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Toyota has promised 2021 will be a year of performance, with "several" new GR models scheduled to arrive in Australia over the next 12 months.
Speaking at the 2020 sales results conference, Toyota's sales and marketing chief, Sean Hanley, told media that the next 12 months would see "new GR high-performance sports cars" arrive in Australia.
That comment got us thinking, of course, and we donned our detective cap to figure out exactly what that means, and when we can expect to see vehicles like the LC 300 GR Sport, the Corolla and HiLux GR models, and more.
So what is coming in 2021? CarsGuide understands that Toyota was likely referring to the launch of new or refreshed versions of the existing GR lineup - so the Supra and the Yaris - in 2021.
Toyota GR Yaris Rallye - March 2021
That story will likely begin in March with first deliveries of the Toyota GR Yaris Rallye, which is already being pre-sold in Australia.
As previously reported, the first 200 examples of the Rallye will be priced from $56,200 driveaway, with units sold thereafter moving to its RRP of $54,500 plus on-road costs.
Like the regular GR Yaris, the Rallye is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine good for 200kW and 370Nm.
But it also adds circuit-tuned suspension, front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, 18-inch BBS alloy wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres and red brake callipers.
Toyota GRMN Supra - 2021
The other vehicle we can expect to possibly see in 2021, at least in pre-prod form, is the expected GRMN version of the acclaimed Toyota Supra.
Some reports have the performance car not going on sale until 2023, but certain Japanese media outlets appear convinced that a 2021 reveal is not off the table for the hardest, fastest version of the Supra.
The Supra GRMN will reportedly borrow the next BMW M4's engine for some monstrous power figures. How monstrous? Try 353kW and 550Nm or 375kW and 650Nm.
Critically, BMW's performance car will hit the market within months in Australia, which means a similarly powered Supra could appear soon after.
It's also possible, though, that Toyota has something else up its sleeve for the Supra this year, given the brand has already upped the power outputs for the 2021 model, and has promised annual updates.
Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series GR Sport - 2022
We also expect the new Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series to welcome a sportier GR Sport variant for the first time, with media reports in Japan pointing to engineering upgrades that focus on re-tuning the suspension for more dynamic handing, rather than more power.
The changes should also impact ride height, exterior and interior design, and alloy wheel selection.
What's not known yet, though, is what engine variant the GR version will focus on, but the smart money is on it including the new 3.3-litre V6 engine, given it should be first to arrive, with the petrol and hybrid powertrains still reportedly some way off.
Toyota GR Corolla - 2022-2023
You'll have to wait just a little longer for the GR Corolla, with most reporting pointing to a 2023 launch date for the brand's incoming hot hatch, though recent Japanese reports have suggested a 2021 reveal date - meaning a 2022 on-sale date - is also on the cards.
It's worth pointing out that, while Toyota is yet to officially confirm the model, the brand has already trademarked the name "GR Corolla", and its high-ranking engineers have all-but confirmed the engine and gearbox combo from the GR Yaris will find its way into it - as will elements of the platform and AWD system.
That means the 200kW/370Nm 1.6-litre turbo-petrol three-cylinder engine will be put to work, as well as a rally-inspired all-wheel-drive system.
Toyota GR HiLux and GR Fortuner - 2023
Some bad news on this front, I'm afraid. While Toyota has trademarked the name GR HiLux in Australia (which suggests a GR Fortuner isn't off the table, either), CarsGuide understands a go-fast ute is unlikely before the next-gen HiLux, which is due around 2023.
But... it will be worth the wait. Toyota has always said it had been waiting for a "big diesel” to power a GR HiLux, and suddenly the brand is getting one, with the thumping 3.3-litre diesel V6 expected from the LandCruiser 300 Series expected to produce in excess of 200kW and 650Nm. And it likely won't end there, with vehicles like the Tacoma and Sequoia TRD Pro also fitted with after-market bonuses like Fox Shocks.
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