If you had to list the most popular cars in the community, the Supra MK4 would surely make the list. To be fair, the Supra nameplate has been legendary but the latest generation MK5 might not be in the best books of enthusiasts. Why? It is based on a BMW frame and has a BMW engine. If so much is from BMW, is it a Supra? Well, if you think something like that, then Toyota Australia has good news for you. A V8 Supra!
The Championship Plans
Toyota Australia has committed to participating in the Repco Supercars Championship, and for that, they are developing a V8-powered Supra. This V8 will be the 2UR-GSE, a complete aluminium mill with 4 cams, which was found in cars like the Lexus RC F, the LC500, and the 2019 Dakar-winning Toyota Hilux.
This car will be developed along with Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU), which will serve as the homologation team partner. WAU currently uses Ford cars but will shift to the Supra in 2026. They will take up two cars, which will be driven by Chaz Mostert and Ryan Wood.
A Long-Term Plan
Toyota has committed to racing for a minimum of five years in the Repco Supercars Championship. Toyota will follow the Gen3 ruleset, introduced in 2023, for the Championship. The Supra will compete against the Ford Mustang and 5.4-litre engine Coyote in the races.
Toyota Australia VP's Statement
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing, and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley said, "At Toyota, we have been toying with the idea of competing in Supercars for more than 20 years. Now, with the right car, the right team, and a very strong partnership with the Repco Supercars Championship, the time is definitely right. This is truly an historic moment!"
He added, "Our GR brand and performance cars were built on the knowledge that we gain from participating in top-level motorsport, and our entry into the Supercars Championship will cement that connection and give us the opportunity to showcase TOYOTA GAZOO Racing's excitement to a wide audience of passionate fans.
Repco Supercars Championship Welcomes Toyota
Repco Supercars Championship CEO Shane Howard said, "This is an incredible honour to welcome Toyota to the Repco Supercars Championship from 2026. This is a landmark moment for Supercars, solidifying an iconic global automotive brand on our grid from 2026. He added, "It's a testament to the immense popularity and international appeal of our sport that a powerhouse like Toyota has chosen to join our grid. We congratulate Toyota on its commitment to Supercars and are proud to be in such an esteemed company as it continues its global motorsport legacy."
To keep up with more motorsport updates, click here.
