The Toyota Supra: A Return To Glory, Or Just A Nostalgia Trip? - Automotive News

The Toyota Supra: A Return to Glory, or Just a Nostalgia Trip?

The Toyota Supra: A Return to Glory, or Just a Nostalgia Trip?

The Toyota Supra, a name synonymous with legendary status in the automotive world, has returned after a 20-year hiatus. This resurrection, however, comes with a twist. It’s not a standalone Toyota creation, but a collaborative effort with BMW, sharing its underpinnings with the Z4 roadster. This partnership has sparked debate: is the new Supra a worthy successor to its iconic predecessor, or just a re-skinned Bavarian machine?

This comprehensive review aims to delve into the heart of the 2023 Toyota Supra, exploring its performance, handling, design, and practicality, while also addressing the controversial topic of its BMW lineage.

Performance: A Beast Unleashed

Under the hood, the Supra packs a punch. The base model boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a respectable 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. However, the true star is the 3.0-liter inline-six, found in the Supra 3.0 and 3.0 Premium trims. This powerhouse delivers a thrilling 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Supra from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.9 seconds.

The Supra’s performance is not just about raw power; it’s about the driving experience. The tight steering, precise handling, and responsive throttle make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The eight-speed automatic transmission, while not a manual, shifts smoothly and quickly, allowing you to exploit the engine’s full potential.

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• 1 The Toyota Supra: A Return to Glory, or Just a Nostalgia Trip?

Handling: A Dance on the Edge

The Supra’s handling is arguably its most impressive feature. The car feels incredibly balanced, with a low center of gravity and a rigid chassis that inspires confidence. The suspension, tuned for both comfort and performance, manages to absorb bumps effectively while maintaining a sporty edge.

The Supra’s agility is further enhanced by its rear-wheel drive setup, allowing for playful oversteer in the right conditions. However, this inherent rear-wheel drive characteristic can also be a challenge for inexperienced drivers, as it requires a delicate touch to control.

Design: A Symphony of Nostalgia and Modernity

The Supra’s design is a captivating blend of retro inspiration and modern flair. The long hood, sloping roofline, and distinctive rear end evoke the spirit of its predecessors, while the sharp lines and aggressive stance scream modern sportiness.

The front fascia features a large, gaping grille that dominates the front end, along with sharp, LED headlights that add to the car’s menacing look. The rear end is equally striking, with a diffuser, dual exhaust tips, and a spoiler that hint at the car’s performance capabilities.

Interior: A Mix of Sport and Luxury

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Step inside the Supra, and you’re greeted with a sporty yet luxurious interior. The driver-focused cockpit features a thick-rimmed steering wheel, supportive bucket seats, and a minimalist dashboard. The materials used are mostly high-quality, with soft-touch plastics and leather upholstery adding to the premium feel.

While the Supra’s interior is undeniably sporty, it does fall short in terms of practicality. The rear seats are cramped and best suited for small children or cargo. The trunk space is also limited, making it unsuitable for long road trips or hauling large items.

Practicality: A Compromise for Performance

As mentioned, the Supra prioritizes performance over practicality. This is reflected in its cramped interior, limited cargo space, and lack of advanced driver-assistance features. While these drawbacks may deter some buyers, they are ultimately a necessary compromise for the car’s thrilling driving experience.

The BMW Connection: A Blessing or a Curse?

The Supra’s shared platform with the BMW Z4 has been a subject of debate. While some argue that it compromises the car’s Toyota identity, others contend that it benefits from BMW’s engineering expertise.

The truth lies somewhere in between. The Supra’s chassis, engine, and transmission are all sourced from BMW, which undeniably affects the car’s character. However, Toyota has carefully tuned the Supra’s suspension and steering to give it a distinct driving experience. The result is a car that feels more like a Toyota than a BMW, despite its shared components.

Conclusion: A Return to Glory, With a Twist

The 2023 Toyota Supra is a compelling sports car that delivers an exhilarating driving experience. Its performance, handling, and design are all impressive, and its interior, while not the most practical, is undeniably sporty and luxurious. However, the Supra’s BMW connection is a double-edged sword, offering both benefits and drawbacks.

For those seeking a purebred Toyota, the Supra may not be the perfect choice. However, for those who appreciate a blend of Japanese heritage and German engineering, the Supra offers a unique and compelling driving experience. It’s a car that can turn heads, ignite passions, and deliver a sense of exhilaration that few other vehicles can match.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the 2023 Toyota Supra:

Pros:

• Exceptional performance: The 3.0-liter inline-six engine is a true gem, delivering exhilarating power and a thrilling driving experience.
• Superb handling: The Supra’s balanced chassis and precise steering make it a joy to drive on winding roads.
• Striking design: The Supra’s blend of retro inspiration and modern flair is visually captivating.
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• High-quality interior: The Supra’s cabin is well-appointed, with premium materials and a sporty layout.
• Unique driving experience: The Supra’s combination of Japanese heritage and German engineering results in a distinctive driving experience.

Cons:

• Limited practicality: The Supra’s cramped interior and small trunk space make it unsuitable for families or those who need a lot of cargo space.
• Lack of advanced driver-assistance features: The Supra lacks some of the advanced safety features found in other modern cars.
• High price: The Supra is a relatively expensive sports car, especially when compared to its competitors.
• BMW connection: The Supra’s shared platform with the BMW Z4 may be a turn-off for some buyers who are looking for a purebred Toyota.

Overall, the 2023 Toyota Supra is a compelling sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience. It’s a car that can turn heads, ignite passions, and deliver a sense of exhilaration that few other vehicles can match. However, its limited practicality and high price may make it a difficult choice for some buyers.

Beyond the Review: Leasing the Supra

The question of leasing versus buying a Supra is a personal decision, heavily influenced by individual needs and financial situations. Here’s a breakdown of the factors to consider:

Leasing Advantages:

• Lower monthly payments: Leasing generally offers lower monthly payments compared to financing, making the Supra more accessible.
• New car every few years: Leasing allows you to drive a new car every few years, giving you access to the latest technology and features.
• No depreciation concerns: You’re not responsible for the depreciation of the car, as it’s returned to the leasing company at the end of the term.
• Potential tax benefits: Depending on your situation, leasing can offer tax advantages.

Leasing Disadvantages:

• Limited mileage: Most leases come with mileage restrictions, which can be a problem for frequent drivers.
• No ownership: You don’t own the car at the end of the lease, and you’ll need to pay for any damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• Potential penalties: You may face penalties for exceeding the mileage limit or for returning the car in poor condition.

Buying Advantages:

• Ownership: You own the car and can keep it for as long as you like.
• No mileage restrictions: You can drive as many miles as you want.
• Potential appreciation: Some cars, especially classics, can appreciate in value over time.

Buying Disadvantages:

• Higher monthly payments: Financing a car typically results in higher monthly payments than leasing.
• Depreciation: Cars depreciate in value over time, and you’ll need to factor this into your financial planning.
• Maintenance costs: You’re responsible for all maintenance and repair costs.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to lease or buy a Supra depends on your individual needs, financial situation, and driving habits. Consider your budget, mileage requirements, and long-term goals before making a decision.

In Conclusion:

The Toyota Supra is a car that evokes strong emotions, stirring both nostalgia and excitement. It’s a car that embodies the spirit of its legendary predecessors while embracing the modern world of performance and technology. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of sports cars, the Supra is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Just remember, before you take the plunge, carefully consider your needs and financial situation. Whether you choose to lease or buy, the Supra is a car that promises an unforgettable driving experience.

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