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Built to the second-generation Formula Regional regulations, the car uses a Tatuus T-326 carbon chassis. The GRF-70 is the fourth model that the series has used in its more than 20 years and is the first not to feature the ‘FT’ prefix. The move to the ‘GRF’ prefix signifies Toyota’s move to make the Gazoo Racing brand its own standalone entity as part of a broader shift globally. The GRF-70 will be used in the upcoming four-round Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy in 2027. Wood, who raced the FT-60 earlier this year, hailed the new single-seater a step up. “It’s like a baby F1 car,” said Ryan Wood on MotorSport New Zealand’s Inside Line. “It’s a really cool upgrade for the team here at Toyota and I’m sure they’re really excited moving into the back half of this year into next year with CTFROT.” The car features an all-new steering wheel, which the Kiwi said would be a welcome change. Suspension geometry changes also mean there is less effort required to turn the wheel. “First thing’s first, the steering wheel is simplified. It’s also probably more high-tech,” he explained. “Everything from the buttons – it’s push and hold now, so that you can’t accidentally knock a button. “I remember here when I was racing the FT-60 I knocked the pit limiter at the hairpin, so you can’t do that.” Driver comfort is chief among the changes between models. Wood noted the chassis was far more accommodating. “The cockpit is probably a bit more spacious for your taller and bigger boys,” said Wood. “I think that’s a really, really good factor. A guy like Ugo [Ugochukwu] last year, I don’t know how he fit into the FT-60. “Now there’s a lot more space. That is a very good thing for driver comfort.” The GRF-70 retains its homegrown 2.0‑litre turbocharged Toyota 8AR‑FTS making 285hp (212kW) that was used in the FT-60. The updated engine is coupled to a Sadev SL-R 82 six-speed gearbox with a limited-slip differential. “The power delivery feels really, really good and clean,” said Wood. “The balance of the car, you can start to lean on it and play with it a bit more. “Even things like the braking, the brake bias migration is probably a bit more consistent as well. “Everything like that is a really, really good step forward. The overall feeling in the car feels new.” Next year’s championship will feature a maximum of 22 cars run by M2 Competition, mtec Motorsport, Kiwi Motorsport, Hitech GP, TJ Speed Motorsport and Rodin Motorsport. The summer series begins in the North Island at Hampton Downs on January 8-10 before heading to Taupo on January 15-17. The South Island hosts the penultimate and final rounds, beginning at Teretonga on January 22-24 and closing out with the New Zealand Grand Prix at Highlands on January 29-31. Winning the championship earns six points towards an FIA Super Licence. Points are awarded down to sixth.