#USA #Monterey #GAZOO Racing #GR GT #GR GT3

GR GT and GR GT3 Debut in North America

The Monterey Car Week in 2026 witnessed the spectacular North American debut of the GR GT and GR GT3 models, presented by GAZOO Racing. This year's event, held at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, was particularly significant as it highlighted the rich heritage of Japanese motorsports.

During the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, both the GR GT and its racing counterpart, the GR GT3, completed initial public laps, showcasing their performance without any camouflage for the first time. This occasion was a fitting tribute to iconic Japanese race vehicles, merging modern engineering with historical legacy.

The GR GT is scheduled for release in 2027, featuring a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine paired with a single motor hybrid system, promising a total output of at least 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This impressive power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a carbon fiber drive shaft and a rear-mounted eight-speed automatic transmission.

Significantly, the GR GT serves as the foundation for the race-specific GR GT3, designed in accordance with FIA GT3 regulations, distinguishing itself as a premium category in customer motorsport based on production vehicles. Like its sibling, the GR GT3 is equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine; however, it replaces the standard automatic transmission with a bespoke racing gearbox tailored for enhanced performance.

Both cars have been developed concurrently, ensuring that advancements in one model benefit the other. The GR GT effectively translates its motorsport lineage into a road-ready vehicle, making its debut at an event that pays homage to the milestones of Japanese automotive history. Professional drivers Jack Hawksworth, known for his role in the GR GT3 development, and Tatsuya Kataoka, also a developer for GAZOO Racing, will pilot these impressive machines during their dynamic performances scheduled for August 14 and 15.

A display area for GAZOO Racing will be set up in the paddock throughout the week, allowing enthusiasts to engage directly with the GR GT and GR GT3. Additionally, GAZOO Racing will have a presence at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, offering fans another opportunity to view these stunning vehicles up close. Tickets are required for both the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and The Quail event.

About GAZOO Racing

Founded out of a passion for the thrilling world of motorsport, GAZOO Racing (GR) was established by the late driver Hiromu Naruse and Akio Toyoda. Their mutual respect and shared belief that the race circuit serves as the ultimate testbed for technology development laid the foundation for the brand. Since debuting in endurance racing in 2007, Akio Toyoda, under the alias Morizo, has collaborated with Naruse and a team of technical experts to create vehicles focused on performance that continuously enhance the driving experience. Today, GR stands as a commitment to car enthusiasts across generations, dedicated to crafting sports cars that inspire and ignite passion for the future.