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Karin
Automotive manufacturer ST · Statewide
Karin is a Japanese automotive manufacturer recurring across the HD Universe and expected to return in Grand Theft Auto VI, producing sedans, coupes, and pickup trucks. The name is Japanese for red sandalwood, and in-game ads have pronounced it two different ways, one possibly nodding to the Toyota Carina. The marque appears to be based on Toyota.
Toyota, Subaru and Lexus cues
Karin draws chiefly from Toyota, with additional Subaru influence. That relationship is reflected in the Boor and Woodlander, while Toyota’s ownership stake in Subaru provides the real-world link behind the pairing.
Its badge takes cues from Lexus rather than Toyota. This reverses the arrangement used by Emperor, the game’s main Lexus counterpart, whose emblem resembles Toyota’s.
KRAP performance division
Karin Racing Auto Performance, abbreviated KRAP, parallels Toyota Racing Development (TRD). The initials appear to turn the name into a crude joke, in the same vein as the resemblance between “TRD” and “turd.”
KRAP racing liveries also borrow from the former Subaru World Rally Team’s visual treatment. Karin advertising for the Dilettante appeared in Grand Theft Auto IV and Grand Theft Auto V, using differing pronunciations of the manufacturer’s name.
Media
Karin on the GTA Wiki
Location data via GTA Wiki (Fandom), CC BY-SA 3.0. Summary text is our own editorial writing.
