Toyota is eager to transition its hybrid tech into fun-to-drive machines. Of course, the CVT automatic is a big buzzkill. As is the front-drive layout of any Prius variant.
SO how about making a rear-drive, part-manual hybrid sports car!?
Seems genius, and here we are. The GR HV Sports is Gazoo Racing (the inhouse Toyota race team)’s take on a next-gen sport Hybrid Vehicle.
To up the fun quotient, the autobox can be truly shifted like an auto-stick. It has a standard PRND button setup on the dash – But pop the M button on dash from Drive to manual. A real H-pattern makes for a six-speed semi-automatic. All the fun, none of the clutch!
A nice James Bond-style shifter cap hides a Power On button nicely. 
A targa top and Supra-previewing nose and tail makeovers complete the upgrade.
While this model is not aimed for sales (and definitely not in the USA), it’s sport credentials and focus are promising for a next gen of Toyota sport hybrids. This auto-stick might even be a fit for a sporty hybrid Lexus down the road.
2017 Toyota GR HV SPORTS Concept
Toyota to Unveil GR HV SPORTS concept at Tokyo Motor Show 2017
Presenting a new way of enjoying cars
Toyota City, Japan, October 6, 2017―Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) is set to unveil the GR HV SPORTS concept car at its worldwide premiere at the 45th Tokyo Motor Show 2017*, taking place from October 25 through November 5 at Tokyo Big Sight. The GR HV SPORTS concept represents a new way to enjoy cars by integrating the thrill of a sports car with the environmental friendliness of an eco-car.
GR HV SPORTS concept
Main Features
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The design is reminiscent of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s TS050 Hybrid racing car that competes in the World Endurance Championship (WEC).
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Features a targa top that was also used for Toyota’s legendary convertible sports cars, the Toyota Sports 800 (a.k.a. Yotahachi) and the Supra
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Powered by THS-R (Toyota Hybrid System-Racing) that is infused with hybrid technology refined by the TS050 Hybrid
- While completely embodying functionality as a genuine sports car, the GR HV SPORTS concept features LED headlights, aluminum wheels, and a rear diffuser similar to the TS050 Hybrid. The design evokes Toyota’s bond with motor sports.
- The matte black body color expresses power and aggressiveness.
- A selection switch to choose the automatic gear position is located in the center cluster to achieve a racing car-like ambience.
- The push button ignition switch is playfully located on the shift knob.
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