Exactly five years after the unveiling of the FT-1 Concept, Toyota has finally introduced an all-new Supra to the world.
It was a long gestation period but it’s safe to say the fifth-generation Supra A90 was worth the wait. By now chances are you’re no longer a stranger to the new model’s design in light of the recent leaks so we’ll focus on the performance part.
The influences from the FT-1 study are obvious on the outside as the Supra has a very muscular appearance. The interior, however, has a strong BMW vibe about it which is understandable given that the Supra shares the underpinnings with the all-new Z4 roadster. Sure, a cabin inspired by the FT-1 Concept would have been more spectacular but we should be grateful this car exists in the first place.
The quickest Toyota-branded production car to date: 0-60 in 4.1 seconds
The 2020 Toyota GR Supra debuts with a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that makes… wait for it, 335 horsepower! That’s 47 ponies less than the BMW Z4 M40i. The peak torque is 365 lb-ft (494 Nm), 4 lb-ft (6 Nm) less than in the BMW.
Linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, the straight-six engine allows the Supra to go from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) in an estimated 4.1 seconds, with a top track speed electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). That would make it the quickest Toyota-branded production vehicle to date.
The carmaker also promises the Supra will offer “an exhilarating blend of power, precision, and agility” thanks to its rear-wheel-drive design, low center of gravity and a 50:50 weight distribution.
Normal and Sport driving modes, active rear differential
The 2020 Supra will offer two driving modes, Normal and Sport. The latter reduces intervention of the traction and stability control functions as well as sharpening throttle response, increasing steering weight, improving transmission shift crispness. It also tunes the active differential more aggressively and amplifies the exhaust sound.
Speaking of the active differential, it uses an electric motor and multi-plate clutches to control lateral torque. The diff varies torque distribution between the rear wheels when cornering under both acceleration and braking. The system also ensures neutral handling by reducing both understeer and oversteer, according to Toyota.
The Supra features a double-joint spring strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension that are said to favor both precise handling and ride quality. The Supra will feature 19-inch forged alloy wheels as standard shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires sized 255/35 R19 at the front and 275/35 R19 at the rear.
*Developing story