Tag Archives: toyota gazoo racing

NEWS

Is this the all-new Toyota GR Celica?

A mysterious rally car, believed to be the Toyota GR Celica, has been spotted undergoing testing in Portugal.

Based on images and videos that have surfaced on social media, the vehicle features a two-door coupe body style, adorned with Toyota Gazoo Racing camouflage stickers.

It also sports a relatively tall rear spoiler, a roof scoop, and wide fenders.

Not much information has been disclosed at this time, but it is highly likely that this is the Celica, which will join the lineup of upcoming GR high-performance cars.

‘Celica’ last seen two years ago

At SEMA 2024, Toyota showcased a vehicle called the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept.

This car has been referred to as a preview model for the Celica based on the following features:

  • A classic livery inspired by the 90s Celica WRC
  • A new G16E-GTS 1.6L turbo engine replacing the original boxer engine
  • The GR-Four all-wheel-drive system

 

Celica with a 2.0L engine?

Let’s not forget that Toyota is also developing a new generation 2.0-liter inline-four engine that could be applied to high-performance vehicles.

The ‘red top’ engine with a displacement of 2.0 liters and a turbocharger is said to generate over 400 PS and 500 Nm of torque.

Compared to the existing 2.4-liter turbo engine, this new unit offers a more compact package and significantly more power.

The new engine would be a perfect fit for the Celica.

NEWS

TGR Asia Esports 2025: Chong Kai Chang achieves third place, Malaysia finishes strong in second!

Malaysian racer Chong Kai Chang achieved an impressive third place in the recently concluded Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Asia Esports GT 2025 championship held last weekend.

The tournament featured fierce competition among fifteen sim racers from Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia, represented by Taj Aiman, Iqbal Suji, and Chong Kai Chang, using the Gran Turismo 7 platform.

In the individual category, Indonesian racer Andika Rama topped the podium with a total of 74 points, followed closely by his compatriot Moreno Pratama with 62 points.

Chong Kai Chang accumulated a total of 59 points.

With two drivers dominating the podium, Indonesia scored a total of 169 points in the country category, followed by Malaysia with 151 points and Singapore with 93 points.

The top three individuals and teams each took home cash prizes of USD 8,000 (RM 33,176), USD 4,500 (RM 18,662), and USD 3,000 (RM 12,441), respectively.

Special awards were also presented to recognize outstanding performances, as follows:

  • Driver of the Day: Andika Rama (Indonesia)
  • Best Racecraft Driver: Chong Kai Chang (Malaysia)
  • Fastest Race Pace: Fadtris Isa (Singapore)

The final races took place at three different locations: Suzuka Circuit (Japan) using the GR Yaris, Interlagos (Brazil) with the GR010 Hybrid, and finally at Watkins Glen (United States) using the GR Supra.

Recordings of the TGR Asia Esports GT 2025 championship can be viewed through the link below:

 

NEWS

Nabil Azlan crowned champion in the Pro Class of the 2025 Toyota GR Malaysia eRacing Championship

The 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia eRacing Championship concluded last weekend, showcasing remarkable performances from the country’s top simulation racers vying for a total cash prize of RM123,000.

Organized by UMW Toyota Motor, this championship also serves as a platform to discover the new generation of national racers.

There are two main categories: the Pro Championship, featuring elite simulation racers, and the Campus Tour, an initiative that brings professional-grade simulators to local universities to scout for new talent.

After three intense races in the final round, which was also the fourth and fifth rounds of the championship, siblings Nabil and Naquib Azlan emerged as the champion and overall runner-up in the Pro Class.

Meanwhile, Taj Izrin Aiman secured third place, successfully defending his GT title.

Twenty-six-year-old Taj Aiman will represent Malaysia at the Toyota GR Asia eSports GT Championship in Bangkok this November, joined by Iqbal Suji in second place and Chong Kai Chang in third.

This year, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia eRacing Championship featured a multi-platform format, including Assetto Corsa, RaceRoom, iRacing, and Gran Turismo 7.

Each platform showcased unique handling dynamics, compelling racers to adapt to various racing conditions, closely resembling international league standards.

This new format also saw 35 percent of the semi-final participants consisting of newcomers, many of whom have prior experience in sim racing.

According to Nabil, who took home a prize of RM25,000, “This year’s championship format is very different; it is not only better but also more challenging, forcing us to learn and adapt.

“Each platform tests various aspects of driving techniques and racing strategies. Sim racing has taught me to become a better and more competitive racer,” he added.

Additionally, the final race of the Campus Tour featured the ten fastest participants from each university, with Randy Goh from INTI Subang emerging as the champion.

Moreover, a Media Exhibition Race involved ten media practitioners who experienced the thrill of using professional simulators for the first time.

In the meantime, Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia has also announced the opening of registrations for the Toyota Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development program for the 2026 intake.

Open to simulation racers and kart racers aged between 16 and 22, the program offers a comprehensive training package under the guidance of professional mentors.

It has proven to be a platform that has produced many renowned racers in Malaysia.

Those interested can register at the website tyt.my/rookiesignup2026 before the application deadline on October 26, 2025.

NEWS

Toyota developing new GR86 using Mazda MX-5 platform?

Through its collaboration with Subaru, Toyota introduced the sports car 86 at the Tokyo Motor Show in December 2011.

The second generation of the 86 known as the GR86, debuted in 2020 with Toyota continuing its partnership with Subaru.

But what about the third generation?

Japanese automotive website Best Car claims that Toyota will develop a new GR86 independently, although it may seek assistance from Mazda to lead the project.

The new GR86 will be built on a new ultra-lightweight platform that will also be utilized for the development of the next-generation Mazda MX-5.

Unlike the approach used for the GR86/BRZ, the new GR86 and MX-5 will feature many differences.

According to Best Car’s report, the MX-5 will remain a two-seater sports car, while the same platform will be slightly lengthened to allow the GR86 to retain its 2+2 coupe configuration.

Both models will also utilize different engines, with the MX-5 featuring a Mazda-made 2.0L hybrid engine and the GR86 using a Toyota-configured 2.0L hybrid engine.

This is not the first time the Mazda MX-5 has served as a base for the development of other manufacturers’ models.

The fourth-generation ND served as the foundation for the Fiat 124 Spider, which features a different design and powertrain, followed by Japanese manufacturer Mitsuoka for the Rock Star model.

NEWS

2026 Toyota GR Corolla upgraded for the Japanese market

As a fan of high-performance Japanese cars, you should express your gratitude to Akio Toyoda, a key figure at Toyota.

Akio, affectionately known as Morizo, believes that motorsports serves as the ideal platform for developing the best street cars.

Thanks to his vision, we now see one of the key Gazoo Racing model, the hot hatch GR Corolla now receiving a new enhancement package without a long wait.

Here are the changes introduced to the GR Corolla:

  1. An increase in chassis structural adhesive from 13.9 meters to 32.7 meters for a sturdier and more stable chassis, capable of handling vertical and lateral G-forces.

  2. A new cooling duct has been added to the second air intake, aimed at stabilizing engine output under high-temperature driving conditions.

  3. The JBL Premium audio system has been improved with the addition of a subwoofer in the cargo area, complemented by the Active Noise Control (ANC) system.

  4. Additionally, the Active Sound Control (ASC) system enhances the sporty sound profile during acceleration and deceleration. Even when the throttle is released, this system generates a pop from the exhaust.

In terms of power, the 2026 GR Corolla continues to feature the G16E-GTS engine, capable of producing 300 hp and 400 Nm, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic.

For current GR Corolla owners, Toyota Gazoo Racing will introduce a software-inclusive upgrade program designed to increase torque from 370 Nm to 400 Nm.

The GR-Four drive system will also be upgraded, with the distribution ratio of 30:70 being replaced by a Gravel mode (50:50), while the Track mode (50:50) can be adjusted to 60:40 and 30:70.

In Japan, the 2026 Toyota GR Corolla is priced starting at ¥5,680,000 (RM161,000) for the manual version and ¥5,980,000 (RM169,000) for the automatic version.

NEWS

Toyota Gazoo Racing unveils Aero Performance package for GR Yaris

Do you think that with the power upgrade and automatic transmission offering, the Toyota GR Yaris is already perfect?

It seems your assumption is completely wrong, once again!

Officials at Toyota Gazoo Racing still see room for improvement in this model with the introduction of the “Aero Performance” package for the GR Yaris.

Developed through extensive racing experience and input from professional drivers, this latest package can maximize the aerodynamic performance and cooling aspects of the hot hatch.

The Aero Performance package includes six components, five of which are designed to enhance stability at high speeds and aerodynamic performance, such as the front fender vents, fuel tank undertray, rear bumper vents, and adjustable rear wing.

The addition of the front lip spoiler is based on feedback from professional racer Oshima to reduce front lift, thereby improving the aerodynamic balance of the vehicle.

Cooling is addressed by an aluminum engine hood with vents, sharing the same design as the carbon fiber hood used in the GRMN Yaris model.

The basic specifications of the GR Yaris remain unchanged, featuring the G16E-GTS engine that generates 304 PS and 400 Nm of torque, with a choice of either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed DAT transmission and the GR-Four all-wheel drive system.

In Japan, the Toyota GR Yaris with the Aero Performance package is priced starting at 4,055,000 yen (approximately RM115,911).

NEWS

Vios Challenge: third round this weekend will be decisive

The third round of the Vios Challenge will take place at the PETRONAS International Circuit (SIC) from August 8 to 10.

Taking place concurrently with the 2025 Malaysian Touring Car Championship, this race will be decisive for the final outcomes of the Vios Challenge across three categories: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.

So far, the overall points standings remain tight among the top three drivers in each category.

In the Super Sporting class, fierce competition is expected between 2023 champion Mitchell Cheah (Team Prima Pearl SP Selatan), who is currently in first place with 83 points, and Freddie Ang (Telagamas Toyota), who has 81 points, followed by Ady Rahimy (Laser Motor Racing) with 72 points.

In the Sporting category, Jwan Hii (Hong Kuat X Armada KK Racing) holds a comfortable lead with 85 points, ahead of Elson Lew (BAE Racing) with 76 points and Varunchit Wattanathanakun (RUK Team Nexzter PMC) with 62 points.

The Rookie class features intense competition between Aydan Khaliq and Rahul Dev, who are currently at the top with 94 and 93 points, respectively.

Third place is held by Harkiesh Geeva with 72 points, followed by Ian James with 71 points, and the only female driver in the category, Genevieve Ooi, with 66 points.

Similar to the second round, all three classes of the Vios Challenge will compete in a combined one-hour semi-endurance race around the full 5.543 km circuit.

NEWS

Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept to debut at Rally Finland

The Rally Finland event, set to take place from July 31 to August 3, will witness the debut of a vehicle specially developed by Toyota Gazoo Racing and powered by hydrogen.

The rally vehicle in question is the Toyota GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept, built on the proven GR Yaris Rally2 chassis.

Developed at the TGR-WRT headquarters located in Jyväskylä, Finland, the true capabilities of this hydrogen rally vehicle have also been tested on roads around the area, including the gravel surfaces typically used in Rally Finland.

For its inaugural appearance, the GR Yaris Rally2 H2 Concept will be driven by four-time world champion Juha Kankkunen, who is also the deputy principal of the TGR-WRT team.

The combination of Toyota and hydrogen engines is not unfamiliar in the world of motorsports.

Hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines were used in racing through the Corolla vehicle in 2021, during the Super Taikyu endurance racing series.

This technology was showcased on the European rally stage for the first time in 2022 with the experimental GR Yaris H2 at the FIA World Rally Championship round in Belgium, driven by Akio Toyoda and Juha Kankkunen.

Unlike the GR Yaris Rally1, which uses a four-cylinder inline engine, the GR Yaris Rally2 uses the same engine found in the production version of the GR Yaris, which is the G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbo unit.

However, the fuel supply and injection systems have been modified to accommodate hydrogen fuel.

More importantly, this engine still manages to deliver performance, as well as the sound and sensations that rally fans crave, all while achieving near-zero emissions—a feat that is challenging for any high-performance EV to provide.

 

NEWS

2025 Super GT Festival Malaysia offers Toyota GR Supra as grand prize for lucky visitor

Visitors to the Festival Super GT Malaysia 2025, scheduled from June 26 to 28, will have a chance to take home a Toyota GR Supra valued at RM650,000.

This grand prize is brought to you by HARO Sports & Entertainment, the rights holder and promoter for the Super GT Malaysian round.

To qualify, you simply need to make a purchase using Mastercard from June 1 to June 28 for the following tickets:

  • Main Grandstand (RM250)
  • GT Suite (RM350)
  • GT Live! Rock Zone (RM500)
  • GT Club Paddock (RM2,000)
  • Experience Package (RM5,000)
  • Ultimate Package (RM12,000)
  • Dream Package (RM15,000)

Purchases of K1 Grandstand tickets do not qualify for the lucky draw.

The name of the lucky winner will be announced live during the post-race concert, GT Live!

 

In addition to the GT300 and GT500 Super GT races, the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit will also host the second round of the Vios Challenge Season 8, along with the inaugural GR86 Cup Malaysia Series.

Furthermore, Malaysian fans can look forward to wildcard entries from two local drivers, Jazeman Jaafar and Adrian D’Silva, competing in the GT300 class.

Both drivers will race in the Aston Martin Vantage GT3 EVO of team EBM, with Jazeman teaming up with Kerong Li, while D’Silva will partner with Earl Bamber.

The Festival Super GT Malaysia 2025 will also be enlivened by the presence of a booth from the Japan Football Association (JFA), where fans can purchase exclusive Samurai Blue merchandise, including replica uniforms and traditional happi coats.

Tickets can be purchased through the website www.supergtmalaysia.com.

Alternatively, you can visit the Festival Super GT Malaysia locations at Sungei Wang Plaza (May 29 – June 1 & June 6 – 8) and Lot 10 (June 3 – 5) to participate in a variety of exciting activities, including chances to win admission tickets and exclusive merchandise.

NEWS

Limited edition Morizo x G-Shock DW5600 now available – starting from RM654 in Japan

Toyota Gazoo Racing has announced the release of a limited edition G-Shock watch in conjunction with the Fuji Super TEC 24 Hour Race at Fuji Speedway (May 31 – June 1).

The Morizo x G-Shock DW-5600 will be sold in limited quantities and is also available on the official Toyota Gazoo Racing online store on Rakuten JP.

Using the G-Shock DW-5600 model as a base, this special edition watch was designed by Morizo, the alias of Toyota’s prominent figure, Akio Toyoda.

It features details such as a yellow color scheme, a yellow G-Shock logo, and MORIZO’s signature, which appears when the light is turned on, along with a cartoon illustration of Morizo on the case back.

Additionally, it boasts the Morizo logo on the watch face and the Morizo RR logo on the watch strap.

The Morizo x G-Shock DW-5600 is priced starting at JPY 22,000 (RM654) via Rakuten JP.

 

NEWS

Four-time GR GT Cup champion shines at 2025 Vios Challenge

The opening round of the Vios Challenge 2025 concluded last weekend, showcasing intense competition between young drivers and veteran racers.

This year’s race featured 36 participants, including entries from Thailand and Singapore, competing across three main classes: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.

Among the highlights of the Vios Challenge 2025 was the debut of four-time GR GT Cup champion Taj Izrin in the Sporting class.

Representing Saksama Motorsports, Taj Izrin delivered an outstanding performance, securing two podium finishes — third place in Race 1 and second place in Race 2.

Meanwhile, in the Rookie Class, simulator driver Ian James claimed the top spot, leaving kart racer Aydan Khaliq more than 13 seconds behind.

Genevieve Ooi, the only female driver in the Rookie Class, achieved third place in the second day of racing.

Aydan was the only Rookie driver to maintain a podium position on both race days.

It is noteworthy that the Rookie racing class is designated for young drivers under the Young Talent Development Program by Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia.

Below is the list of winners for both races that took place over the weekend:

Race 1 (Round 1)

Super Sporting Class

  1. Ady Rahimy (Laser Motor Racing)
  2. Freddie Ang (Telagamas Toyota)
  3. Nabil Azlan (Wheelcorp)

Sporting Class

  1. Adam Mikhail (G-Mart Motorsport)
  2. Jwan Hii (Hong Huat X Armada KK Racing)
  3. Taj Izrin Aiman (Saksama Motorsports)

Rookie Class

  1. Harkiesh Geeva
  2. Aydan Khaliq
  3. Justin Rahul Dev

Race 2 (Round 1)

Super Sporting Class

  1. Mitchell Cheah (Prima Pearl TD Racing)
  2. Nabil Azlan (Wheelcorp)
  3. Eddie Lew (Laser Motor Racing)

Sporting Class

  1. Elson Lew (BAE Racing by ES Yang)
  2. Taj Izrin Aiman (Saksama Motorsports)
  3. Monai (RUK Team Nexzter PMC 52)

Rookie Class

  1. Ian James
  2. Aydan Khaliq
  3. Genevieve Ooi
NEWS

Toyota GR Supra Track Edition lands in Malaysia – from RM698,000

In addition to the launch of the automatic variant of the GR Yaris, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has also announced the availability of the latest Gazoo Racing model, the Toyota GR Supra Track Edition.

Unlike the standard GR Supra model, the Track Edition variant promises a more exhilarating driving experience, thanks to upgrades in the chassis, handling, and aerodynamics.

The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition is powered by a three-liter inline six-cylinder turbo engine that produces 388 PS and 500 Nm of torque, with an option for a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is as quick as 4.1 seconds, or 4.3 seconds for the manual version.

What makes driving the GR Supra Track Edition even more exciting is the use of adaptive suspension system tuned for more effective grip, along with a Track Edition-exclusive recalibration of the power steering system and limited-slip differential (LSD).

The braking system has been upgraded to larger 374 mm front rotors, assisted by Brembo four-piston calipers.

Additionally, enhanced aerodynamic features include wider wheel arches, aero fins, and a carbon fiber ducktail spoiler for increased downforce.

Moreover, Toyota has strengthened the front control arms and adjusted the front negative camber for more agile handling, accompanied by upgraded bushings and sway bars for sharper handling response.

The Toyota GR Supra Track Edition comes with 19-inch matte black alloy wheels fitted with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires.

For the cabin, it features black leather and Alcantara upholstery with GR logo stitching, red seatbelts, a JBL sound system with 12 speakers, a colored head-up display, and a special gear knob for the manual GR Supra.

Standard safety features included in this sports car comprise pre-collision warning, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and emergency braking.

In the Malaysian market, the GR Supra Track Edition is priced starting at RM698,000.

NEWS

Toyota GR Yaris 8-speed automatic variant now available in Malaysia – RM325,600

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced the arrival of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift hot hatch, which is now available in an 8-speed automatic variant.

The introduction of this model complements the previously launched manual version of the Toyota GR Yaris facelift during the conclusion of the seventh season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival in Malaysia.

The GR Yaris continues to feature the 1.6-liter inline 3-cylinder turbo engine, G16E-GTS, which now produces 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque.

With the newly paired automatic DAT transmission, the GR Yaris can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

This high-performance engine is also equipped with a standard cooling package, which includes a sub-radiator, intercooler spray, and a combination of air and fluid ATF coolers to ensure consistent performance, especially under Malaysia’s hot weather.

Additionally, this Automatic variant of the GR Yaris introduces new features such as Launch Control and paddle shifters, which have been fine-tuned based on motorsport experience to provide a more exciting driving experience for everyday journeys.

Finally, it comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes pre-collision warnings, radar cruise control, lane tracing assistance (LTA), and Expert Mode for drivers seeking a more dynamic control without completely disabling the vehicle stability system.

For the Malaysian market, the Toyota GR Yaris AT is priced at RM325,600 and is available at all GR Garage dealers nationwide.

NEWS

2026 Toyota GR Yaris now features aero body kit, more serious driving performance

About a year after the introduction of the facelifted GR Yaris model, Toyota still sees room for improvement in this compact sports car.

For the 2026 model update, Toyota Gazoo Racing has focused on several aspects.

One of the key updates is making the Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) gearbox more responsive to driver input.

Additionally, handling and chassis control have been enhanced with the use of larger-diameter suspension component fasteners, combined with recalibrated shock absorbers and an electric power steering (EPS) system.

Buyers can also opt for a vertical parking brake inspired by rally sports for the new GR Yaris.

Not stopping there, Toyota now offers an aerodynamic body kit (Aero Performance Package), which includes a vented aluminum hood, front lip spoiler, fender vents, flat fuel tank cover, adjustable rear wing, and rear bumper air openings.

The Toyota GR Yaris continues to feature the three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine, generating 304 PS and 400 Nm of torque, paired with the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system and an option for either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic DAT.

In Japan, the GR Yaris is priced between 3,560,000 yen and 5,330,000 yen (approximately RM 109,859 to RM 164,480).

NEWS

2026 Toyota GR86 Yuzu Edition arrives in the U.S. market

1 Comment

Eleven years ago, Toyota launched a special edition sports car under the youth-oriented Scion brand, known as the Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0.

Unfortunately, due to lackluster demand, the Scion brand was discontinued just two years after the FR-S model was introduced.

Now, the spirit of that limited edition car returns with the 2026 GR86 Yuzu Edition, specifically for the American market.

Starting with the Premium variant, Toyota has added a Performance Package that includes Brembo brakes and SACHS dampers to this yellow GR86.

Buyers can also opt for accessories such as a body kit and a quad-tip exhaust system for a more striking appearance.

Lastly, the exterior of this vehicle is enhanced with Yuzu Yellow, complemented by matte black 18-inch alloy wheels.

The cabin of the GR86 features yellow stitching, replacing the red thread found in existing models.

In terms of power, the GR86 Yuzu Edition retains the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, producing 228 hp and 250 Nm of torque, with the option of a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

As standard, this rear-wheel-drive car is equipped with a Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD).

Unlike the FR-S Release Series 1.0, which was limited to 1,500 units, Toyota makes the GR86 Yuzu Edition even more special with only 860 units to be produced.

NEWS

This Toyota GR Supra final edition features more upgrades than Malaysian spec Supra

First revealed in November last year, Toyota Gazoo Racing has officially announced the sales of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition for the Japanese market.

Only 300 units of this Final Edition model will be produced, with 150 units allocated for the Land of the Rising Sun, and the remaining units will be sold in the European market.

What makes the GR Supra A90 Final Edition particularly special is the standard features it offers directly from the factory, compared to the regular GR Supra model.

In terms of performance, the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is equipped with a B58 engine that has been upgraded to deliver 441 PS and 571 Nm of torque, compared to the standard 387 PS and 500 Nm.

Toyota has also optimized the intake and cooling systems, culminating in a titanium Akrapovic exhaust unit.

Moreover, the chassis of the GR Supra has been reinforced with the addition of brace structures in several locations, followed by front and rear stabilizer bars crafted from reinforced aluminum.

KW adjustable suspension is utilized at all four corners, with the camber angle adjusted for both the front and rear wheels.

Contributing to improved handling are the active differential control and an optimized electronic steering system.

The 19-inch front and 20-inch rear aluminum rims are fitted with wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which are 10 mm wider than the standard settings.

The exterior appearance of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition is enhanced by carbon fiber components like the front spoiler and canards, along with a “ducktail” rear wing.

Inside the cabin, there are full Recaro Podium CF bucket seats, red seatbelts, and extensive carbon fiber and Alcantara trim that dominate the interior space.

With the improvements offered in this model, it’s no surprise that Toyota has set a sales price of approximately 15,000,000 yen (RM 443,000), which is higher than that of the GR Supra RZ grade.

Interested parties can register at all GR Garage locations across Japan starting April 13; however, buyers will be selected via a lottery system. Winners (a.k.a the rightful owners) will be announced on May 9.

NEWS

Toyota Gazoo Racing committed to keep engines, manual transmissions alive

220 Comments

High-performance vehicles, internal combustion engines, and manual transmissions.

This is the recipe that Toyota Gazoo Racing aims to uphold for an extended period, signaling good news for its fans worldwide.

In a report by CarSales AU, Toyota Australia executive Sean Hanley stated, “Internal combustion engines and manual transmissions will continue to be maintained for the long term.”

This approach does not mean that Toyota is completely sidelining modern technology for its Gazoo Racing models.

Toyota has previously explored the possibility of replacing petrol with hydrogen for internal combustion engines, even testing this concept extensively through participation in major races.

Currently, Toyota offers four high-performance models (GR Yaris, GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla), and this family of performance vehicles is expected to be joined by new models such as the GR GT3, Celica, and MR2, according to various sources.

There are also reports that Toyota is collaborating with Mazda to develop a sports car featuring a straight-six engine — could this be a replacement for the existing GR Supra?

Whatever Toyota has in store for the future, Hanley wants the Gazoo Racing sub-brand to be better recognized for “the sound, smell, and feel of internal combustion engines.”

NEWS

Toyota files trademark for “GR Celica” in Brazil

5 Comments

If you have been closely following Toyota’s developments, you may have come across some news about the comeback of an iconic name – Celica.

Rumors about the return of the Celica name have been circulating online for years.

However, all speculation was finally put to rest when Vice President Yuki Nakajima confirmed the news of a new Celica model’s development to the public during the Rally Japan event in November 2024.

This news was further strengthened by a recent report indicating that the manufacturer has registered the trademark “GR Celica” in the Brazilian market, dated January 15, and officially published on February 4, according to Carscoops.

With this development, it suggests that the GR Celica model will also be offered in South America alongside primary markets such as Europe and Japan.

Several reports suggest that the GR Celica will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine, generating around 400 hp and paired with the GR-Four all-wheel drive system.

This new engine has already been showcased by Toyota in the GR Yaris M Concept, featuring the G20E code positioned mid-ship.

Two questions arise: Is the GR Yaris M Concept actually an indication of the engine configuration for the GR Celica, or does it refer to another model, namely a successor to the MR2?

NEWS

Toyota puts new G20E engine in GR Yaris M Concept

As the largest automotive manufacturer, Toyota rarely disappoints its fans during the Tokyo Auto Salon events.

For the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota unveiled a prototype hot hatch known as the GR Yaris M Concept.

Unlike the standard GR Yaris, the GR Yaris M Concept is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine (code-named G20E) that replaces the existing three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine.

What’s even more surprising is that the new engine is not positioned at the front; instead, it is placed in a mid-ship layout.

According to Toyota, these changes aim to explore the potential of the GR Yaris hot hatch, and they also plan to race this vehicle in the Super Taikyu series.

This prototype will be fully tested on the racetrack while receiving valuable feedback from professional drivers, including Morizo (Akio Toyoda).

The existence of the GR Yaris M Concept raises a question: is this a significant indicator of the upcoming new MR2 model?

NEWS

Final round of the Vios Challenge season 7 this weekend

Whether we realize it or not, the seventh season of the Vios Challenge, organized by Toyota Gazoo Racing, is now nearing its conclusion this weekend.

The seventh season of the Vios Challenge is proving to be more challenging and unpredictable with the introduction of the fourth generation Vios racing vehicle, driven by 34 racers across three different categories: Super Sporting, Sporting, and Rookie.

Starting in August of last year, the seventh season of the Vios Challenge features three rounds and six individual races, offering a total prize pool of RM630,000.

The Super Sporting class will see an intense battle among notable racers such as Naquib Azlan (Axle Sport), defending champion Mitchel Cheah (Prima TD Racing), Freddie Ang (Telagamas), Amer Harris (Laser Motor Racing), and Hayden Haikal (TD Racing).

The overall champion will take home a prize of RM80,000, followed by RM60,000 for second place and RM40,000 for third.

In the Sporting class, several contenders are poised to be crowned champions, including Elson Lew (BAE Racing by ES Young), Kenneth Koh (PCM Group Racing), and Shafiq Samsudin (Race Rally KL).

This category offers cash prizes of RM60,000, RM40,000, and RM20,000 for the champion, runner-up, and third place winner, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Rookie class, featuring young drivers under the GAZOO Racing Young Talent Development Program, has seen fierce competition among Adam Mikail (18 years old), who has recorded three victories, Brandon Ho (22 years old), who has achieved four podium finishes, and Raja Amirul Syauqat (21 years old), who secured second and third place in the last two races.

The final racing event of the seventh season of the Vios Challenge will take place at the PETRONAS Malaysia International Circuit and will be a closed event, but it will be broadcast live across all UMW Toyota Motor’s social media platforms.

In addition to the racing event, Toyota Malaysia will also introduce three high-performance models: the GR Corolla facelift, Corolla GR Sport, and GR Yaris facelift.