All-New Toyota Supra Review: A Modern Sports Car Legend

The Legend Returns

The legend is back! It’s the all-new Toyota Supra, the car that enthusiasts from across the globe have been eagerly waiting to experience for the past seventeen years. Heavily criticized for being built in collaboration with BMW, we’ll delve into whether the all-new Supra can still be referred to as a Japanese legend, or if it has lost its JDM crown.

Exterior

Stunning from every angle, the 2020 Supra is based on the beautiful FT-1 Concept Car unveiled in 2014, showcasing a magnificent design carried into production by Toyota. While older models of the Supra were more akin to grand tourers with four seats, the new Supra is very much a compact sports car. With an overall length matching that of the 86, the new Supra is compact both inside and out, but its lower, wider stance and shorter wheelbase allow it to drive quite differently.

The most surprising design elements on the all-new Supra are the numerous artificial vents along the bodywork. While they add aesthetic appeal and lend the car a more aggressive stance, eight artificial vents along the bumpers, hood, and fenders may be an overkill. However, sources suggest that these vents can be opened when necessary, showcasing thoughtful engineering to prevent owners from modifying the bodywork.

Interior

The German connection is more evident than ever in the all-new Supra's interior, which is luxurious, well-built, and well-designed but also shares a striking resemblance with older BMW models. The overall layout and buttons feel like they are straight from the BMW parts bin, which may detract from the Toyota identity. However, this means the Supra has considerably less hard plastic than typically found in a Japanese sports car.

With a low seating position and concealed outward visibility, the Supra meets the expectations of a proper sports car. Features include a 12-speaker JBL audio system, dual-zone climate control, and an 8.8-inch infotainment screen, along with cruise control and electric seats.

Drive

Under the hood, the all-new Supra features the same BMW B58 inline-six engine and ZF 8-speed automatic transmission found in the BMW Z4. While some may question the authenticity of the Supra given its BMW engine, it’s essential to note that Toyota’s in-house racing team, Gazoo Racing, has enhanced the engine to give it a unique personality.

With 335 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, the Supra has the necessary punch to accelerate quickly. If you apply the accelerator too aggressively, it may spin its wheels before the traction control system intervenes. The Supra is equipped with an exhaust system that features adjustable valves based on the driving mode. In Sport mode, the valves open to produce exciting pops and crackles during acceleration and deceleration, transforming into a more subdued cruiser when closed.

With peak torque available at just 1,600 RPM, there is no noticeable lag in delivery. The Supra remains in the power band almost continuously and can rev past the 6,000 RPM mark before reaching redline. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, an impressive feat. However, the steering feels heavy and lacks the feedback expected from a sports car, which may detract from the driving experience.

Verdict

Priced at 229,000 Dirhams, the Toyota Supra is an affordable sports car for most enthusiasts. While it's exciting to see the nameplate continue, the similarities with the Z4 may lead some to question whether the Supra still embodies its status as a Japanese icon. Nevertheless, the collaboration with the Z4 has undoubtedly kept the Supra alive, enabling newer generations to appreciate its legacy.