Everything You Need to Know About Toyota ‘GRIP’ Seasons 1 and 2

Anime and cars are a match made in heaven. You’ve got the drama, the adrenaline, the thrill of the chase, and the way everything accelerates to a pulse-pounding climax that makes them a perfect pair. When it was announced that Toyota was officially stepping into the anime world, there was some curiosity about how the series would fare in this crowded anime space. But GRIP hasn’t disappointed. The drama and action have only accelerated since it launched last year, and it’s picked up steam in ways that have kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Season 3 of GRIP  recently dropped, bringing even more action and twists to the series. If you haven’t caught up yet, now’s the perfect time to fully dive into the series. Created by Intertrend with Executive Producer Frank Mele and Supervising Director Jae Woo Kim at the helm, the series has masterfully blended compelling storytelling with an impressive lineup of cars and characters. Yes, there’s no shortage of racing anime, but GRIP delivers one of the most modern and thrilling takes on the sub-genre. 

From the first episode of Season 1, legendary racer and one of the series’ three protagonists, Jae Kang, makes his presence known. Recruited for his unmatched skills, Kang becomes the centerpiece of the first season’s battle against Dr. Synth, leader of the computer-controlled StandardSynths, who are dead set on wiping out humans from the racing world because, of course, machines are "superior." Then, in Season 2, the focus shifted to Linh “Nitro” Lam and her rivalry with fellow GRIP driver Kumail Jo. As two of GRIP’s most fearless drivers, both pushed each other to new limits against one another to determine who would next represent their team against Dr. Synth in the ultimate battle of the season. After the shocking events at the end of Season 2, Season 3 adds a whole new layer of intrigue with a new adversary and wrinkle to the story when the past collides with the present which puts Jae Kang back in the driver’s seat.

Beyond the main characters, the other stars of the show are the vehicles. Seasons 1 and 2 introduced the signature rides of the cast, including Jae Kang’s GR Corolla, Linh “Nitro” Lam’s GR Supra, and Kumail’s GR86—all of which seem to perfectly embody each character’s personality, both in their design and the way they drive. Kang’s GR Corolla is all about precision and control, just like him. Lamh’s GR Supra is sleek, powerful, and ready to take on anything. Kumail’s GR86 is daring, rebellious, and full of energy, just like his unpredictable nature.


Season 3 brings even more heat with the addition of some seriously iconic vehicles: the W10 MR2, AE86 Corolla Levin GT-APEX, F10 2000GT, and Supra TRD 3000GT. Each one has its own unique appeal and represents a new chapter in the battle between man and machine. With this new fleet, Season 3 has already taken things to the next level. Get ready for even more high-octane races, jaw-dropping stunts, and, of course, some incredibly dope vehicles.

Another one of GRIP’s strengths is its bingeability. Each episode is quick and adrenaline-packed, making it perfect for when you’re looking for something fast-paced but engaging. You can knock out all three seasons in about the same time it takes you to grab a coffee, catch up on your messages, or even squeeze in a quick workout. 

The show doesn’t hold back for a second. It truly races head-first into action that keeps you on the edge of your seat. And the animation? Incredible. Top-notch animation is no longer an option in anime; it’s a requirement, and the series delivers. With a futuristic edge and flawless execution, GRIP delivers something fresh and exhilarating while still paying homage to the best racing anime has to offer. It’s a testament to the dedication of Toyota, who aren’t just making cars—they’re making culture and redefining how a brand can connect with young, passionate fans. They’ve made moves like linking up with Complex at 2024’s Family Style event for a first-look screening of Season 2 and dropping a slick merch collab with designer Abakada. Toyota is proving they’re not just about reliability: They’re building something that actually resonates with fans of anime.

With three seasons ready for binging, Toyota is bringing its fleet of vehicles to life in a way that we haven’t seen before with other brands. With the series’ A1 storyline, top-tier character development, fast cars, and an even faster binge-watch, now’s the time to buckle up and experience Toyota’s high-speed vision in action.

With all that’s in store, Season 3 of GRIP is shaping up to be an unforgettable ride. Don’t miss out—catch up on Seasons 1 and 2 now, and get ready for the high-speed adventure that’s about to unfold.