2024 Toyota Supra: Embracing the Manual and Erasing Doubts

The Toyota Supra’s revival was met with a wave of initial criticism, much of it centered around its close ties to BMW. “Too much BMW,” the critics cried, lamenting the shared DNA with the Z4. But in an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by homogenous crossovers and electric vehicles, isn’t a truly engaging sports car, regardless of its origins, something to celebrate? The 2024 Toyota GR Supra is precisely that – a phenomenal sports car, and now, with the addition of a manual transmission, it elevates the driving experience to a new level.

For those unfamiliar, the backstory of the current generation Supra involves a collaborative effort between Toyota and BMW. The two automotive giants joined forces to develop a shared platform, from which BMW crafted the Z4 roadster and Toyota resurrected the iconic Supra nameplate. Both vehicles roll off the assembly line at Magna Steyr in Austria, blurring the lines of traditional automotive nationality.

Despite sharing fundamental underpinnings, the Supra carves its own distinct identity. It’s visually arresting, unlike anything else on the road, and has always delivered a thrilling drive. The introduction of a manual gearbox in the 2024 model year addresses a key desire of driving purists, placing it firmly within the dwindling ranks of sports cars that prioritize driver engagement. Does the shared heritage detract from the Supra experience? Absolutely not.

The Supra’s Building Blocks: Unpacking the BMW Connection

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the extent of BMW’s influence on the Supra. The reality is, it’s substantial. Beneath the Supra’s sculpted sheet metal resides a BMW engine, BMW transmissions, BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, and a plethora of interior components sourced directly from the Bavarian automaker’s parts catalog. Stepping inside, the aroma itself might even evoke a BMW cabin. In essence, the Supra shares its core architecture and many key components with the BMW Z4 coupe.

However, to fixate solely on its BMW lineage is to miss the forest for the trees. The Supra’s exterior design is undeniably unique and captivating. It may not adhere to conventional notions of beauty, but it commands attention with an assertive road presence that is simply undeniable. The long, sweeping hood, the pronounced rear haunches, and the integrated ducktail spoiler coalesce to create a design that is both modern and evocative of its legendary predecessors. While some may quibble with the purely aesthetic vents, the overall visual impact is undeniably “cool.” The 45th Anniversary Edition, in particular, amplifies this visual drama with its striking orange paint and black wheels, a clear nod to the iconic Supra from the Fast & Furious franchise that propelled the car into pop culture stardom.

Stepping inside the Supra, the cabin aesthetic doesn’t quite match the exterior’s visual punch. The all-black interior can feel somewhat somber, and the use of BMW parts is readily apparent. The steering wheel, seemingly borrowed from a Mini Cooper, the BMW-sourced climate controls, and the previous-generation BMW iDrive system (albeit with Toyota-themed colors) contribute to a familiar BMW ambiance. The gauge cluster, notably compact, is another point of contention. However, the most significant drawback of the interior is visibility. The narrow front windows, thick C-pillars, and a restricted rear window create significant blind spots, making maneuvering in tight spaces a challenge. Even for average-height drivers, the view can feel constrained. Despite these shortcomings, the shifter design is প্রশংসনীয়, both visually appealing and ergonomically satisfying, and the seats offer excellent support and comfort.

Driving Dynamics: The Manual Makes Its Mark

One BMW-derived element that warrants no criticism is the engine. The BMW-sourced 3.0-liter turbocharged B58 inline-six is a masterpiece of engineering. Producing a potent 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, this engine, now paired with a crisp six-speed manual transmission, transforms the Supra into a truly rapid machine. Second-gear acceleration is breathtaking, capable of reaching speeds that can quickly lead to license revocation on public roads. While the clutch feel might mirror contemporary BMW clutches – characterized by a somewhat vague engagement point and a springy response – it’s a minor imperfection easily overshadowed by the sheer joy of rowing through the gears with nearly 400 horsepower at your command. This powertrain combination is arguably among the finest available today, a testament to internal combustion performance that deserves appreciation in an era of electrification.

The decision by Toyota to offer a manual transmission in the Supra is a game-changer. It fundamentally alters the driver’s interaction with the car, shifting the focus towards the Supra’s strengths and minimizing attention on its perceived weaknesses. While the engine’s inherent BMW character was more pronounced when coupled with the eight-speed automatic transmission – mimicking BMW’s shift patterns and behavior – the manual gearbox injects a sense of driver control and involvement. Suddenly, the powertrain feels more uniquely Supra, less overtly BMW. The manual transmission amplifies driver engagement, bringing the Supra’s other dynamic attributes – its razor-sharp steering (though perhaps a touch light), powerful brakes, and playful rear-wheel-drive chassis – into sharper focus.

Having recently revisited the Supra, the steering feels lighter and the suspension firmer than previous impressions. It has evolved beyond simply feeling like a Z4 coupe, developing its own distinct character and driving personality, a welcome evolution.

Ultimately, the Supra excels at transforming driving into an event. From the visual impact of its striking design to the low-slung seating position, the evocative roar of the inline-six engine, and the tactile satisfaction of engaging the manual gearbox, every element contributes to a sense of occasion. The Supra is more than just transportation; it’s an experience, something to anticipate and relish. And isn’t that the very essence of a true sports car?

Highlights and Considerations

Living with and driving the Supra offers a multitude of rewards. The most compelling aspects are undoubtedly its captivating aesthetics and exhilarating powertrain. The daily experience of approaching such a visually striking sports car provides a consistent dose of automotive joy. It attracts attention, sparking conversations and eliciting enthusiastic reactions. And then there’s the driving experience itself, centered around that magnificent engine and engaging manual transmission. Few remedies for a challenging day can rival the therapeutic effects of a potent engine and a manual gearbox. The Supra delivers both in spades.

However, the Supra isn’t without its minor drawbacks. While the inclusion of a manual transmission is a significant plus, the clutch pedal itself can be somewhat finicky. Mirroring the characteristics of modern BMW clutches, the engagement point is vague, and the pedal exhibits an overly springy feel in the middle of its travel. This can make smooth clutch engagement challenging initially. However, with acclimatization, this becomes less of an issue, and aftermarket solutions are available for those seeking further refinement. Price is another consideration, particularly when opting for higher trim levels and option packages. While the base price for the 3.0-liter model is competitive for its performance, adding premium features and advanced safety technologies can push the price into the territory of more expensive rivals like the Corvette. However, it’s worth noting that the Corvette doesn’t offer a manual transmission.

Market Positioning and Alternatives

To its credit, the Supra is well-equipped even in base form, minimizing the need for expensive options. Standard features include adaptive sport suspension, a limited-slip rear differential, Brembo brakes, and heated seats. The core driving essentials are all present and accounted for.

Does the Supra distinguish itself within the sports car segment? Arguably, yes. Competitors in a similar price range include rear-wheel-drive sports cars like the Ford Mustang GT, BMW M2, and Nissan Z. However, the Supra occupies a unique niche as the only dedicated two-seat, purpose-built sports car among them, and its styling is arguably the most distinctive. While rivals may offer greater practicality with rear seats and larger trunks, the Supra prioritizes focused sports car performance and head-turning design.

Fuel Efficiency Considerations

Fuel economy wasn’t a primary focus during the test drive, given the performance-oriented nature of the car. However, under more conservative driving conditions, the Supra demonstrates respectable efficiency for its class. EPA ratings of 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined (for the manual transmission model) position it as the most fuel-efficient among its direct competitors. While fuel economy isn’t typically a deciding factor for sports car buyers, the Supra’s relative efficiency is a welcome bonus.

Final Verdict: A Resounding Yes for the Manual Supra

The 2024 Toyota Supra, particularly with the newly available manual transmission, earns a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a rear-wheel-drive sports car. Its blend of power, performance, and driving engagement meets or surpasses its rivals in the price bracket. Opting for the base model and being judicious with optional extras is advisable to maximize value.

Dismiss any lingering criticisms regarding its BMW connection or perceived lack of unique character. The GR Supra is, unequivocally, an outstanding sports car. It boasts striking looks, a quintessential inline-six engine (as befitting the Supra lineage), and now, the option of a six-speed manual gearbox. Cars of this caliber are becoming increasingly rare. So, regardless of its manufacturing origins, let’s celebrate and appreciate the 2024 Toyota GR Supra while it’s still here.

The Supra is, simply put, a triumph.