As we reported earlier, Toyota was planning its all-new "sports car" line-up. Now, Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) has officially announced the launch of the new "GR" sports car series.
The “GR” series is a part of a three-tier system for the carmaker’s sporty offerings. The hardcore GRMN will spearhead this hierarchy, followed by the mid-range "GR", and the entry-level "GR Sport".
The top-spec GRMN series features a performance oriented engine; while the mass-produced GR possesses the ‘essence of GRMN’, says Toyota. Meanwhile, the GR Sport will offer a chance to enjoy a casual sports car driving experience in all vehicles which also includes Toyota’s minivan. In addition to these, an aftermarket “GR Parts” is also a part of the hierarchy, providing the customers with a scope of customizing their own cars.
Initially, the GR sports series will be limited to the Japanese market. But, with the introduction of the Yaris GRMN in Europe, It will be extended outside Japan gradually, according to Toyota.
Initially, the GR and GR Sport offering will be available for the small Vitz hatchback. The GR Sport series will extend to the Prius PHV, Harrier, Mark X, Voxy, and Noah. Under the hardcore GRMN umbrella, there will be 86 GR, Aqua GR Sport, and Prius Alpha.
Additionally, TMC will also open a series of ‘GR Garage’ shops. They will serve as regional bases for Toyota Gazoo Racing. The current "Area 86" shops across Japan will be rebranded as GR Garage shops with dedicated staff. TMC plans a total of 39 GR Garage shops within the 2017 fiscal year.
It should be noted that Toyota has not mentioned anything about the upcoming Supra with regards to this sport series by Toyota. However, we assume it will sit atop the Toyota’s sports car offering when it arrives in a couple of years’ time.
