“That’s a Toyota?”

Yes, it really is a Toyota. It’s the latest Supra, the two-seat sports/grand touring car that Toyota has produced, off and on, since Jimmy Carter was President. The last Supra, from 1993 to ‘98, was then the most expensive Toyota ever—around $35,000, as I recall, and the twin-turbo version was also the most powerful Toyota. Today’s Supra is out-priced and out-powered only by the lofty Land Cruiser. 

A few months ago, the first version of this newest Supra, the 2020 model, impressed us. Recently, a 2021 model arrived—also a GR 3.0 Premium, the top trim level with the 3.0-litre inline-six engine, which is now turbocharged to 382 horsepower (up from 335) and 368 lb-ft of torque. The car is a ripper off the line and at any speed even remotely legal it responds eagerly to the throttle. 

Much of the sharp response is due to the brilliant 8-speed automatic transmission, which can be shifted manually with finger paddles behind the steering wheel, but really doesn’t need any help from us at all. No manual gearbox is available (yet). 

Back in August, our 2020 Supra GR listed for $56,615; this ’21 model costs $56,760. The two cars are identically equipped except that Vehicle Stability Control is missing from the ‘21 spec sheet. Then and now, the Premium trim package has about everything imaginable, from radar cruise control and all of today’s active safety features to a touchpad, customizable driving modes, an inductive phone charger and plenty more. All this plus an extra 47 horsepower for an upcharge of just $145 makes the new, new Supra feel like a bargain. 

Back to the initial question: That’s a Toyota? Yes, and no. Beneath its convoluted sheet metal, the Supra is a BMW Z4—same engines, same suspension, same platform and made in Austria—but a Z4 with this twin-turbo Six starts at $63,700 and can be optioned up to $69,850. Yes, the BMW is a convertible and the Supra a hardtop, but how much extra are you willing to spend for a German badge and open-air motoring? 

This second stint in a Supra GR confirms everything from the first drive: The fitted sport seats are supportive and comfy. Sport mode is properly aggressive while Normal drive mode, even with the stiff suspension, is acceptable for long hauls. The cabin is slightly claustrophobic, and I still bump my head every time I get in or out, but otherwise the ergonomics are fine. 

Cutting-edge performance coupes now have their engines tucked behind the seats, but on the road—as opposed to the racetrack—there’s still much to be said for this front-engine, rear-drive layout. The classic, long nose-short tail profile looks powerful, pleases the eye and also contributes to stability at speed. The Supra is rewarding at any speed. 

Silvio Calabi has been reviewing cars since Ronald Reagan removed the solar panels from the White House. He lives in Camden.