Toyota Supra to Replace Lexus LC 500 in Super GT

Photo: Toyota

Toyota will compete with its new Supra in the top class of the Super GT series starting next year, replacing the current Lexus LC 500 car.

The Supra name will return with a road car released this year, while a race-prepared version will compete in Super GT’s GT500 class in 2020.

Development of a race-ready Supra has continued following the unveil of Toyota’s GT Supra Racing Concept last year, which was built to GTE specifications but without the brand having any imminent plans to compete in the class.

The new road car will make its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, beginning on Monday.

The Supra name already has a rich history in Super GT competition, competing in the then-named All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship for 12 years and winning the championship four times.

The return of the Toyota brand to Super GT marks the end of its luxury vehicle division Lexus’ time in the series.

Lexus has been part of GT500 since 2006, running the SC430 and RC F before introducing the LC 500 in 2017, when it won the drivers’ title with Ryo Hirakawa and Nick Cassidy.

Jake Kilshaw

Jake Kilshaw is a UK-based journalist. He is a graduate of Politics and International Relations.