world, making the launch instantly accessible and generating great anticipation in the global market.