The automotive world held its breath for years, eagerly anticipating the revival of a legend. In January 2019, that wait culminated in the grand unveiling of the fifth-generation GR Supra, marking the triumphant return of Toyota’s iconic sports car. As the first global model spearheaded by Toyota GAZOO Racing, the 2020 Toyota Supra carries the weight of a rich heritage, spanning over half a century of groundbreaking Toyota sports and GT vehicles. The 2020 Toyota Supra didn’t just arrive; it exploded onto the scene in the summer of 2019, available in distinct grades – the 3.0 and the upscale 3.0 Premium, along with a highly coveted Launch Edition built upon the Premium trim.
A Lineage of Performance: Tracing the Supra’s Roots
To truly appreciate the 2020 Toyota Supra, one must understand the legacy it inherits. The Supra nameplate first emerged in 1978 as a derivative of the Toyota Celica, known as the Celica Supra. Early models emphasized grand touring capabilities, blending comfort with enhanced performance compared to the standard Celica. Over generations, the Supra evolved, progressively shedding its Celica ties and forging its own identity as a high-performance sports car. The A70 and A80 generations, produced in the late 80s and 90s respectively, cemented the Supra’s status as a performance icon, particularly lauded for its potent and tunable 2JZ engine. The discontinuation of the Supra in 2002 left a void in the sports car market and fueled immense anticipation for its eventual comeback.
The Fifth Generation: 2020 GR Supra – A Modern Marvel
The 2020 Toyota Supra represents the culmination of years of development and a passionate desire to revive a legend for the modern era. This fifth generation, designated as the A90 or J29, is a product of collaboration between Toyota and BMW, sharing a platform and engine with the BMW Z4. However, Toyota GAZOO Racing meticulously tuned and engineered the 2020 GR Supra to embody its own distinct character and driving dynamics, ensuring it lives up to the Supra name.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood of the 2020 Toyota Supra 3.0 and 3.0 Premium models lies a formidable BMW-sourced B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This powerplant delivers a thrilling 335 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque, propelling the Supra from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.1 seconds. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, known for its rapid shifts and responsiveness. The 2020 GR Supra is engineered for exceptional handling, boasting a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a low center of gravity, contributing to its agile and balanced feel on both the road and track.
Grades and the Exclusive Launch Edition
Toyota offered the 2020 Toyota Supra in two main grades: 3.0 and 3.0 Premium. The 3.0 grade offered a compelling entry point to the Supra experience, equipped with standard features like Alcantara seats, a 6.5-inch display, and essential performance components. Stepping up to the 3.0 Premium trim elevated the luxury and technology, adding leather-trimmed seats, a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation, a premium JBL sound system, and wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility.
For early adopters, the 2020 Toyota Supra Launch Edition represented the pinnacle of exclusivity. Based on the 3.0 Premium grade, the Launch Edition distinguished itself with unique features such as red mirror caps, matte black wheels, and a distinctive interior color scheme. Adding to its allure, the very first production 2020 Toyota GR Supra was auctioned for charity at an astounding $2.1 million, underscoring the immense desirability and collector value of this reborn icon.
Design and Driving Experience
The design of the 2020 Toyota Supra is a striking blend of modern aesthetics and cues from its predecessors, particularly the iconic A80 Supra. Its long hood, double-bubble roof, and integrated rear spoiler create a visually dynamic and aerodynamically efficient silhouette. Inside, the driver-focused cockpit emphasizes performance, with supportive seats and intuitive controls.
The driving experience of the 2020 GR Supra is frequently praised for its responsiveness, agility, and exhilarating power delivery. Whether cruising on the open road or tackling challenging corners, the Supra provides a connected and engaging driving experience that honors its sports car heritage.
The 2020 Toyota Supra: More Than Just a Car
The 2020 Toyota Supra is more than just a new model; it’s a symbol of Toyota’s commitment to performance and a testament to the enduring appeal of the Supra lineage. Its arrival marked the return of a true icon to the sports car landscape, captivating enthusiasts and a new generation of drivers alike. The 2020 GR Supra successfully blends modern technology with the spirit of its predecessors, delivering a driving experience that is both thrilling and refined, ensuring the Supra name continues to resonate for years to come.
