Toyota has recently been injecting some much-needed excitement into its vehicle lineup with the introduction of models like the exciting new GR Corolla and the impressive GR86. However, it’s essential not to overlook where Toyota’s revival began – with the GR Supra.
Since bringing back the iconic Supra nameplate a few years ago, Toyota has continuously improved the model every year. Despite some Toyota enthusiasts disliking the heavy BMW influence in the latest Supra, it’s clear that Toyota needed a partnership to justify its return. Building a dedicated sports car platform is cost-prohibitive today, especially given the limited market for such vehicles.
Although the Supra and the BMW Z4 share many components, each car has its distinct personality. The Supra boasts a stylish design with sculpted bodywork and a sleek roofline.
Buyers have the choice between two engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 255 horsepower or a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six generating an impressive 382 hp. For the 2022 model year, both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. The 2023 Supra will offer a six-speed manual option for the inline-six.
Having tested both models, the inline-six engine is the clear winner. The 3.0-liter engine enables the Supra to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than four seconds, outperforming the four-cylinder. The BMW-sourced inline-six is exceptionally smooth with minimal turbo lag, allowing the Supra to respond instantly to throttle inputs and making it easy to slide the rear end when desired.
Moving beyond the engine offerings, the Supra’s suspension effectively balances body control without compromising ride comfort for daily use. The steering is nicely weighted, though some might find the steering wheel’s large airbag reminiscent of older vehicles.
While fuel efficiency may not be a top priority for Supra buyers, the turbocharged four-cylinder achieves respectable ratings of 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, while the 3.0-liter returns 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
Inside the cabin, the Supra feels snug due to the low roof and narrow side windows, giving it a somewhat cramped feel. Accessing and exiting the vehicle isn’t the easiest. Despite the tight space, both seats offer good comfort. While the exterior reflects Toyota’s design language, the interior features numerous BMW components, blurring the distinction between the two brands.
The dashboard features an 8.8-inch touchscreen with BMW’s iDrive system, along with a digital gauge cluster that differs from typical BMW designs.
Toyota offers the 2022 Supra in 2.0, 3.0, and 3.0 Premium trims, as well as an A91-CF Edition. The base 2.0 trim starting at $44,185 includes manually adjustable seats, leather and Alcantara upholstery, carbon fiber interior accents, an 8.8-inch gauge cluster, keyless start, satellite radio, an 8.8-inch center display, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The 3.0 Premium trim, priced at $55,685, adds sport pedals, a head-up display, 14-way power-adjustable sport seats with memory, heated seats, a 12-speaker JBL audio system, navigation, wireless smartphone charging, leather upholstery, and larger rear brakes. The top-tier $64,275 A91-CF Edition features a carbon-fiber aerodynamic kit, including front splitter, side skirts, ducktail spoiler, and front and rear canards. It also comes with matte black 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and a red and black interior.
In conclusion, the GR Supra serves as a standout flagship for Toyota, demonstrating the brand’s capacity to inject excitement into its lineup. The Supra delivers an exhilarating driving experience and a surprisingly upscale interior, largely due to the incorporation of BMW elements. While closely related to the BMW Z4, the Supra retains its merit as a worthy bearer of its iconic badge.
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