Toyota is preparing to introduce its next-generation GT3 race car in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026, coinciding with the launch of a corresponding road car. The news, reported by Motorsport.com, reveals that the race car, based on the Toyota GR GT3 concept showcased at the 2022 Tokyo auto salon, was initially slated to debut in 2025. However, delays in developing the road car led to a one-year postponement.
While the Lexus RC F currently holds homologation for the GT3 category, the GR GT3 concept strongly suggested that Toyota, Japan’s largest automaker, intended to renew its commitment to GT3 racing. Following the concept’s unveiling, leaked patent drawings provided further evidence that Toyota was progressing with the production of the GR GT3.
Since the GT3 class necessitates a foundation in road-legal models, it was inevitable that the GR GT3, which is not based on any existing Toyota vehicle, would give rise to a road car. This road car could potentially carry the Lexus badge, allowing the GR GT3 to replace the aging RC F. Additionally, Lexus has displayed an electric supercar concept with proportions strikingly similar to those of the GR GT3.
Toyota’s decision to deviate from its existing platforms for the GR GT3 is attributed to the opportunity it provides for engineers to explore new technologies that could be applied in future road car and racing ventures.
Toyota already offers a Supra GT4 customer race car, as well as Supra-branded race cars for Japan’s Super GT touring car series. Furthermore, it competes in the Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) prototype class of the WEC. Thus, the upcoming GT3 race car will bridge the gap between the lower-level GT4 and touring car classes and the prototypes, granting Toyota a presence in nearly every tier of sports car racing.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about GT3 race car
When will Toyota’s next-generation GT3 race car debut?
Toyota’s next-generation GT3 race car is scheduled to make its competition debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2026.
Is there a road-car counterpart to the GT3 race car?
Yes, Toyota will unveil a road-car counterpart alongside the GT3 race car.
What was the inspiration for the GT3 race car?
The GT3 race car is based on the Toyota GR GT3 concept that was showcased at the 2022 Tokyo auto salon.
Why was the initial debut of the GT3 race car delayed?
Delays in the development of the road car, which is based on the race car, led to the postponement of the GT3 race car’s debut.
Will the road car be badged as a Lexus?
There is a possibility that the road car may be badged as a Lexus, offering a potential replacement for the aging RC F model.
Does Toyota already participate in other racing categories?
Yes, Toyota offers the Supra GT4 customer race car and Supra-badged race cars for Japan’s Super GT touring car series. They also compete in the Le Mans Hypercar (LMH) prototype class of the WEC.
More about GT3 race car
- Motorsport.com
- Toyota GR GT3 Concept
- FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC)
- Lexus Official Website
- Supra GT4
- Super GT Official Website
- Le Mans Hypercar (LMH)
- Toyota Global
5 comments
So the GT3 race car was gonna race in 2025 but now its delayed because of the road car. Makes sense I guess. Hope they fix it soon!
GT3 race car, Supra GT4, Super GT, LMH prototypes – Toyota is covering all bases! Exciting times for sports car racing fans!
Interesting that Toyota chose not to base the GT3 on their existing platforms. Testing new tech is always a good move for road cars and racing programs.
Love the Lexus RC F, but a new road car based on the GT3? Sounds like a dream come true! Can’t wait to see what Lexus has in store!
toyota next-gen GT3 race car?? cool! 2026 WEC debut, road-car too? cant wait! GR GT3 concept looks sick!