01 / The idea
A Supra with a different family tree
The A90 Supra has a long bonnet, two seats and a shape that is difficult to overlook in a car park. It also has a BMW connection that has followed it through almost every conversation since launch.
The shared basis with the Z4 and the BMW sourced engine are real. So are the familiar cabin components. Goodwood’s review lays out those connections clearly. Whether they bother you is a matter of what you want the badge to mean.
For us, the useful question is simpler: does this particular coupe offer an experience worth making room for? Its straight six engine and the arrival of a manual gearbox make that a much more interesting discussion than counting shared switches.
02 / Engine & gearbox
The case for three pedals
The UK 3.0 litre engine discussed here produces 335bhp, equivalent to 340PS, and 500Nm. Toyota introduced the six speed manual in 2022 alongside the existing eight speed automatic. It was engineered for this application, with its own clutch and control software.
Toyota quotes 4.6 seconds to 62mph for the manual and 4.3 for the automatic. Those numbers make the choice clear enough: the manual is about participation, not winning the acceleration comparison. Its automatic rev matching can be switched off in Sport mode.
Reviews differ on how well that promise lands. Evo welcomed the manual’s involvement. Goodwood found the change less satisfying, while What Car preferred the extra interaction despite finding other Toyota manuals sweeter. Try both transmissions if you can. There is no shame in preferring the automatic.
03 / On the road
More than an engine to talk about
What Car praises the engine’s flexibility and the automatic’s responsiveness. Its account also highlights the electronically controlled limited slip differential and adaptive dampers on the 3.0, while noting that crests and damp surfaces deserve respect.
Evo’s manual review makes a stronger case for the car as something to enjoy on a good road, with crisp responses and a more involved driving process. Goodwood is cooler on the steering and engine sound. That spread of opinion suggests a car worth judging in person rather than buying on reputation alone.
Our preference would be to start with the manual. If the shift feels right to you, it gives an ordinary journey more to do. If it does not, the automatic retains the engine that makes the 3.0 so appealing.
04 / Living with it
A weekend away is part of the appeal
Goodwood found the cabin comfortable, a useful contrast with the more uncompromising end of the sports car market. The BMW familiarity may disappoint someone expecting a completely bespoke interior, but familiarity is not much of a problem when the controls work.
Toyota lists a 290 litre boot and only two seats. Pack for two people rather than expecting occasional rear seats to rescue a trip. Check your own seating position, visibility and luggage before treating the Supra as a practical daily car.
When viewing a used example, establish which engine, transmission and market specification it actually has. Check the history and ask directly about modifications. This review concerns the regular UK 3.0; numbers quoted for other markets and special editions should not be mixed into the same comparison.
