The latest Supra (named GR Supra for Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division) shares its platform and mechanical bits with the BMW Z4. For fans of performance driving, there’s much to like here. The latest generation offers a choice of two turbocharged engines, a cozy driver-oriented cockpit, aggressive suspension, and a right-proper manual transmission. Over its long lifespan, the Supra has had an on-again-off-again relationship with production, with a noticeable gap between the fourth and fifth generations.
Toyota Supra Generations
Toyota Supra (5th Generation: 2020 - Current)
Key Improvements: The fifth-generation Supra veers wildly from all others. Whereas previous Supra generations were designed and built in Japan, the fifth-generation car shares much of its mechanicals with the BMW Z4 and is assembled in Austria. Toyota changes the sheet metal and tweaks the suspension, brakes, and steering, but the engine, transmission, and frame are all BMW. Depending on the year, you’ll choose between a 225-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder or 382-hp turbocharged inline-6. An 8-speed automatic is standard, with a manual transmission offered later in the model run. This generation also gains several technological innovations, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, a touchscreen interface with wireless Apple CarPlay, adaptive dampers, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, and a color head-up display. When equipped with the 6-cylinder engine, the GR Supra can accelerate to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 155 mph.
Model Updates: For 2021, the GR Supra gains a less powerful and less costly 4-cylinder engine option, while the standard 6-cylinder gains more power. The 2022 Premium trim gets heated seats, while 2023 sees the adoption of a 6-speed manual transmission. For 2025, the 4-cylinder engine gets dropped.
Toyota Supra (4th Generation: 1994 - 1998)
Key Improvements: The fourth-generation Supra improves over the third with a more dynamic chassis, powerful engines, and better seats. Sharing its platform with the Lexus SC coupe improves rigidity and overall build quality. The standard 6-cylinder engine has almost as much horsepower as the previous generation's turbo, rated at 220 hp. An optional twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder pumps out 320 hp. A 5-speed manual comes standard, with the turbocharged models getting one additional gear. This generation has more features, including dual airbags, traction control, larger wheels and tires, and bigger brakes. Some more popular carryover features include the targa top and sport seats, while things like adaptive shocks and a telescoping steering wheel get left behind. Many also feel the fourth-gen Supra'a minimalist interior cost the car some of its upscale vibe. With the twin-turbocharged engine, the Supra can dash to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
Model Updates: 1996 sees the targa top become standard on turbo models and drops the manual transmission option. In 1997, the manual returns along with some minor cosmetic upgrades. For its final year, the Supra gains a 3-spoke steering wheel, a new radio design, and variable valve timing on the base non-turbocharged engine.
Toyota Supra (3rd Generation: 1986 - 1993)
The third-generation Supra elevates the car to a true European competitor, equipped with an available turbocharged engine, advanced adaptive shocks, more upscale features, and new design elements such as a removable targa top. Everything from the cabin to the seats to the audio systems see improvement. For the first time, the Supra becomes a distinct model, separate from the Celica line on which it was previously based. The base 6-cylinder engine produces 200 hp, while the turbocharged version pumps out 230 hp. Other advancements include antilock brakes, front and rear double wishbone suspension, a limited-slip differential, headlight washers, and, after 1990, a driver’s airbag.
Toyota Supra (2nd Generation: 1982 - 1986)
The second-generation Supra establishes the car's place as a viable performance coupe. The razor-sharp styling and pop-up headlights create a far more distinctive impression than the first gen, as does a cockpit featuring multi-adjustable sport seats, more luxury features, and an upgraded audio system with a built-in equalizer. A 6-cylinder engine is standard, with horsepower ranging from 130 to 163 depending on the year. Other changes include an independent rear suspension.
Toyota Supra (1st Generation: 1979 - 1981)
The first Supra arrives in 1979. It is an extension of the Celica but with a more luxurious interior, sportier suspension, a longer wheelbase, and a standard 6-cylinder engine. Sporty alloy wheels and two-tone paint options further differentiate the Supra from other Toyota cars, as do options like power windows and door locks, ribbed velour seat fabric, automatic climate control, and cruise control.
Toyota Supra Buying Tips
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