Discussion and speculation around production of the GR GT3 Concept that TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) unveiled almost 3 years ago has become increasingly frequent, fueled largely by recent spy photos and videos. These sightings showcased a prototype vehicle with design heavily influenced by the Toyota GR GT3 Concept including key features like a long hood, redesigned rear diffuser, quad tailpipes, and a fixed rear spoiler. Video footage, including multiple rounds of testing at the infamous Nürburgring in Germany, reveals the sound of what is likely a high performance V8 engine (and potential hybrid), further heightening anticipation for its release.
This vehicle has also been believed to be the successor to the Lexus LFA, and rumored to be called LFR, but there has also been speculation about it being produced as a Toyota model, or even a GR branded vehicle. I will break down everything Lexus Enthusiast knows about the GR GT3 Concept and upcoming Lexus LFR.
Toyota first unveiled the GR GT3 concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon on January 14, 2022, marking a significant step in its motorsport journey. This reveal emphasized Toyota Gazoo Racing’s commitment to building vehicles inspired directly by motorsport.
Unlike road-legal homologation specials, the GR GT3 is a purpose-built racing machine designed to comply with GT3 regulations. The concept reflects Toyota’s strategy to expand its presence in high-level motorsport events, including the FIA World Endurance Championship and Le Mans 24 Hours, which recently transitioned to GT3 rules.
The GR GT3 aims to support private racing teams while leveraging the technological advancements gained on the track to influence future road car development. This approach showcases Toyota’s focus on creating performance-driven vehicles that bridge the gap between motorsport innovation and consumer markets.
Lexus LFR and Toyota GR GT
Toyota filed the trademark for the “Lexus LFR” with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) on October 14, 2022. This move is widely believed to confirm the name of the upcoming Lexus supercar, often referred to as the successor to the iconic Lexus LFA. While the specifics of the vehicle are still under wraps, the trademark filing has fueled excitement about its potential features and electrified performance.
Toyota also filed the trademark application for “GR GT” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on January 19, 2023. This filing sparked significant speculation about its connection to Toyota’s GT3 racing project and potential development of a road-going version of the GR GT3 Concept car.
One car, two versions?
2024 has proven to be a pivotal year for this upcoming sports car as it has been captured in multiple spy shots and testing on public roads which signals that the project is nearing its final stages. But when all is said and done, will it be just one car?
Recently, Best Car shared that two variants of the GR GT3 Concept might be greenlit for production: a Lexus and a Toyota.
This theory could very well be true as there are trademark filings that validate the potential existence of a Lexus LFR as well as a Toyota GR GT. We can expect to hear more information and possibly a debut of the Lexus LFR and/or Toyota GR GT at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon held next year on January 10, 2025.
Why won’t the LFR be called “LFA”?
The upcoming Lexus LFR won’t carry the “LFA” name primarily because it represents a departure and evolution in Lexus’s high-performance lineup, rather than being a direct continuation of the iconic LFA. The LFA, famous for its naturally aspirated V10 engine and lightweight carbon-fiber construction, has a legendary status that Lexus is respecting by allowing it to stand apart as a unique achievement.
The LFR, by contrast, is designed to showcase new technology and align with the brand’s advancements in motorsports and GT3 racing. This marks a shift from the LFA’s focus on pure driving emotion to a more modern, race-derived performance ethos. The name “LFR” reflects this new chapter and positions this sports car as distinctly different from the LFA.
