GAZOO Racing Unveils GR GT and GR GT3 at the 2026 Monterey Car Week
GAZOO Racing's Dynamic North American Debut
The 2026 Monterey Car Week serves as a grand stage for GAZOO Racing, which is set to unveil its highly anticipated GR GT sports car alongside its racing counterpart, the GR GT3. This event marks a significant moment in the automotive world, as enthusiasts will witness the GR GT and GR GT3 prototypes perform their first public laps without camouflage at the prestigious Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, held at the iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
This year's Motorsports Reunion celebrates Japanese motorsport heritage, making it the perfect backdrop for the debut of these two remarkable vehicles, both featuring cutting-edge design and technology. The GR GT, expected to launch around 2027, is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine mated to a hybrid system, producing an incredible 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. The power is directed to the rear wheels through a sophisticated carbon-fiber torque tube and an advanced eight-speed automatic transaxle.
In a fascinating crossover, the GR GT also serves as the foundation for the GR GT3, which adheres to FIA GT3 regulations for customer motorsports. While it retains the same V8 engine as the GR GT, the GR GT3 is equipped with a bespoke racing transmission tailored for high performance on the track. This familial linkage ensures both vehicles are well-equipped for their respective domains, further reinforcing GAZOO Racing's commitment to bring true motorsport connections to the streets.
During the Monterey festivities, professional drivers including Jack Hawksworth, a development driver for the GR GT3, and Tatsuya Kataoka will take the helm of these dynamic machines. Attendees will be able to catch action-packed runs on the track between August 14 and 15, witnessing firsthand what these vehicles can do in a competitive setting.
GAZOO Racing will not only showcase the GR GT and GR GT3 on the track but also maintain a presence at The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, where fans can enjoy close encounters with the cars. From August 12 to 15, the team will set up displays at the pit garages, allowing an interactive experience with these engineering marvels.
The origins of GAZOO Racing are steeped in a passion for motorsports, founded by Akio Toyoda and the late Hiromu Naruse. Their vision emphasized the racetrack as the ultimate testing ground for technology and talent. As GAZOO Racing continues to push the envelope in performance-oriented vehicle development, they honor their legacy by producing models that excite car enthusiasts across generations.
In summary, the Monterey Car Week will not only witness the dynamic debut of the GR GT and GR GT3 but also celebrate the rich history of Japanese racing. With their unique blend of advanced engineering and motorsport heritage, these vehicles are poised to make a remarkable impression on the automotive landscape. GAZOO Racing's dedication to performance and passion for driving ensures that they will continue to innovate and inspire for years to come.