The Future of the Toyota Supra: A Compelling Mystery Unveiled
Since its introduction in 2019 as the Japanese counterpart to the BMW Z4, the Toyota Supra has captivated automotive enthusiasts around the world. However, as we approach the final chapter of the MkV Supra, a sense of anticipation and uncertainty looms over the fate of this iconic sports car.
The first question that arises is, what happens to the fifth-generation Supra now that BMW Z4 production is set to end at Magna Steyr’s Graz, Austria plant next year? Without a solid base to build upon, the future seems uncertain. Will there be a sixth-generation Supra?
Despite not achieving sky-high sales figures, Toyota’s passion project has proven its worth in the niche coupe and convertible segment. In fact, the Supra’s best year in the U.S. was in 2021, with 6,830 units sold. Although it dipped to 2,652 units last year, these numbers are not to be undermined. To put it into perspective, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, a less expensive competitor, has surpassed 10,000 units sold in the U.S. only five times in the last two decades. The most recent accomplishment was in 2021.
The struggle for Toyota’s executives is evident when they mention the need to ensure a viable business case for the Supra. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the Supra’s story will end here. Toyota remains tight-lipped about its future plans, with the company stating that they have “nothing to announce at this time.”
Dave Christ, North American Group VP at Toyota, hints at the possibility of going it alone with the Supra. He confidently states, “I think if we want to build something, we’ll figure out how to build it.” This suggests that Toyota is evaluating their options and considering different approaches for the Supra’s continuation.
Although it may seem like a far-fetched hope, recent engine announcements from Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda regarding ICE (internal combustion engine) development offer a glimpse of what the future could hold. Toyota aims to create compact, smaller-displacement hybrid engines of 1.5 and 2.0 liters that deliver more power and better fuel economy than the current 2.0- and 2.4-liter units. Honda is also exploring similar ideas with its Prelude concept. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to assume that Toyota is at least considering these possibilities for the Supra.
The next chapter in the Supra’s journey is expected to unfold next year with the introduction of a GRMN Supra. This model is rumored to be powered by a BMW M3 engine, marking an exciting collaboration between the two automotive giants. Furthermore, there are whispers of the long-awaited return of a manual transmission option for the Supra.
As we eagerly await more clues and details about Toyota’s plans for the Supra, one thing is certain: the story is far from over. With its rich history and loyal fanbase, the Supra has become an automotive legend. Toyota understands this and will undoubtedly strive to ensure that the Supra’s legacy lives on, even if it means facing new challenges and charting a different course. The final pages of the Book of Supra are yet to be written, and we can’t help but feel excited about the captivating surprises that await us in the coming years.
