The sporty 2021 Toyota GR Supra came back last year after a long hiatus and at a reasonable price, thanks to a little help from BMW.
Both BMW and Toyota joined forces to build sports cars: Toyota built a coupe, and BMW built a convertible.
This Supra has a German turbocharged straight 6-cylinder engine. Although it is not a pure Toyota power plant, the 382hp really motivates this small car with gusto.
The only transmission available is an excellent automatic, but a manual option would be nice. Handling limits are high for 2021, and this Supra is less tail happy than last year’s model.
The looks will catch your eye, especially with the Nitro Yellow paint on this shapely sports car. You will notice quickly that this is a small car. The body seems to have been poured over the car, with extreme curves and body creases. It takes some styling cues from past Supra models, but this 2021 version does have its own modern look.
The inside of the 2021 Supra does not have much Toyota influence. The cockpit, HVAC and audio controls come from BMW. The heated leather bucket seats are good at keeping you planted in the curves, and they’re comfortable enough for shorter trips. Taller drivers will find this a tight fit and might have some trouble getting in and out of this low-slung sports car.
Cost: $54,490; as tested $57,210
MPG: 22mpg city and 30mpg highway; I managed 23.6 mpg in 208 miles of mixed driving.
Safety:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Dynamic radar cruise control;
- Lane departure alert with steering assist;
- Automatic high beams;
- Blind spot monitor;
- Rear cross traffic alert;
- Parking sensors with emergency braking function.
Options:
- $1,195 driver assist package;
- $425 special color;
- $80 carpet cargo mat;
- $65 wheel locks
Things to know: The 2021 GR Supra comes with more firepower and refinement in its second year. There is even a less costly four-cylinder version available for this year.
Pros:
- This is a sports car with high handling limits that would best be explored on a track;
- A big power bump for 2021 yields an extra 50hp;
- You get a lot of sports car for a fair price.
Cons:
- Not easy for larger drivers to fit inside;
- The small car comes with little storage space in the cabin;
- Past Supra owners and fans could be turned off by the BMW/Toyota partnership.
