The Toyota GR Supra, also known simply as the Supra, is a modern sports car developed in collaboration between Toyota and BMW. It is part of Toyota's Gazoo Racing (GR) performance division and has garnered significant attention and acclaim since its launch in 2019. The GR Supra is a revival of the legendary Supra lineage, which has a rich history of performance and motorsport success.
1. Heritage and Evolution
History: The Supra nameplate originated in the 1970s, with the first model being introduced in 1978. The most famous generations, the A70 (1982–1992) and A80 (1993–2002), solidified the Supra's reputation as a high-performance sports car, particularly with the legendary 2JZ engine.
Return: After a hiatus following the A80's discontinuation, the GR Supra made its debut at the 2019 North American International Auto Show as a 2020 model, marking the return of the Supra name in the modern era.
2. Design and Aesthetics
Exterior: The GR Supra features a distinctive and aggressive design, with a low, wide stance, flowing lines, and a sculpted body. Key design elements include:
Signature grille: A large, kidney-shaped grille that pays homage to the classic Supra design.
Coupé silhouette: A sleek profile with a sloping roofline, giving it a sporty appearance.
Aerodynamics: Elements like rear vents and a prominent rear spoiler enhance aerodynamic performance and stability.
Interior: Inside, the GR Supra combines sportiness with modern technology:
Driver-focused layout: A cockpit designed for enthusiasts, with a focus on ergonomics and control.
High-quality materials: Use of premium materials, including leather and soft-touch plastics, for a refined feel.
Technology: Equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
3. Performance and Powertrain
Engine Options: The GR Supra is offered with two engine options:
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4: Produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This variant offers a balance of performance and efficiency.
3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6: Produces 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its robust performance and responsiveness.
Transmission: Both engine variants are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth shifts and rapid acceleration.
Performance Figures:
0-60 mph: The 3.0L variant can achieve 0-60 mph in approximately 3.9 seconds, making it a quick contender in its class.
Top Speed: Approximately 155 mph, electronically limited.
4. Chassis and Handling
Platform: The GR Supra shares its platform with the BMW Z4, featuring a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout that contributes to its sporty characteristics.
Suspension: The car is equipped with a double-joint front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing excellent handling dynamics and ride comfort.
Driving Modes: The GR Supra features multiple driving modes (Normal, Sport, and Eco), allowing drivers to tailor the car's performance characteristics to their preferences.
5. Safety and Technology Features
Safety: The GR Supra is equipped with advanced safety features, including:
Toyota Safety Sense: A suite of safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Infotainment: The infotainment system offers connectivity features like Bluetooth, USB ports, and voice recognition for seamless interaction while driving.
6. Trim Levels and Customization
The GR Supra is offered in various trim levels, with each providing a different level of equipment and features. Higher trims may include additional features such as:
Premium audio systems
Upgraded interior materials
Enhanced driver assistance features
7. Motorsport and Performance Variants
GR Supra GT4: Toyota has also introduced a racing version of the GR Supra, known as the GR Supra GT4, specifically designed for GT4 racing series. This version features enhancements for aerodynamics, weight reduction, and track performance.
