Supra-Stars

The 5th generation of Supra was the first joint project between Toyota & BMW

After more than 20 years of waiting, fans can now purchase the fifth-generation 2020 Toyota GR Supra at Toyota dealerships nationwide.

The all-new Supra features a blend of power, precision and agility, according to the company, paying homage to its predecessors with a twin-scroll turbocharged inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive design, low center of gravity and optimized weight balance.

The first 1,500 Supras will be Launch Edition models, which are based on the 3.0 Premium grade, Toyota announced.

“Each will be uniquely numbered and have distinctive features signifying the exclusivity and excitement of Supra’s return,” according to a press release.

The Supra Launch Edition is available in Absolute Zero White, Nocturnal Black or Renaissance Red 2.0, each featuring high-contrast red mirror caps and 19-inch forged matte black alloy wheels.

The Absolute Zero White and Nocturnal Black Supra Launch Editions have a red interior. Each of the race-inspired sport seats have red leather trim, with red leather-wrapped steering wheel grips and a red center console with carbon-fiber accents.

The Renaissance Red 2.0 Supra Launch Edition features a black leather-trimmed interior, with black sport seats, a black steering wheel and black center console with carbon-fiber accents.

The Launch Edition Supras include an individually numbered carbon fiber badge on the passenger-side dashboard, complete with a graphic of Toyota Motor Corp. president and Master Driver Akio Toyoda’s signature.

3.0 & 3.0 PREMIUM

Following the Launch Edition models, Supra will be available in 3.0 or 3.0 Premium versions. The two grades include the same 335-hp, 3.0-liter engine with 365 foot-pounds of torque.

An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters launches the Supra from 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds.

The 3.0 grade has a 6.5-inch display with Bluetooth and iPod capability, as well as Alcantara seats. Navigation and JBL Audio will be available options.

The 3.0 Premium grade features an upgraded 8.8-inch, wide-format touchscreen display with navigation, Supra Connect telematics services and wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility. It also includes a premium 12-speaker JBL audio system, Qi-wireless phone charging, a color heads-up display and heated, leather-trimmed seats.

Both grades are equipped with keyless smart entry, dual automatic climate controls, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, rear camera, rain-sensing windshield wipers, garage door opener, power folding mirrors and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Standard safety features on both grades, as well as the Launch Edition, include pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist and automatic high beams.

The Driver Assist Package brings additional features that will be optional on both grades. It includes full-speed dynamic radar cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert and parking sensors.

Supra’s paint palette will include Renaissance Red 2.0, Nitro Yellow, Downshift Blue, Absolute Zero White, Tungsten Silver, Turbulence Gray, Nocturnal Black and Phantom Matte Gray.

The Supra’s return is being heralded via a multimedia advertising effort.

“The return of the Toyota Supra has been a long time coming, and it’s well worth the wait,” said Ed Laukes, group vice president, Toyota Marketing, Toyota Motor North America. “The new campaign highlights the thrill of getting to know the 2020 GR Supra and a rediscovered appreciation for the simple joy of driving.”

By Jef White

Jef White is the executive editor of THE SHOP magazine.