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Does Toyota Supra have automatic transmission?

Yes. The Toyota GR Supra is equipped with an automatic transmission in most configurations, specifically an 8-speed automatic. A 6-speed manual was offered on some versions of the 2.0-liter turbo model in certain markets and model years, but the automatic is the standard and most common setup.


The following article explains how the Supra’s transmission options are structured across engines, trims, and regions, and what buyers should expect when shopping for a Supra today.


Current transmission options by engine


The list below summarizes official transmission choices associated with the Supra’s two main engines and notes regional variations.



  • 8-speed automatic transmission: A ZF 8HP-based unit paired with both the 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 and the 3.0-liter inline-6, and is the standard option on most markets and trims.

  • 6-speed manual transmission: A manual option was introduced for the 2.0-liter turbo variant in select markets and model years, primarily to appeal to driving enthusiasts; not generally offered with the 3.0-liter model.


In practice, most buyers will encounter the 8-speed automatic as the default configuration, with the manual option limited to certain regions and model years.


Market-specific notes


Regional availability can vary. In North America and much of Europe, the 8-speed automatic remains the standard transmission across Supra trims, while the 6-speed manual is available only on certain 2.0-liter turbo configurations in specific markets and model years. Always verify current options with a local Toyota dealer or official regional brochure for your exact model year.


Why the transmission choice matters


Automatic transmission provides effortless daily usability and consistent performance, while a manual offers direct engagement and a traditional sports-car feel. Toyota’s addition of a manual option to the 2.0-liter Supra reflected a desire to broaden appeal among enthusiasts, though the automatic remains the prevalent choice for most buyers.


Summary


The Toyota Supra predominantly uses an 8-speed automatic transmission across its engine options, making it the standard configuration in most markets. A 6-speed manual option exists for the 2.0-liter turbo variant in certain regions and model years, but is not universally available. For prospective buyers, the quickest way to confirm current transmission choices is to check the latest official Toyota specifications for your country and model year.

Are Toyota Supras only manual?


No, not all Supras are manual; modern versions are available with both manual and automatic transmissions, while older models offered a choice between automatic and manual as well. For example, the current GR Supra is offered with an 8-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, while the 2020 model was only available as an automatic.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Toyota GR Supra's manual transmission: 39sBrian MakseYouTube · Oct 21, 2023

  • Modern Supras: The current generation of the GR Supra can be equipped with either an 8-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission. This manual transmission option was introduced in 2023. 
  • Earlier Models: Even some older generations, like the 1993-1998 Supra, offered the choice of a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. 
  • Specifics: The manual transmission is typically available with the larger, more powerful engine, while some models with the smaller engine are automatic only. 

This video discusses the 2023 GR Supra's manual transmission: 53sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Aug 23, 2023



What transmission does the Supra have?


The current generation of the Toyota Supra (GR Supra) is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is available on 3.0 and 3.0 Premium models, while the 8-speed automatic is offered on all trim levels, including the 2.0L model.
 

Transmission Type Details
6-speed manual Available on 3.0/3.0 Premium models, it is a custom-tuned BMW-sourced transmission with a shorter final drive for better acceleration and rev-matching software.
8-speed automatic Available on all models, it is a ZF 8HP automatic transmission that was recalibrated by Toyota for smoother, quicker shifts and is used in the GR Supra GT4 race car.
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Both transmissions send power to the rear wheels, providing the Supra with its signature performance characteristics.



Why was the Supra banned?


The Toyota Supra wasn't banned, but import and sales issues affected certain models, particularly the 1994 Supra, due to non-compliance with US safety and emissions standards, especially for right-hand drive versions. The car's failure to meet crash safety regulations, which included a lack of airbags and other safety features required in the US, led to some vehicles being seized and destroyed by customs. While some sources claim a specific NHTSA blacklist, this is disputed, and the difficulty in importing many classic Japanese market Supras is due to their failure to meet US safety and import regulations when they were new, though they can now be legally imported under the 25-year rule.
 
Key reasons for import issues

  • Safety and emissions non-compliance: Many older Japanese-market Supras did not meet US federal safety and emissions regulations that were in place at the time of their manufacture.
  • Right-hand drive (RHD): Right-hand drive models were not originally designed to meet US standards, which have different requirements for driver visibility and safety features like airbags.
  • Customs seizures: US customs officials would sometimes seize and destroy RHD Supras that were attempting to be imported because they failed to meet US safety standards.
  • Disputed "blacklist": Some online sources suggest the 1994 Supra is on a "NHTSA blacklist" due to long-term reliability issues, but this is a disputed claim, and many importers have brought these cars into the US legally after they become eligible for import under the 25-year rule. 



Is Supra Mk4 manual or automatic?


The Supra MK4 was available in both manual and automatic transmission options. The base model came with a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual, while the higher-performance turbo models were paired with a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.
 
Transmission options by trim

  • Base Model (220220220 hp): Available with a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. 
  • Turbo Model (280−330280 minus 330280−330 hp): Came with a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. 

Transmission details
  • Manual: The 6-speed manual transmission was developed in partnership with Getrag and is highly sought after by enthusiasts. 
  • Automatic: The 4-speed automatic was also available, and some drivers note its surprisingly good performance, especially the ability to manually select gears in certain modes. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.