Auto review by
Veeno Dewan
The Toyota Supra is one of those iconic performance cars on looks alone it scores massive points with it squat long sensuous hood, outrageous bulging rear fenders and duck bill spoiler. The Sopra’s complex curves are wonderfully put together –some may say it looks over the top. But I for one love the design. It certainly does not look like anything else. But do note it uses mechanical, engines and some bits and pieces from the BMW Z4 Coupe – no bad thing!
For 2023 The GR Supra is available with a choice of two engines — 3.0 models feature a 3.0L inline 6 that generates 382 hp and 367 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.0 has a 2.0L 4-cylinder that produces 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The all-new Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) for the 3.0L Premium and A91-MT Edition models is a 6-speed gearbox An 8-speed automatic tranmission with paddle shifters is also offered.
Changes for 2023 models include new retuned traction control systems, upgraded braking, a vehicle stability control system enhanced with an anti-roll program, and an all-new performance Hairpin+ function. The 3.0 models also have retuned suspension and shock absorbers to improved stability and ride comfort. The electric power steering has also been tweaked and an active rear sport differential as standard equipment.
There are two models of Supra available: the base turbo four-cylinder 2.0 and the six-cylinder 3.0. The four-cylinder starts at $57,130. The 3.0 L Supra GR is $69,000 and gives buyers a 382-horsepower engine and 368 lb-ft, The BMW sourced 3.0-liter engine has a twin -scroll single turbo, DOHC 24-valve and a Launch Control system. The transmission: is an 8-Speed auto unit with paddle shifters, and manual mode.
The GR Supra arrives with Qi wireless smart phone charging system, colour heads-up display, 14-way power adjustable seats, red and black leather-trimmed interior, 19-inch forged aluminum alloy wheels, a sport exhaust, and adaptive suspension system. The new, limited-edition (50 units only) GR Supra 3.0 A91-MT Edition ($70,270) as tested adds on the 3.0 Premium manual model with a beautiful exclusive edition with its cool “CU later” Paint and classy cognac leather interior, unique 19-inch forged wheels, strut tower brace, and an Alcantara-clad shift knob and shift boot. Braking duties are taken care of with, Brembo® ventilated disc brakes,
The cabin is not as outrageous as the outside and is neat and driver focused with an 8.8-inch digital gauge cluster provides heated leather power bucket seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels good and the carbon-fibre trim adds a little contrast to the mostly all -black interior.. I do like the digital gauges in the Supra the driver-focused cockpit is snug, but fit like a glove when you settle in. The Supra is a two-seater and cargo space is accessed via the rear hatchback.
On the road, the 2023 We tested the 3.0L Supra With the ix speed manual transmission. It handles like a true sports car, nice rear wheelspin on hard standing, play with the launch control and you are rewarded with a real shove in the back rocket-like acceleration. The engine is immensely powerful and provides lot of torque off the line; meanwhile the six speed transmission offer quick, firm beautifully calibrated up and down shifts without any hesitation. I love that urgent exhaust note! Since it is rear-wheel drive, there is a proper electronic limited-slip differential and an adjustable performance traction management system. The steering has good on-center feel, and a nice heft and firmness. The handling is delight and it is so cool , the way the Supra can be dive -bombed into corners and on accelerate out with a shimmy and squirm at the rear as it shoot out of the turn. The new Hairpin+ allows more freewheel spin when taking tight bends on a high-friction surface with an uphill gradient. Track Mode has also been fine-tuned to enhance drifting.. It features rev-matching technology on both up and downshifts to help drivers manage even faster responses, and this feature can be disabled in Sport driving mode. The variable ratio steering, and electronically controlled suspension provide agile responses and a balanced ride and handling. The Brembo brakes are strong and bite very quickly. Surprisingly, the cabin is quiet, not at all booming or noisy.
To sum up the Supra performs like a well-bred sports car without the uncomfortable ride or cockpit. It looks simply fantastic, sounds wonderful. Small, with a powerful engine and excellent handling the Supra offers true, pure -bred sports car thrills in an awesome package. Highly recommended.
2023 Toyota Supra GR: Base MSRP: $69,000. As tested – $72,618 116 including options, freight and PDI
More info at: www.toyota.ca
