Toyota Is Hand Picking GR GT Buyers in America

The Toyota GR GT is shaping up to be one of the hardest new performance cars to get in America, and that appears to be exactly what Toyota wants. Demand for the new flagship is already far beyond the number of cars expected to reach United States customers, creating an exclusive ownership experience before deliveries have even started.

Toyota expects the American allocation to be limited to roughly 200 to 250 cars. While reports initially suggested the first allocation was already sold, Toyota later clarified that the GR GT is not officially sold out and that final sales decisions have not yet been made. What is clear is that production will be nowhere near enough to satisfy demand.

Interest became especially obvious during Monterey Car Week. At The Quail, more than 150 potential customers reportedly expressed interest in configuring a GR GT. The car then made its North American dynamic debut at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, where it completed demonstration laps alongside the GR GT3 race car.

Toyota is also taking an unusual approach to deciding who gets a car. Instead of simply allowing dealerships to sell available examples to whoever arrives with the biggest check, the company wants to prioritize established Gazoo Racing customers who actually drive their performance cars. Toyota Senior Vice President Andrew Gilleland has made it clear that the company does not want GR GT examples immediately ending up in the hands of speculators looking for a quick profit.

That makes the GR GT feel more like an invitation into an exclusive performance program than a traditional new car purchase.

The specifications help explain the attention. Toyota is developing a new twin turbocharged 4.0 liter V8 hybrid powertrain targeting more than 640 horsepower. Power is sent through a rear mounted 8 speed transmission featuring a triple wet clutch system. The road car is also being developed alongside the GR GT3 race car, strengthening the connection between Toyota’s motorsport program and its new flagship.

United States deliveries are reportedly expected around late 2027, meaning interested buyers still have a considerable wait ahead.

The bigger story may be what the GR GT represents for Toyota Gazoo Racing. Sitting above cars such as the GR Corolla and GR Supra, the GR GT establishes a new level for Toyota performance. With extremely limited availability and carefully selected customers, Toyota is making sure its newest flagship will remain a rare sight on American roads.