The Toyota Supra. Just the name itself evokes a sense of automotive passion, a legacy of performance, and striking design. For enthusiasts, the Supra isn’t just a car; it’s an icon. And the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium? It’s a testament to how a legend can be reborn and continue to captivate. Returning to the helm of this thrilling two-seater recently, I was yet again reminded of the Supra’s magnetic charm – a vehicle that seamlessly blends the exhilaration of a true sports car with head-turning aesthetics. This car isn’t just good-looking; it’s a visual masterpiece from every angle.
Exterior Design: A Modern Icon
In the realm of two-seater sports cars, the Supra stands out, arguably as the most visually arresting creation on the market today. Having recently experienced the 2022 Supra 2.0 in a vibrant red, stepping into the 3.0 Premium, cloaked in a sophisticated Black Metallic, was a revelation. The darker hue only amplifies the car’s inherent drama and sculpted form.
The proportions of the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium are nothing short of perfect. The elongated hood, flowing silhouette, and the distinct rear, complete with an integrated spoiler, coalesce to form a truly breathtaking automobile. The double-bubble roofline, a nod to the iconic 2000 GT, further cements its heritage and aerodynamic prowess.
Stepping up to the 3.0 Premium trim brings with it larger, 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, a significant upgrade from the 2.0’s 18-inch counterparts. These are not just for show; wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, they promise and deliver exceptional grip and road holding.
The entire Supra range is illuminated by LED technology, encompassing the headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights. The 3.0 Premium model further enhances its premium appeal with matte black, auto-folding, heated side mirrors with memory function, and dual exhaust outlets finished with brushed stainless steel tips, adding subtle yet significant touches of refinement.
Performance Prowess: Unleashing the Inline-Six
For those who crave performance, especially on the track, the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium is the clear choice over the 2.0. At its heart lies a potent 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine, a powerhouse delivering a thrilling 382 horsepower and 368 lb.-ft. of torque. This is a substantial leap from the 2.0-liter four-cylinder’s still respectable 255 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. The result is exhilarating speed. Toyota officially clocks the 0-60 mph sprint at a mere 3.9 seconds, a figure that truly comes alive from behind the wheel.
Currently, both rear-wheel-drive Supra models are equipped with a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, offering quick and engaging gear changes. However, for purists, the exciting news is the arrival of a manual gearbox option for the 3.0 model in 2023, promising an even more connected driving experience.
Beyond power, there are other key differences between the 2.0 and 3.0 models. The 3.0 variant carries approximately 200 additional pounds, indicative of its more robust components and features. It also sits slightly lower, with 2 inches less ground clearance, further enhancing its sporty stance and handling dynamics.
Interior Ambiance: A Driver-Focused Cabin
From its inception, the interior of this generation Supra has impressed. However, the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium elevates the cabin experience significantly with the introduction of a striking red leather-trimmed interior, a new option for this model year. The red leather sport seats are not just visually stunning; they are engineered for performance, providing excellent support with well-contoured side bolsters that keep you firmly in place during spirited driving. The driver’s seat in the 3.0 Premium is a 14-way power-adjustable marvel, offering a wide range of customization compared to the manual adjustments in the 2.0.
The influence of the Toyota-BMW partnership, which was instrumental in the Supra’s 2019 revival, is evident in the cabin’s design and execution. High-quality materials abound, including carbon fiber trim accents, heated seats, sporty pedals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Dual-zone climate control and a standard 12-speaker JBL sound system further enhance the premium feel.
The center console is intuitively laid out, housing the gear selector, multimedia rotary dial, and controls for sport mode, automatic start/stop, and the electronic parking brake. Conveniently integrated wireless charging is also included in this space.
Technologically, the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium is well-equipped with two 8-inch screens – one serving as a digital driver display and the other for the responsive Supra Command infotainment system. A notable upgrade for 2022 is the inclusion of full-screen wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility, adding seamless smartphone integration.
Cargo area of the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium demonstrating surprising storage capacity
In terms of practicality, the Supra offers a surprisingly usable amount of cargo space for a sports car. It proved more than adequate for everyday errands, demonstrating that performance and practicality can coexist.
Driving Dynamics: Pure Sports Car Thrills
The 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium is fundamentally engineered as a sports car for driving enthusiasts, and in this regard, it truly excels. The driving experience is nothing short of exhilarating, defined by remarkable acceleration and finely tuned handling. This is achieved through a suite of sophisticated engineering features, including an active rear sport differential, aerodynamic underbody panels, adaptive variable sport suspension, and powerful front Brembo brakes with distinctive red calipers.
The auditory experience is equally compelling. The active exhaust system delivers a satisfying growl that intensifies in sport mode, creating an immersive and engaging soundscape. While not designed for silent cruising, the road noise is hardly a distraction; instead, it enhances the sense of connection to the road, becoming part of the overall sensory experience.
Safety and Technology Integration
My test vehicle was equipped with Toyota’s optional Driver Assist package, a welcome addition that immediately instills confidence. This package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Parking Sensors with Emergency Braking Function.
The 3.0 Premium also features a standard color Head-Up Display, projecting essential driving information directly onto the windshield with excellent clarity and graphics.
Standard driver assistance features across the Supra lineup include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning with Steering Assist, Speed Limit Information, a rearview camera, and Automatic High Beams, underscoring Toyota’s commitment to safety.
Value Proposition
The as-tested MSRP for this 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium, including options like the Driver Assist Package, cargo carpet mat, wheel locks, and emergency kit, totaled $57,114. Considering its striking looks, exhilarating performance, and premium features, the Supra represents exceptional value, especially for those seeking a high-caliber sports car under the $60,000 mark.
Verdict: An Enthusiast’s Dream
By now, my admiration for the Supra should be clear. Whether carving through canyon roads or simply running daily errands, the 2022 Toyota Supra 3.0 Premium transforms every drive into an event, all while drawing admiring glances wherever it goes. If you’re in the market for a stunning sports car that delivers on both style and substance for under $60,000, the Supra 3.0 Premium is an absolute must-consider.
As a bonus, every 2022 GR Supra includes a complimentary one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA), further emphasizing its track-ready credentials.
Key Highlights:
- Top features: Stunning aesthetics, exhilarating performance, and the new red leather interior option.
- Wish list: More advanced driver-assistance features as standard.
- Base MSRP: $54,690; As tested MSRP: $57,114 (including destination and options).
- Fuel Economy: 22 mpg city/30 mpg highway/25 mpg combined (Premium fuel required).
- Test Mileage: 3,873 miles at the time of review.
- Vehicle Weight: 3,400 pounds.
- Spare Tire: Puncture Repair Kit.
- Dimensions: 172.5” length / 73” width / 50.9” height.
- Fuel Capacity: 13.7 gallons.
- Exterior Color: Black Metallic.
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable.
- In a nutshell: The 2022 Supra 3.0 Premium is a call to driving enthusiasts – one drive and you’ll be captivated.
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty; 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
- Assembly Location: Graz, Austria.
- Manufacturer Website: Toyota
