Toyota GR Supra

Inside this coupe are a pair of black leather-clad, eight-way powered bucket seats with driver’s side memory, and lumbar support that offers deep inside bolsters for maximum hold. The black upholstery is matched with the same colored carbon fiber trims with some chrome accents to break the monotony. The cockpit consists of an 8.8-inch TFT LCD display with a tachometer and ode/trip meter and a matching leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters. The center console starts at the dashboard-mounted 8.8-inch touchscreen LCD monitor equipped with a navigation system but does not come with smartphone mirroring. Just below the monitor are the AC vents for the dual-zone air conditioning, knobs and button controls, and the shift-by-wire lever and knob. Connectivity is limited to Bluetooth and USB. On the plus side, the infotainment is partnered to a 12-speaker JBL HiFi surround sound system to keep your heart pumping to match your drive.

The fifth-generation Toyota Supra is based on the FT-1 concept. The curve bonnet leads directly to an impressive intake. On the sides are chic looking LED headlights with integrated daytime running lamps. On the sides are the low door opening with aerodynamic curves that work to minimize wind resistance and for added aesthetics. It then merges seamlessly to the massive rear fender flares. At the back is a tight rear spoiler, high mount stop lamp, LED taillights, and dual exhaust tailpipe. Available in seven color options, the classic Prominence Red is standard while the remaining six colors— Black Metallic, Lightning Yellow, Silver Metallic, Ice Gray Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, and White Metallic comes with an additional Php 48,000 on the price tag.

Driving a sports car is an adrenaline-pumping experience, and the Toyota Supra delivers. Its smooth, responsive, and well connected. Cornering is a no brainer as this Toyota sportscar can handle itself pretty well. Though the steering is only available in the automatic tranny, it has just an ample amount of weight and the response is intuitive and agile. Comfort and style are not lacking though the very low doors can be cumbersome for taller individuals to get in or out of this coupe. And since this superfine ride is built on low ground clearance, we suggest you don’t attempt to drive it on unpaved roads. Stick to the tracks, highways, and urban thoroughfares and you’ll see how the Toyota Supra can truly shine as a machine.

The current Toyota Supra is powered by a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder, in-line type, twin-scroll turbocharged engine that delivers a staggering 335 hp of output at 5,000 - 6,500 rpm and 500 Nm of torque at 1,600 – 4,500 rpm. The B58B30M1 2,998cc engine uses a direct injection fuel supply system and is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. No manual transmission option for the new Supra which some sportscar enthusiasts see as a more engaging drive but still, the automatic tranny is very responsive on this one. In terms of performance, the Supra can go from a standstill to 100 kmph in just 4.3 seconds and can reach a top speed of 250 kmph. In terms of mileage, the Supra can do 24 mpg or 10 kmpl on city driving, 31 mpg on the highway, or 13 kmpl for a combined driving range of 26 mpg or 11 kmpl.

When it comes to braking and safety, the Supra is lacking luster. The safety features of the vehicle include SRS airbags— driver, driver knee, passenger, side and curtain shield, vehicle stability control, traction control, and seatbelts. For security, this affordable Toyota sportscar is fitted with a wireless door lock and a Toyota Vehicle Security System that comprises of vehicle alarm and engine immobilizer. The driver-assist function is limited to just a cruise control, push start button, back monitor, and electric parking brake. For the braking system, the Supra is equipped with a ventilated disc with 4 piston fixed caliper at the front and ventilated disc with 1 piston floating caliper at the rear. It also includes an antilock braking system to prevent skid by preventing the wheels from locking up during braking to allow the sportscar to maintain traction with the road.

For its price, the Toyota Supra is indeed a solid and competent sports car though a tad old-fashioned in the sense that there is not much electronic intervention (especially on the cockpit and infotainment), but hey, that’s part of the coupe’s charm. There are sportscar enthusiasts who adore the vintage and focus more on essential hardware. The car drives very well— it’s smooth, responsive, and with just the right amount of roar. The all-new Toyota Supra is definitely worth the wait.