Toyota has announced its entry into the 2026 Repco Supercars Championship with a new and exciting twist—a V8-powered GR Supra. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, known as the 2UR-GSE, is an in-house Toyota engine and can be found in the Japanese manufacturer’s other cars. Yes, we are seeing a V8 in a Toyota Supra. We don’t know who asked for it, but bless them!
Toyota’s Engine Strategy: 2UR-GSE Takes the Lead
Unlike the BMW-sourced engines currently used in road-going Supras, the Supercars variant will feature Toyota’s own 5.0-liter V8, already found in models like the Lexus RC F and LC 500, as well as the Dakar-winning Hilux. This engine, used in some of Toyota’s high-performing vehicles, has a rich history of delivering power and reliability, making it an ideal choice for Toyota’s first-ever Supercars entry.
Walkinshaw Andretti United’s Transition to Toyota
Partnering with Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU), Toyota will develop and field four Supras for the championship, marking a significant shift as WAU moves from Ford Mustangs to Toyota.
Chaz Mostert and Ryan Wood are confirmed as drivers for two of these cars, with more details about the second team yet to be announced. Toyota’s commitment to the series spans five years, competing against Ford’s Mustang and Chevrolet's upcoming Camaro replacement under the Gen3 regulations.
Walkinshaw Andretti United’s decision to switch from Ford to Toyota by 2026 is a major talking point. WAU, already partnering with Toyota to convert Tundra trucks to right-hand drive, will now field two of the four Supras in the championship. This transition will see a significant rivalry develop between Ford and Toyota, further intensifying the competition in the Supercars series. Get the popcorn ready!
Reviving Manufacturer Competition in Supercars
With Toyota’s entry, the Repco Supercars Championship will once again feature three manufacturers—Toyota, Ford, and Chevrolet. This is the first time since 2019 that such a lineup has been seen, with Toyota bringing back a fierce battle in the V8-powered racing scene.
TThe GR Supra will face off against Ford’s Mustang, which uses a 5.4-liter V8, and Chevrolet’s upcoming replacement for the Camaro, which is currently using a 5.7-liter V8. Toyota’s decision to enter the series aligns with a broader trend of automakers reviving their motorsport divisions. The rivalry between the Ford Mustang and Toyota’s V8 Supra will be particularly exciting, as both will be equipped with powerful, naturally aspirated V8 engines.
Toyota’s Long Term Commitment to the Series
Toyota’s five-year commitment shows its seriousness in establishing a long-term presence in the series, marking a new era in its motorsport legacy. By leveraging a proven engine platform and developing a dedicated racing machine, Toyota is set to become a strong contender in the Supercars Championship, adding to the excitement for fans worldwide.
And we are getting a V8-powered Supra from the motorsport entry, what’s not to like? Dear Toyota, is there any way we can get a road legal version of a V8 Supra… pretty please?
