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TOYOTA GAZOO Racing at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025

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Toyota’s presence at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon was electrifying, offering a glimpse into the future of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) through a showcase of innovative vehicles and cutting-edge technologies. The event featured exciting announcements, from performance vehicles to customer-oriented upgrades, all designed to enhance Toyota’s motorsport legacy and provide race-inspired technology to enthusiasts around the globe.

This year’s theme, “Car-making at Nürburgring,” highlighted TGR’s strong connection to the legendary circuit where Toyota has consistently refined its cars for peak performance. For Akio Toyoda (Morizo), the event marked a significant return to the Nürburgring, the starting point of his motorsport journey and a place that continuously nurtures Toyota’s racing spirit.

Alongside Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd., Toyota unveiled an exciting range of new products and parts, demonstrating their commitment to innovation and enthusiasm for motorsport. From GR vehicles to limited-edition parts, here’s everything that was showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, offering us an inside look at Toyota’s evolving journey toward even more exhilarating driving experiences.

GR YARIS NÜR 24h | Image: Toyota

GR Yaris (NÜR 24h):

After a six-year hiatus, Toyota is making a bold return to the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race in 2025, and they’re doing it in style with the evolved GR Yaris. This thrilling update is part of the newly formed TOYOTA GAZOO ROOKIE Racing (TGRR), a partnership between TGR and ROOKIE Racing that will compete in both the Nürburgring Langstrecken Serie (NLS) and the Super Taikyu Series.

The GR Yaris is equipped with a newly developed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, making its world debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. The vehicle has undergone rigorous testing on the Nürburgring circuit, and TGR intends to use the challenging track as a proving ground to refine both the car and the driver. For Toyota, the Nürburgring isn’t just a race; it’s where their motorsport journey began, and now they’re back to claim victory.

GR YARIS M Concept | Image: Toyota

GR Yaris M Concept

In another exciting announcement, TGR has unveiled the GR Yaris M Concept. This vehicle is designed for one purpose: to push the limits. Equipped with a midship-mounted, 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, it promises to deliver an exhilarating driving experience. Here’s where it becomes even more intriguing: TGR is fully committed to the “driver-first” philosophy, meaning the car will undergo rigorous testing, often pushed to failure and then repaired, with continuous feedback from drivers like Morizo and professional racers. This concept focuses on learning from real-world racing conditions to enhance every aspect of the vehicle, ensuring that each drive is pure perfection. It’s a project that’s sure to thrill any motorsport enthusiast.

GR Yaris Aero Package

Next up is the GR Yaris Aero Package, a concept vehicle designed to improve aerodynamics. Developed with input from professional drivers, this car includes six key components, such as a variable rear wing that adjusts based on driving conditions. However, it’s not just about speed. The car also showcases enhanced styling, ensuring that performance and aesthetics work together. The vertical handbrake—a popular feature in the RC trim level of the updated GR Yaris—appears in this prototype as well. This vehicle is sure to turn heads, whether on the track or the street.

GR Yaris Aero Package (Prototype) | Image: Toyota

GR86 Software Upgrades

The GR86 has been a favourite since its 2021 launch, and in 2024, Toyota introduced exciting software upgrades that have further elevated the car’s performance. Drawing on valuable feedback from motorsport drivers, Toyota has fine-tuned the throttle characteristics and engine-speed tolerance range for downshifting. These changes make the car more responsive and quicker, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The best part? Starting in spring 2025, owners of the pre-upgrade GR86 will have the opportunity to obtain the new GR86 Performance Software for MT or AT at GR Garage locations. Toyota’s commitment to supporting owners and continuously enhancing their driving experience is evident, ensuring that the GR86 remains a beloved car for years to come.

Circuit Mode

Are you ready to push your Toyota to its limits? Enter Circuit Mode. Launched in August 2024, this service unlocks high-performance features that elevate your driving experience to the next level—think anti-lag control, a higher speed limiter, and a performance-driven mentality for genuine motorsport excitement. Through a dedicated app, your car’s instrument panel transforms into a specialized display, providing real-time insights such as shift timing and engine rpm, all designed to make you feel like you’re in the driver’s seat of a race car. But here’s the twist—Circuit Mode has expanded to 77 eligible circuits across Japan, including iconic venues for gymkhana and dirt trials. Whether you’re an adrenaline enthusiast eager to race or simply want to discover how your car handles at its peak, Circuit Mode offers the ultimate toolkit to unleash your car’s full potential.

GR YARIS M Concept | Image: Toyota

GR Yaris and GR86 Competition Parts:

Product Price Scheduled Lunch Sales Method
GR Mechanical LSD (for automatic transmission vehicles)To be announcedSpring 2025Toyota sales outlets across Japan
GR Endurance Bumper Bolt SetTo be announcedSummer 2025Toyota sales outlets across Japan
Product Price Scheduled Lunch Sales Method
GR Final Gear Kit (Selectable gear ratio: 3.909, 4.100, 4.300, 4.556)USD $549.99 Spring 2025Toyota sales outlets across Japan
Differential Carrier with Cooling FinsUSD $249.99 Summer 2025Toyota sales outlets across Japan

GR Heritage Parts

TGR is reissuing parts through the GR Heritage Parts Project for those who are fond of classic Toyota models. This initiative provides discontinued parts for iconic vehicles like the 70/80 Supra, AE86, and Land Cruiser 40, ensuring these legendary cars can continue running smoothly for years. In addition to parts, Toyota is also reprinting nostalgic brochures for classic GR Heritage Parts vehicle models.

Land Cruiser Base

The Land Cruiser has symbolized adventure and reliability for over 70 years, and Toyota is revitalizing it with the reopening of the LAND CRUISER BASE on February 1, 2025. This specialty store will provide a space for Land Cruiser owners to connect, share experiences, and purchase original parts. It also serves as a venue for Toyota to host events and gather feedback from its dedicated community of enthusiasts. With the support of Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd., this updated store will feature exclusive activities and products that celebrate the enduring legacy of the Land Cruiser.

Here’s a complete list unveiled at Tokyo Auto Salon 2025:

GR YARIS NÜR 24h | Image: Toyota
GR YARIS M Concept | Image: Toyota
GR Yaris Aero Package (Prototype) | Image: Toyota
Toyota Supra NÜR Training Car | Image:Toyota
Toyota Altezza #109 / 2007 NÜR 24h | Image:Toyota
Lexus LFA #48 / 2014 NÜR 24h | Image: Toyota
Toyota #86 / 2014 NÜR 24h | Image: Toyota
GR Supra #90 / 2019 NÜR 24h | Image: Toyota
Corolla 1960 – Morizo Garage
R360 Coupe – Morizo Garage | Image: Toyota
Subaru 360 1967 – Morizo Garage | Image: Toyota
Midget 1962 – Morizo Garage | Image Toyota
Land Cruiser BJ | Image: Toyota
Land Cruiser 70 Overseas Custom | Image: Toyota
Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport Dakar Rally 2025 Specification | Image: Toyota
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TAG Heuer Returns as Official Timekeeper for Formula 1

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Get ready, motorsport fans — TAG Heuer is back where it belongs, stepping up as the Official Timekeeper for Formula 1. After 55 years of history, the Swiss watchmaker is reclaiming its role at the heart of F1. It all started when TAG Heuer first appeared on the hood of Jo Siffert’s Lotus 49B, and now, the true king of the track is back in action.

It’s been over twenty years since TAG Heuer made the surprising decision to step back from timekeeping, but the sport’s worst-kept secret is finally out. Just a few months ago, TAG Heuer’s parent company, LVMH, signed an extraordinary 10-year sponsorship deal with F1, shaking up the motorsport world by ending Rolex’s long reign. The partnership not only indicates a major shift in sponsorships but also brings TAG Heuer back into the fold, alongside other LVMH brands like Louis Vuitton and Moët Hennessy. While it was obvious TAG Heuer’s return was imminent, the official announcement on January 1st confirmed the news.

So, buckle up — this legendary partnership is about to take excitement to a whole new level on the F1 track.

Jack Heuer, in the middle, pictured here with the Ferrari team, circa 70s | Image: TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer’s Back in Action: Timing F1 Like a Pro

TAG Heuer’s role in timekeeping is iconic for those who’ve followed Formula 1 over the years. TAG Heuer has been a leader in race timing since the early ’70s, when the Swiss brand first became involved with F1, and through its legendary partnerships with teams and drivers. The brand’s innovative chronographs and precise timing technology made it a perfect fit for a sport where every fraction of a second matters.

Now, as they return to the scene, TAG Heuer is poised to redefine how time is measured on the track. The brand made the exciting announcement on their official site, confirming they’re back in action as the Official Timekeeper for Formula 1 starting in the 2025 season. TAG Heuer’s CEO, Frédéric Arnault, shared his excitement about the return, stating:

Formula 1 and TAG Heuer share a passion for performance, precision, and pushing the limits. We are thrilled to be back in the heart of the action, where every second counts, and to bring our legacy of timing excellence to a new generation of fans

The pioneering Le Mans Centigraph, developed by Heuer in 1971 was the first timing system capable of displaying times to precision of 1/1000th of a Second | Image: Tag Heuer
Jack Heuer (L), Niki Lauda (Centre) and Clay Regazzoni (R) visiting the Heuer workshops in Biel in the 1970s | Image: TAG Heuer

Their advanced timekeeping solutions will guarantee that every lap, pit stop, and exhilarating moment is recorded with unmatched accuracy. For fans watching the action unfold, it’s more than just a partnership — it’s a continuation of a legacy rooted in speed, style, and precision.

What makes this partnership even more exciting is the cutting-edge technology TAG Heuer brings to the table. The brand has always been known for pushing the limits of watchmaking, and now, they’re applying that same dedication to the fast-paced world of F1. With their return, F1 fans can expect even more accurate and seamless timing, making every second of the race even more thrilling.

Red Bull Oracle | Image TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer x F1: Legacy in Motion

The relationship between TAG Heuer and Formula 1 extends beyond just timekeeping. With the 2025 season marking the 75th anniversary of the first Driver’s Championship, TAG Heuer is the ideal partner to commemorate this historic milestone. The brand’s deep-rooted connection to the sport is so ingrained that the two are nearly inseparable. From collections named after legendary races to the TAG Heuer logo displayed on vehicles, the watchmaker has become as closely associated with F1 as Ralph Lauren is with polo — and much of that can be attributed to Jack Heuer.

Back in the ‘70s, the then-CEO of TAG Heuer established the first-ever partnership between a watch brand and an F1 team, Ferrari. This pioneering agreement led to the creation of the Le Mans Centigraph, a timekeeping device built to measure the performance of Ferrari’s new cars and drivers at their first dedicated facility. Little did they realize that this collaboration would spark a relationship that would accumulate 239 wins, 613 podiums, 9,471 points, 11 World Constructors’ Championships, and 15 World Drivers’ Championships. TAG Heuer has collaborated with legendary teams such as McLaren, Ferrari, and Oracle Red Bull Racing, solidifying its legacy in F1 history.

With this longstanding history, it’s only fitting that TAG Heuer is back in the driver’s seat as the official timekeeper. Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed his excitement about the return, saying:

“I am delighted to welcome TAG Heuer as the official timekeeper of Formula 1 as they start the next stage of their long history in our sport. With their focus on innovation, accuracy, and excellence, they are a natural partner, and I am excited to see how our intertwining heritage can tell new stories for the future as we celebrate our 75th year.”

Red Bull Oracle | Image TAG Heuer

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