In an automotive world that seems to be dominated by hybrids, electric cars and sport utility vehicles, it is nice to know that the Japanese brand Toyota are at least still thinking about the people who love to drive. The good news then is that the legendary Supra name returns in its fifth generation that started way back in 1978, attached to a fine sports car, and MHH Japanese Cars have had the luxury of a first look.
About The Car
The all-new Toyota GR Supra is the latest in a line of legendary sports car and the first to come fettled by Toyota's sporting arm, Gazoo Racing. The new Supra has been conceived as a pure sports car with a no compromise attitude to ensure that nothing diminishes the pleasure of the driving experience. The car is in the classic form, boasting a front-mounted, straight-six engine driving the rear wheels that builds on the heritage of Toyota’s past Supra generations and the glorious original 2000GT sports car.
Driving enthusiasts can genuinely expect an exhilarating blend of power, agility and precision handling, served up by the car’s combination of a short wheelbase and wide track, light weight, low centre of gravity and highly rigid body structure. The 3.0L engine is fitted with a single twin-scroll turbocharger and produces 335bhp and 500Nm of lovely torque.
Coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission, it is characterised by smooth and powerful acceleration, with large amounts of torque available across the full spectrum of engine speeds. Gazoo Racing was instrumental in honing the new sports car’s performance, working (like all the other car makers) on the legendary Nürburgring and surrounding roads in Germany to achieve the most agile, stable and rewarding handling possible.
As well as the Toyota GR Supra, Gazoo Racing will transfer the technical knowledge it gains from the racetrack and WRC rally stages to the development of new generations of Toyota’s sports-focused GR models, like the diminutive Yaris. The latest technology matched with old-school thrills.
Inside The Supra
The driver’s cockpit neatly combines sports car elements with ultra-modern functionality. Designed to help the driver focus entirely on the business of driving, it is directly influenced by the layout found in single-seater race cars. The low, slim horizontal dashboard maximises the forward view through the windscreen, helping the driver place the car with precision in high-speed driving, while the principal controls are tightly grouped for quick and easy operation.
The driver-focussed instrument panel, centre console and door trim are combined in a seamless design that gives the cockpit a strong, unified feel. Leg comfort is thanks to soft, supportive knee pads in the door trim and on the side of the centre console, their shape defined with the benefit racing experience. Meanwhile, the heads-up display and paddle shifts all sit directly in front of the driver, with additional switches located on the three-spoke steering wheel. The leather-trimmed wheel itself is contoured for excellent grip. The 8.8" HD driver’s instrument display is clearly visible through the steering wheel, with the 3D-effect tachometer and shift indicator positioned in the centre. Further, there's a digital speed read-out to the left plus infotainment and navigation information.
The Supra’s seats are a work of the automotive designer's art and have a racing-influenced design that ensures comfort at all times with excellent support. Body-hugging side bolsters are featured on the cushion and high back, and there is an integrated head restraint. The upholstery options include full leather and a combination of leather bolsters with a perforated Alcantara covering for the seat back and cushion that provides a degree of air ventilation.
All this ability requires the latest in safety technology and the Supra does not disappoint. Features include the Supra Safety+ package, which provides a comprehensive range of active safety features. These include a Pre-Collision System with a pedestrian detection function and the ability to recognise cyclists during daytime driving; Lane Departure Alert with steering assist; Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic High Beam; Adaptive Front-light System, which adjusts the headlight illumination in line with the car’s steering angle; and Road Sign Assist. In addition, the car is also equipped with a Blind Spot Monitor with Lane Change Departure Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Rear-end Collision Alert and intelligent parking. It really doesn't get much better than that.
Prices start at just under £53,000 (UK) making the GR Supra excellent value, comparatively. Check out our website where we have used variants of both current and previous models available. Supra is one of the most exciting names in mainstream motoring. Get on board.
Get in touch with us at MHH Japanese Cars and we'll be delighted to help you import your next car.
