2023 Toyota GR Supra: The renowned Toyota Supra returned for the 2020 model year after a 21-year sabbatical. Its rebirth was made possible by sharing expenses and a platform with BMW, a welcome addition to a declining sports car market. The BMW Z4 roadster’s coupe sibling is the Supra. While the GR (Gazoo Racing) Supra’s edgy look has stirred up much debate, its driving qualities have garnered many admirers. Toyota hasn’t rested on its laurels either; in 2021, a four-cylinder vehicle will be available, and in 2023, a manual gearbox will be possible. More power will also be added.
The most significant improvement this year is the six-speed stick, and those who want it all should spend their money on the limited-edition Supra A91-MT trim if you can locate one. Only 500 of these cars, each painted in Matte White or CU Later Gray with a unique Cognac leather inside, will be transported to the United States. With extras, that package would cost you at least $56,449, but you can purchase the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder Supra for as low as $45,135, making it a relative value in these times of rising prices.
The Supra’s outrageous appearance will make it impossible to mistake it for anything else. Still, the new manual keeps the vehicle competitive by giving enthusiasts what they want and further setting it apart from some of its BMW relatives. The newly revised 2023 Nissan Z and its closest muscle car rivals, the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang, all come with manual transmissions, unlike earlier Supras. Both the 2 Series and Z4 from BMW have identical engines. However, neither one has a stick. The Z4 is a grand tourer with gentler edges, but the 2 Series is nearly as forceful as the Supra.
Consider choosing the Supra’s 255-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four if you’re on a tight budget and don’t need the highest possible performance. Even though it has a smaller engine, it can excite while accelerating or bobbing and weaving along winding country roads. However, for faithful performance enthusiasts, only the tenacious 3.0 liter straight six will do. It produces a snarling, basso engine noise and 382 horsepower together with 368 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed manual is no longer an option on 3.0 vehicles; an eight-speed automatic is now the default.
The Supra’s low, swoopy roof makes it seem tighter than its Z4 sibling, but one doesn’t purchase a sports car for plenty of baggage and internal room. Although the interior design is driver-centric, it stops just short of becoming cramped. The drawback is that you must bend over to get in or out. Surprisingly, there is adequate cargo room (10.2 cubic feet) for each passenger to bring a carry-on bag of reasonable size. Additionally, it gets respectable gas economy, with a combined 28 mpg for the 2.0 and 25 for the six-cylinder, but just 21 for the manual.
Although the Supra’s interior differs from the Z4’s, it has a similar 8.8-inch infotainment screen and uses iDrive software modified by Toyota and the rotary controller. There are also further shocks for Toyota devotees: Apple CarPlay is possible, but Android Auto is not. Toyota enhances its value offer over the more expensive Z4 by bundling its active safety systems with quality audio and other extras. However, the majority of Supra enthusiasts will see them as incidental factors. The Supra delivers a thrilling driving experience because of its speed, franticness, and rawness.
What’s New?
- All trim levels of the six-cylinder GR-Supra now come with a new, optional 6-speed manual gearbox.
- Five hundred units of a limited edition Matte White or CU Later Gray A91-MT (manual transmission) variant will be sold by Toyota.
- On the 3.0 Premium and A91-MT, the Premium 12-speaker JBL Audio system is now standard.
- A free one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association’s High-Performance Driving Event with professional coaching is included with every new GR-Supra.
Performance: Toyota GR Supra
In the Supra, Toyota provides two standard turbocharged engines identical to those in the BMW Z4.
In 2021, Toyota introduced the 2.0-liter inline four (shared with the Z4 sDrive30i) after debuting solely as a six-cylinder vehicle. It has 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter inline six’s output was increased to 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque in the same year (from 335 to 365, respectively), which is on par with the Z4 M40i. Both engines drive the rear wheels (all-wheel drive is not an option here), and a quick-shifting eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox is standard, much as on the Z4.
But this year, Supra purchasers can choose from a six-speed manual gearbox, as enthusiasts have demanded since the vehicle’s introduction. The turbo-four is an acceptable option for those looking for a sporty ride without going overboard with the price tag. It is speedy and responsive. The six steps things up a level and are, without a doubt, the best option for anybody looking for maximum performance.
Although the Supra and Z4 share a lot of hardware components and an identical platform, they don’t drive similarly. Toyota engineers tweaked the suspension and steering for a more direct and raw sensation than the touring-friendly Bimmer. The Toyota’s coupe design makes it naturally more stiff. Consequently, the Supra outperforms the Z4 on a track and straight line (3.9 seconds to 60 mph compared to 4.4 for the BMW). It also cries out to be stretched to the maximum.
The Toyota is, undoubtedly, the best option for weekend warriors who like racing their vehicles. Look to BMW (and budget more) to experience open-air driving along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Choosing the six-speed results in higher shifts around a track and slower acceleration times (around 0.3 seconds), but it’s also more enjoyable. The changes are swift, smooth, and satisfying, and the manual shifter is conveniently located and simple to grasp. Fans of manual transmissions like it because it gives the impression that there is a closer connection between the vehicle and the driver.
Fuel efficiency: Toyota GR Supra
Sports cars aren’t known for their fuel efficiency, but the 2023 Toyota GR Supra gets better mileage than one would anticipate for its class. It achieves 28 mpg combined (25 city, 32 highway) with the 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. The 3.0-liter six is likewise reasonably priced, earning a combined 25 mpg (22 cities, 30 roads), albeit these numbers are around one mpg less than the Z4 in every regard. The new manual transmission’s very low combined efficiency of only 21 mpg (19 city, 27 highway) may come as a surprise.
Even yet, the manual Supra scores between 1 and 2 mpg more in every category than the manual Nissan Z, but both vehicles receive roughly the same amount of gas economy. The four-cylinder EcoBoost Mustang can get 24 mpg and the V6 Camaro 22 mpg, but the V8-only Jaguar F-Type won’t exceed 19 mpg combined in any configuration. Maximum combined fuel economy for V8 Mustangs and Camaros drops to 19 or 20 mpg, which worsens as horsepower increases.
Safety & Driver Support
The Supra does not get full credit in our review since neither the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) nor the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have crash-tested it. The Z4 has the highest ratings from the European New Car Assessment Program (EuroNCAP), which gives us great confidence in the Supra’s crash safety. Still, the Toyota hasn’t been tested by that EU organization.
However, the Supra boasts the latest Toyota driver assistance and safety technology. The 2.0 and 3.0 versions are equipped with a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic warning, and parking sensors as part of the Safety & Technology Package. While the manual only receives high-speed cruise control, the automatic additionally gets full-speed dynamic radar cruise control (like with the smaller GR86, the adaptive cruise isn’t compatible with the manual). Parking sensors and an emergency auto-brake feature are also included with the automatic. The Driver Assist Package is the new moniker for the equipment arrangement shared by the 3.0 Premium and A91-MT trims.
Room: Toyota GR Supra
Let’s face it: if you want a spacious inside, you shouldn’t purchase a 2023 Toyota GR Supra. First, anybody taller than five feet will have trouble entering or exiting the sports vehicle without doing challenging yoga poses due to the low roofline. Due to the bubble-top cover, some people could experience a little sense of claustrophobia while inside the two-seater. It offers plenty of headroom and looks like something Carrozzeria Zagato would design for a Ferrari from the outside, but it emphasizes how close everything feels inside.
But for genuine sports car enthusiasts, it’s a perfect match, and the driver-oriented layout puts everything just where you need it. Those who adore the Supra but cannot drive may also want to consider the Z4. Even with the top-up, the Z4’s interior seems far more airy while having the same fundamental proportions, and of course, you can always take it down.
Infotainment: Toyota GR Supra
Here is where the results of Toyota and BMW’s partnership will most likely be seen. Supra is equipped with a barely disguised version of the BMW iDrive 7.0, unlike the Japanese carmaker’s new voice assistant-controlled infotainment system. That’s not always negative since using the rotary knob to zoom in and out on a map while keeping your eyes on the road may be more straightforward.
An 8.8-inch screen and a digital gauge panel with welcome performance-focused features are combined. Unexpectedly, Apple CarPlay is a choice, whereas Android Auto is absent (due to an essential software constraint). Lower trims have navigation as an option. Ten speakers comprise the standard audio system; a 12-speaker JBL upgrade is also available.
Storage & Cargo Space:
Even if it has a larger trunk than you may anticipate, this is not a car you purchase for Costco excursions. Because of its coupe design, the Supra’s hatchback is shaped differently than the Z4 Roadster’s trunk, yet it has a little more space (10.2 cubic feet compared to 9.9). You can fit some soft luggage there but must put them in imaginative arrangements.
The Nissan Z and Chevy Camaro (with just 9.1 cubic feet accessible via a tiny lid) have noticeably smaller holds than this one. The Porsche 718 Cayman’s cargo compartment is divided between a slim trunk and an even smaller frunk, making it less usable. The trunk of the Mustang is quite a bit bigger at 13.5 cubic feet, but the Dodge Challenger tops them all at 16.2 cubic feet.
The Supra doesn’t have a lot of capacity for storing little items, but practically all of its rivals also lack this feature. The bins on the Z4 are somewhat superior.
Design: Toyota GR Supra
Bring up the Toyota GR Supra’s design to start a fiery argument. It’s not just “controversial”; that would be an understatement. The Japanese two-seater and its German relative won’t seem alike. Although Toyota designers argue that most form was created to enhance aerodynamics, the Supra is heavy on curves and creases, giving it a little anime character. Functional problems also exist the way the roofline curves into the sports car’s windshield decreases vision and makes getting in and out particularly difficult. However, the overall aesthetic is undoubtedly unique.
The cabin has a little less of that. It is neatly organized, has a precise, driver-focused cockpit, and differs significantly from the Z4 in terms of appearance. But if you look carefully, you’ll see too many BMW components—including the i-Drive infotainment system—for some people’s liking. Additionally, this interior seems more walled off than the Z4 due to Toyota’s stylistic adjustments, notably the peculiar wall on the driver’s side of the center console.
The Toyota GR Supra 2023: Is It Worth It?
Given the sports car market’s continued downturn, the Toyota GR Supra’s return was positive. The two-seater receives several welcome improvements in the 2023 model, beginning with adding a 6-speed manual gearbox, which is becoming more uncommon. Supra is a viable option if you want a powerful sports vehicle with a unique look that is also swift and agile. It’s precisely what fans wanted and affordable (but not necessarily cheap).
Toyota’s cars, even the entry-level 2.0-liter, are more affordable and quicker than their BMW sisters if you’re torn between the Z4 and the Supra.
The starting price for the model is $45,135 (plus a $1,095 destination charge). That is around $8,600 less than it costs to purchase the base German, the Z4 sDrive30i. The base V6, 400-hp Nissan Z begins at $41,015 (if you can locate one without a markup), while the V8 Mustang and Camaro can also be bought for less than $40k. This isn’t exactly inexpensive, however.
The 3.0-liter variants, which start at $54,095, are what most Supra purchasers will want. With a stunning $12,000 less than the Z4 M40i, many more choices are available. Additionally, it creates a vehicle that is quicker than the Nissan Z and more competitive with V8 muscle vehicles. We would maintain the manual as a free option and upgrade to the $2,960 Safety & Technology Plus JBL package for active safety equipment and the best audio quality. That’s still less than the Z4 M40i or the Nissan Z Performance.
You can load up the Supra and increase the price of the A91-MT Edition to almost $60,000. In general, the turbo-four is the most excellent option for individuals on a tight budget, but despite its fantastic price, the extra performance of the six is truly what Supra is all about.
How Much Does the Toyota GR-Supra Cost to Insure?
Sports cars cost more to insure than other vehicle types, although the Supra is less costly than its rivals. Our analysis indicates that the nationwide average premium for a Supra Premium 3.0 for a typical 30-year-old female driver with a clean driving record is $3,021. The Chevrolet Camaro costs $2,408, the BMW M240i costs $2,993, the BMW Z4 M40i costs $2,957, and the Audi TT Quattro costs $3,148.
Toyota GR Supra Generations
Fifth Generation
2019 to current
In January 2019, the fifth-generation GR Supra made its global premiere. Sports car lovers across the globe have been waiting and speculating about the comeback of the cherished sports vehicle for years before the introduction of the 2020 iteration. Two model options and a 335-horsepower 3.0-liter inline-six engine are standard on the 2020 GR Supra, which goes on sale in the summer of 2019. In 2021, the vehicle received a 2.0-liter four-cylinder option in addition to the six-cylinder engine, which saw a significant power increase to 382 horsepower. These engines are used in various BMW models and the similarly related BMW Z4. On six-cylinder GR Supras for 2023, Toyota included a six-speed manual gearbox as a free option.
Fourth Generation
1993 to 1998
The iconic 1960s Toyota 2000GT served as the inspiration for the aerodynamic look of the fourth-generation Supra. Although a non-turbocharged 220 horsepower version was also offered, it was lighter than the preceding model and included a potent twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder that generated 320 horsepower. The Supra’s 2ZJ six-cylinder, a favorite of aftermarket tuners, was swiftly heated up and, in some instances, modified to handle more than 1,000 horsepower by those tuners. This kind of vehicle inspired the Supra that debuted in the first entry of the Fast and Furious film series. In approximately 2015, the same car went up for sale and brought about $185,000. Toyota ceased bringing the Supra into the United States in 1998, although it kept selling it elsewhere until 2002.
Third Generation
1986 to 1992
The first Supra with a separate nameplate was the third generation. It had a newly expanded 3.0-liter inline-six with two versions: a turbocharged version with 230 horsepower and a normally aspirated version with 200 horsepower. The design of the Supra was utterly different from that of the Celica for the first time, and it had a considerably sleeker 2+2 appearance than the front-wheel-drive Celica coupes of the late 1980s. Additionally, it was heavier than earlier versions, which once again gave the impression that it was a high-end, sumptuous GT rather than a pure sports vehicle. The final generation to employ pop-up headlights was that one.
Second Generation
1982 to 1985
With a more angular front end and pop-up headlights, the second-generation Supra began to take on its personality while still carrying the Celica badge. Additionally, the rear suspension was unique and independent. A brand-new 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 145 horsepower made its premiere. Two trims were available, the high-performance P-type and the opulent L-type, that were technically similar.
First Generation
1979 to 1981
Toyota’s now-defunct Celica small sports coupe’s second iteration included the first-generation Supra in its launch lineup. That vehicle initially had a longer wheelbase and a larger 2.6-liter inline six-cylinder engine. The big six was mated to a four-speed, 110-horsepower automatic gearbox or a five-speed manual transmission. For the 1980 model year, a bigger 2.8-liter engine was introduced, increasing output to 117 horsepower, although the original “Celica Supra” was more of a luxurious coupe than a fast one.
Verdict
The GR Supra, a welcome comeback for the Japanese carmaker in 2020, resulted from a rare collaborative effort among Toyota and BMW. Internet fanboys have expressed disapproval over its flashy appearance and extensive usage of components from the German carmaker. Still, you’ll probably overlook the Supra’s alleged transgressions once you get behind the wheel. A snappy four-cylinder or a rumbling 382-horsepower straight-six offering spirited performance at an affordable price make this a genuine enthusiast’s vehicle. The very best? Toyota added A quick-shifting manual gearbox to the extended range of Supra choices for 2023.
