Lexus will reveal its next high-performance sports car alongside the debut of the Toyota GR GT this Friday, December 5th, at 11:00 AM Tokyo time (1:00 PM AEDT). The announcement comes as Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) elevates its Gazoo Racing (GR) division to a core global brand, while repositioning Lexus further into the luxury segment.
Teaser and Expectations
Lexus released a darkened teaser image showing three vehicle silhouettes. Two are road-going sports cars – one Toyota, one Lexus – and the third appears to be a track-focused version possibly designed for GT3 racing. The Lexus model’s rear lighting signature closely resembles that of the Lexus Sport Concept, which debuted earlier this year.
The Context: A Shift in Toyota’s Strategy
The simultaneous launch is significant because it reflects TMC’s restructuring. The GR division is now a major pillar of the company’s future, while Lexus moves to a more exclusive positioning under the Century brand. This means both brands are stepping up their performance game, and these new sports cars are a clear signal of that ambition.
Powertrain Details and Legacy
Both models are expected to feature V8 hybrid power, following confirmation from Toyota’s powertrain chief. The Toyota GR GT is anticipated to utilize a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid, while the Lexus coupe may receive a higher-tuned version. This move marks a return to high-performance V8s for Lexus, potentially signaling a successor to the legendary LFA supercar. The original LFA, a limited-edition V10 coupe, remains highly sought after by collectors.
Beyond Road Cars: Racing Ambitions
The third silhouette in the teaser hints at a track-focused variant, indicating Toyota and Lexus are serious about motorsport. Toyota will enter Australia’s Supercars category in 2026 with a V8-powered Supra, demonstrating a broader commitment to racing.
Production and Availability
The Supra production is ending in March 2026, and orders have already closed in Australia. The unveiling of these new sports cars is the culmination of a campaign that started with the GR GT3 concept at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon. The December 5th live stream will be available on TMC’s YouTube channel.
The launch of these supercars represents a bold move by Toyota and Lexus to reinforce their position in the high-performance market, signaling a new era of aggressive development and brand refinement.
