by The final part of the GRIP anime series
Toyota has released the final part of its GRIP anime series on YouTube, which contains hidden hints about a future model from the Gazoo Racing lineup. The short film depicts a mysterious sports car that is likely to become a new member of the GR family.
Film features
This release concludes three seasons of five episodes each that aired throughout 2024-2025. Unlike previous parts, this one lasts over nine minutes. The plot follows the main character Jay Kan, who drives a GR Corolla and battles an army of AI-powered autonomous vehicles. Flashbacks also show his father behind the wheel of an AE86, adding nostalgia to the story.
Hidden clues
Toyota’s marketing team skillfully uses the film to generate hype around the new model. The most important clue is contained in the final scene: a computer screen displays a message:
“Hello? Hello? Confirming Gazoo Racing inventory: 1. GR Supra, 2. GR86, 3. GR Corolla, 4. GR …”
The screen goes dark without showing the last name, forcing fans to make assumptions. The absence of the GR Yaris is explained by the fact that the series was created for the North American audience, where this model is not available.
Possible candidates
The main theory links this to the future GR GT3 supercar, which will feature a V8 hybrid engine. Toyota has already confirmed that its official premiere will take place on December 4th, with the first public display scheduled for the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2026. However, a scene in the garage shows a covered sports car next to the GR86. Its angular wings and mid-engine layout are reminiscent of the 2023 FT-Se concept, which many interpreted as a hint at the revival of the MR2.
Historical references
In the second season of the series, a background board could be seen listing future GR models: Supra, Celica, MR2, GR86, and GR GT3, accompanied by engine sketches. Since then, Toyota has announced new generations of the Supra, GR86, the revival of the Celica, and the GR GT3 project. The question regarding the MR2 remains unresolved, adding intrigue.
Fans can watch the film themselves to form their own theories. The covered car appears at 2:24 and 3:05, and the mysterious on-screen message appears after the credits at 9:19.
This strategy of gradually revealing information through media content allows Toyota to maintain interest in its products while paying tribute to automotive culture and brand history. Such approaches are becoming increasingly common among manufacturers seeking to attract a young audience and create an emotional connection with consumers.
