The first Toyota Supra appeared on the market in 1978. It continued to be one of the leading models in the lineup until it was discontinued 2002. However, Toyota recently released a teaser showing the upcoming 2019 model of this old favorite.
First Look
Toyota gave a glimpse of the 2019 Supra at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, although the manufacturer was quick to point out that this version is just a prototype. In the teaser video, the back end of the vehicle is visible, showcasing an oversized spoiler on the trunk lid and a low-slung body style. This design creates a 50-50 front-to-rear weight distribution, providing a low center of gravity. Toyota also confirmed that the Supra will have rear-wheel drive for improved handling, just like the models before it.
Re-Entry Into the Sports Car Genre
Toyota hasn’t offered much by way of sports cars in the recent past, with the exception of the 86 that came back into the lineup in 2012. However, the Supra is sure to change that. This model boasts plenty of features that make the vehicle ideal for racing.
The manufacturer has long hinted about its partnership with BMW. Toyota confirmed the rumors at the Geneva Motor Show this year, showing off the GR Supra Racing Concept vehicle. Fans of this model were further tantalized with a view of a camouflaged version of the Supra prototype at Goodwood.
Power and Performance
Details of the 2019 Supra aren’t confirmed, but Toyota has released a few aspects that are certain. This vehicle will have an inline-six and a rear-wheel-drive platform that has been developed through the partnership with BMW. According to documents from a transmission supplier, the inline-six engine will produce up to 335 horsepower. For reference, you’ll find some similarities between this unit and the one found in the BMW M240i.
In addition to the inline-six, Toyota plans to offer a four-cylinder engine option. This unit will likely be the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder produced by BMW. This engine is lightweight and provides excellent weight distribution, making it a top option for the sporty Supra. Both engines will pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard, but Toyota hasn’t released any information about whether a manual option will be available.
Manufacturing and Testing
Sharp-eyed viewers have seen the Supra in several key locations. Video footage has been posted online showing the sports car doing a few laps at the Nürburgring in Germany, a world-famous spot where only high-performance cars are tested. The fact that they are testing the new Supra at this location proves Toyota’s commitment to creating a vehicle meant for drivers who care about performance.
As for the nuts and bolts, Austrian contractor Magna Steyr will reportedly handle the manufacturing process. This company is best known for its production of the Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen.
When the 2019 Supra arrives at Weiss Toyota Scion of South County, make sure to take this exciting vehicle for a test drive. With a variety of sporty performance features, it’s sure to impress drivers when it becomes available.
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