The Toyota Supra has been a legendary name in the sports car world since its debut in 1978. The latest iteration, the fifth-generation GR Supra, hit the streets in 2019 and continues to capture attention with its striking design and impressive performance. But how does it measure up against other sports cars in its category?
To provide a comprehensive answer, we’ll delve into the Supra’s specifications, performance, and expert reviews, comparing it to its main competitors: the Nissan Z, BMW Z4, and Porsche 718 Cayman. We’ll also examine its reliability and maintenance costs to give you a complete understanding of what it’s like to own a Supra.
Toyota Supra Overview
The Toyota Supra is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that carries a rich legacy of performance and driving excitement. The current generation is offered in two trims: 3.0 and 3.0 Premium, both powered by a potent turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that generates 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This engine, shared with the BMW Z4, provides exhilarating acceleration and a satisfyingly sporty driving experience.
Initially, the Supra was available exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 3.9 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph . However, in response to enthusiast demand, Toyota introduced a six-speed manual transmission in 2022, adding another dimension of driver engagement to the Supra experience.
The Supra’s design is a modern homage to its predecessors, featuring a long hood, short deck, and a distinctive double-bubble roof that not only adds to its visual appeal but also serves a functional purpose. This design element, inspired by the legendary Toyota 2000GT, helps reduce aerodynamic drag, contributing to the Supra’s impressive performance .
Stepping inside the Supra, you’ll find a driver-focused cockpit with a low seating position and a minimalist dashboard. While some critics have pointed out similarities to the BMW Z4’s interior , the Supra’s cabin offers a comfortable and well-appointed environment with a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Supra is available in two trim levels: 3.0 and 3.0 Premium .
- 3.0: Starting at $57,385 MSRP, this trim includes features like an active rear sport differential, a rearview camera with parking aid lines, a 10-speaker HiFi sound system (205W), and 19-inch Frozen Gunmetal Gray forged-aluminum wheels.
- 3.0 Premium: Starting at $60,960 MSRP, this trim adds features like a full-color Head-Up Display (HUD), Toyota Supra Connect, Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging, a 12-speaker JBL® HiFi Surround Sound system (500W), and carbon-fiber interior trim.
Interior Features and Technology
The Supra’s interior is designed to provide both comfort and convenience. It features sport seats trimmed in Alcantara® and leather, carbon-fiber interior trim, an 8.8-inch full-digital TFT LCD gauge cluster, and a dual-zone automatic climate control system .
For technology, the Supra offers a 10-speaker HiFi sound system or an optional 12-speaker JBL® HiFi Surround Sound system. It also includes features like a rearview camera with parking aid lines, and available features like a full-color Head-Up Display (HUD), Toyota Supra Connect, and Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging .
Fuel Economy and Cargo Space
The Supra delivers respectable fuel economy for a performance car. With the manual transmission, it achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The automatic transmission version offers slightly better figures, with 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined .
In terms of practicality, the Supra offers 10.2 cubic feet of cargo space, accessible through a hatchback. This is enough room for a couple of carry-on suitcases or a week’s worth of groceries for two .
A91 Edition
The Supra was previously offered in a limited-production A91 Edition. This special edition added unique features such as a carbon-fiber rear lip spoiler, matte-black 19-inch wheels, and exclusive exterior colors. It also included a complimentary one-year NASA membership and a High-Performance Driving Experience (HPDE) . However, it’s worth noting that the A91 Edition may no longer be available, as it was a limited-production model.
Gazoo Racing Heritage
The “GR” in GR Supra stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s global motorsport division. Gazoo Racing plays a crucial role in the development of Toyota’s performance vehicles, including the Supra. Every GR-badged vehicle undergoes rigorous testing and refinement at racetracks worldwide, ensuring that it lives up to the Gazoo Racing legacy of performance and driving precision .
Competitors
The Toyota Supra faces stiff competition from other high-performing sports cars in its segment. Here’s a closer look at its key rivals:
Nissan Z
The Nissan Z presents a more budget-friendly option compared to the Supra, with a starting price around $40,000 . It’s powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, making it slightly more powerful than the Supra. The Z offers the choice of a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic transmission .
Reviewers have praised the Nissan Z for its compliant ride, perky engine, and the availability of a manual transmission . However, some have noted that its cabin is snug, the steering feel can be vague on-center, and it’s heavier than the outgoing 370Z.
BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 is arguably the Supra’s closest competitor, sharing the same platform and engine. However, unlike the Supra, the Z4 is exclusively available as a convertible. It offers comparable performance to the Supra, achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.9 seconds with the automatic transmission .
The Z4 is lauded for its powerful engine choices, premium cabin, and the exhilarating open-air driving experience it provides . However, some reviewers have noted that rival sports cars offer sharper handling, and the lack of an all-wheel-drive option might be a drawback for some buyers.
Porsche 718 Cayman
The Porsche 718 Cayman sits at a higher price point than the Supra and is considered a more focused and purist sports car. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four engine that produces 300 horsepower in the base model and 350 horsepower in the S model. The Cayman is renowned for its exceptional handling, precise steering, and balanced driving dynamics .
Reviewers have consistently praised the Cayman for its driving experience, with many highlighting its sublime chassis balance, smooth power delivery, and the way it blends comfort with back-road prowess and everyday usability . However, the Cayman’s higher price tag and tighter cabin might be deterrents for some buyers.
Specifications Comparison
To provide a clearer picture of how the Supra compares to its rivals, let’s examine their key specifications in a table:
| Specification | Toyota Supra | Nissan Z | BMW Z4 | Porsche 718 Cayman |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $57,345 | $41,015 | $55,045 | $74,795 |
| Engine | Turbocharged 3.0L Inline-6 | Twin-Turbocharged 3.0L V6 | Turbocharged 3.0L Inline-6 | Turbocharged 2.0L Flat-4 |
| Horsepower | 382 | 400 | 382 | 300 |
| Torque | 368 lb-ft | 350 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic | 6-speed manual, 9-speed automatic | 6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic | 6-speed manual, 7-speed PDK |
| 0-60 mph | 3.9 seconds (automatic) | 4.5 seconds (manual) | 3.9 seconds (automatic) | 4.9 seconds (manual) |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph | 155 mph | 170 mph |
| Cargo Space | 10.2 cubic feet | 6.9 cubic feet | 9.9 cubic feet | 5.3 cubic feet (front) + 9.7 cubic feet (rear) |
This comparison reveals that the Supra offers competitive performance within its class. Its engine output surpasses the base Cayman’s, and its acceleration matches the Z4’s. However, the Nissan Z provides a compelling alternative with more horsepower at a lower price.
Reviews and Driving Experience
The Toyota Supra has garnered largely positive feedback from automotive journalists and enthusiasts alike.
- Car and Driver commends the Supra’s “powerful turbo six and available manual” transmission, along with its “daily-driving-friendly suspension” . They also acknowledge its reasonable price for a performance car.
- Top Gear describes the Supra as “a thoroughly capable all-round coupe” while noting its shared components with BMW .
- Machineswithsouls.com goes as far as to call the Supra “might be the best BMW they never built,” praising its engine, transmission, and chassis .
Reviewers generally concur that the Supra delivers an enjoyable and engaging driving experience. Its engine is smooth and potent, while its handling is sharp and responsive. The addition of a manual transmission further enhances driver involvement, allowing for a more connected and visceral driving experience.
The Supra’s adaptive variable suspension also contributes to its impressive handling characteristics. This system allows the driver to adjust the suspension settings to suit their preferences and driving conditions, providing a balance of comfort and sportiness .
Furthermore, the Supra’s exhaust note has been praised for its sporty and engaging sound. One reviewer describes it as a “bassy trumpet” reminiscent of the iconic sounds from the Fast and Furious movies .
However, some reviewers have pointed out areas where the Supra could be improved. These include limited visibility due to the car’s design and a somewhat cramped cabin, particularly for taller drivers.
Awards and Accolades
The Toyota Supra has received numerous awards and accolades, highlighting its impressive performance and overall appeal. These include:
- 2019 “Golden Steering Wheel” award by Auto Bild magazine for Best New Sports Car
- 2019 “Car of the Year” by Esquire magazine
- “Best Handling Car” of 2020 by Sport Auto magazine
Competitor Awards
The Supra’s competitors have also received recognition for their performance and qualities.
- Nissan Z: The Nissan Z was named “Best Sports Coupe” in the 2023 MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards . It was also a finalist for the World Car of the Year awards.
- BMW Z4: The BMW Z4 has won several awards, including the 2009 International Design Excellence Award (IDEA), the 2009 Eyes on Design Award for best production vehicle, and the 2009 Red Dot Design Award .
- Porsche 718 Cayman: The Porsche 718 Cayman has been a perennial winner of Car and Driver’s 10Best award, earning the accolade for over 20 consecutive years . It has also been named World Performance Car of the Year on several occasions.
Reliability and Maintenance
The Toyota Supra boasts a solid reliability record, providing peace of mind to its owners. J.D. Power gives the 2024 Supra a quality and reliability score of 84 out of 100, exceeding the average for its segment . RepairPal also gives the Supra an “Excellent” 4 out of 5-star reliability rating and estimates its average annual repair cost to be $561 .
However, it’s important to consider that the Supra’s BMW-sourced engine and transmission could potentially lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run. Some Toyota dealerships may have limited experience with these components, potentially resulting in increased service times or higher repair bills.
The Supra and BMW: A Collaborative Partnership
The Toyota Supra’s development in collaboration with BMW is a significant aspect of its story. This partnership allowed Toyota to leverage BMW’s expertise in engine and transmission technology, resulting in a high-performing and technologically advanced sports car.
While some purists might lament the use of BMW components, this collaboration has undeniable benefits. It has enabled Toyota to bring the Supra to market with a cutting-edge powertrain and advanced features while keeping development costs in check .
However, this partnership also raises questions about the Supra’s brand identity. Some argue that the Supra feels too much like a BMW, potentially diluting its unique character and appeal .
Finding its Place: The Supra’s Unique Position
The Supra occupies an interesting position in the sports car market. It bridges the gap between more affordable options like the Nissan Z and more focused, premium sports cars like the Porsche 718 Cayman.
The Supra strikes a balance between performance, price, and everyday usability. It offers exhilarating performance and sharp handling without the high price tag of a Porsche. At the same time, it provides more practicality and comfort than a more hardcore sports car, making it suitable for daily driving and longer journeys .
This balanced approach makes the Supra an appealing option for a wide range of buyers, from driving enthusiasts seeking a thrilling weekend car to those looking for a stylish and capable daily driver.
The Manual Transmission: A Welcome Addition
The introduction of a manual transmission to the Supra lineup is a significant development that has been widely praised by enthusiasts. This addition caters to those who crave a more involved and connected driving experience, allowing them to fully exploit the Supra’s performance potential .
The manual transmission not only enhances the Supra’s driving dynamics but also adds to its appeal in the market. It positions the Supra as a true driver’s car, further differentiating it from its competitors and solidifying its status as a performance icon .
Conclusion
The Toyota Supra is a formidable contender in the sports car arena. It delivers a compelling combination of performance, handling, and style, living up to its legendary name. The addition of a manual transmission has further enhanced its appeal to driving enthusiasts.
While its reliability is generally commendable, potential buyers should be aware of the possible long-term maintenance implications of its BMW-sourced components.
Overall, the Supra is a well-rounded and exciting sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience and a unique blend of performance and practicality. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a stylish and capable sports car that can be enjoyed both on the road and the track.
If you’re in the market for a new sports car, we highly recommend taking the Toyota Supra for a test drive and experiencing its capabilities firsthand. You can also visit Toyota’s website to learn more about the Supra’s features and specifications.