"The new Toyota GR Supra is fitted with a V8 engine, but there's a restriction - you can't take it for a spin."
Toyota Unveils High-Performance GR Supra Gen3 for 2026 Supercars Championship
Toyota has entered the 2026 Supercars Championship with a bang, unveiling the GR Supra Gen3 supercar. This vehicle will compete against V8-powered versions of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro in the prestigious racing series.
The GR Supra Gen3 is not just about a powerful V8 engine; it also boasts a custom body kit designed by Toyota Australia. The car features an aggressive aero kit, including a more prominent splitter, wider fenders, and a large rear wing, which contribute to its striking appearance and improved performance on the track.
The GR Supra Gen3's V8 engine is based on the 5.0-liter naturally aspirated 2UR-GSE V8 engine, also used in Lexus LC 500, RC F, and the 2019 Dakar-winning HiLux rally truck. However, for the Supra Supercars application, this engine has been modified and developed specifically for racing purposes.
The 2UR-GSE engine in the GR Supra Supercars is a purpose-built race engine adapted to comply with Supercars Championship regulations, emphasizing durability and maximum performance under race conditions. While the base 2UR-GSE used in Lexus models and the HiLux rally truck is a 5.0L naturally aspirated quad-cam V8 developed with Yamaha, the Supercars version features extensive engine tuning and component upgrades to extract competitive power output and reliability for the rigors of professional motorsport.
Specific technical modifications likely include enhanced engine internals (such as forged pistons, strengthened valve train), optimized intake and exhaust systems, and race-spec calibration for fuel and ignition. Exact technical details from Toyota or Walkinshaw Andretti United (the homologation and race teams) have not been fully disclosed publicly.
The GR Supra Gen3 will roll on 18-inch alloy wheels shod in slick tyres and will be equipped with beefier AP Racing brakes. Two of the six GR Supra Gen3 supercars will be fielded by Walkinshaw Andretti United, while the remaining four will go to Brad Jones Racing.
The first prototype of the GR Supra Gen3 supercar is set to appear in Sydney on September 1st, with the car making its dynamic debut at the Bathurst 1000 race from October 9-12. Other chassis and modifications of the GR Supra Gen3 supercar remain under wraps for now.
It's worth noting that the road-spec GR Supra has always used BMW-sourced engines, including a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder and a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine. However, Toyota's decision to opt for a V8 engine for the GR Supra Gen3 was made quickly, considering a six-cylinder configuration for only about a minute.
Toyota recently teased the car on Instagram with a short clip, generating excitement among racing enthusiasts. The GR Supra Gen3 supercar is produced in an ultra-limited number of six units, making it a rare sight on the track.
[1] https://www.supercars.com/news/toyota-supra-gen3-supercar-to-race-in-2026/ [4] https://www.motorsport.com/supercars/news/toyota-to-race-supra-gen3-in-supercars-with-v8-engine/10565871/ [5] https://www.speedcafe.com/2023/05/16/exclusive-toyota-to-race-v8-supra-gen3-in-supercars/
- The GR Supra Gen3's V8 engine is not the only technology Toyota has in its arsenal; it also collaborates with prominent industry partners in the finance sector to secure funding for its motorsport initiatives.
- As the GR Supra Gen3 prepares to dominate the 2026 Supercars Championship, Toyota continues to advance in the transportation and automotive industry by exploring disruptive technology, such as autonomous driving and electric vehicle components.
