Toyota Not Continuing GR Version Line-up

Car lovers everywhere would agree that the best time to be a petrolhead was the 90’s. Options from especially the Japanese manufacturers were ample from small K-cars to supercars. Some of the popular vehicles were from the Toyota stable, namely the Supra’s, Celica and AE86. Imagine the fun everyone has especially with the ample tuning and customization ability these vehicles offer. When all this came to an end in early 2000s, many hearts were broken as Toyota switched its business focus on building more “peoples” cars with comfort, safety and mainly profit in mind. 

The excitement was revived once again in 2012, with the launch of the new 86 range. Following that Toyota went all niche with the forming of the GR marque and introducing a great lineup of cars for new enthusiasts and the young at heart to relive the glorious 90’s. The new Supra, 86, Yaris and Corolla was a perfect line-up catering for all walks of life.. 

But, all good things would have to end and this cycle continues. According to Toyota chief engineer, Yasunori Suezawa when interviewed by DRIVE, there are no additional GR models planned moving forward once what is available is retired. To add, there is no news of Toyota’s future plans with the GR brand. 

However, although there would be no new performance models coming under the GR badge, the brand would still continue on to offer sporty/kitted up versions on your daily run of the mill Toyota’s. You can see the good guys at GR adding some sporty touches to vehicles like the mass market Corolla and Yaris.  Similar GR touches are also rumoured for the recently launched Toyota Crown Hybrid and bZ4X EV. 

Well, on the bright side it is not over yet. These models are currently available to be picked up and more tuned up version are set to be introduced too. So if you don’t want to be left out, remember to get yours soon and enjoy the excitement of the ownership. Hopefully when these models are retired, there would be other manufacturers offering their party piece for driving fans to enjoy, provided internal combustion is still a word then. 

Video: Donut Media