Toyota Gazoo Racing boss says they need a GR SUV

Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) division has pumped out high-performance versions of the Yaris and the Corolla. They even have the GR86 and the GR Supra in their portfolio to cater to enthusiasts who want a thrilling ride.

Yes, they also have GR Sport versions of the Hilux, Corolla Altis, Corolla Cross, Land Cruiser 300, and the Fortuner although these mostly have aesthetic upgrades with some light suspension mods thrown in.

For the longest time, Gazoo Racing has yet to build a high-riding high-performance version of their existing crossover SUVs. However, that may soon change as the brand is interested in making it a reality.

According to a report by Australian publication Car Expert, Tomoya Takahashi, president of Toyota GR, shared they are interested in making a GR-tuned SUV. But what’s the reason behind making one?

“In the future, from my point of view, we need a GR SUV. Some people can only use SUVs because they have a family or need space. To expand our brand, maybe an SUV is needed,” said Takahashi.

Given the popularity of crossover SUVs with buyers, it’s not surprising Takahashi has thought about making a GR SUV a reality. Other brands like Dodge and Jeep have already produced the likes of the Durango SRT Hellcat and the Cherokee Trackhawk, respectively. Both SUVs crank out over 700 PS and can sprint from 0 - 100 km/h in less than 4 seconds. Add in the fact that the executive wants the GR brand to expand, having an SUV in their lineup could massively increase sales.

As to what Toyota SUV will get the GR treatment is still up for debate. However, we won’t be surprised if it could be the Land Cruiser 300. Given that it’s one of Toyota’s most popular vehicles, it stands to reason the brand may have already thought about modifying it. Throw in the countless possibilities and modifications they can do to the LC 300 and they could definitely have something special in their hands.

Do you think a Toyota GR SUV will make sense in the long run? And will it prove popular with buyers & enthusiasts? Let us know what you think.