Is a Supra a V6 or V8?
The Supra is not a V6 or a V8. Its modern engines are inline configurations, with a turbocharged inline-6 for the performance variants and a turbo inline-4 for the entry model. Here is how the engine lineup has evolved and what it means for the car’s identity.
Engine layout through the generations
The Supra’s defining attribute has long been its inline-engine layout. Over the years, the badge has been associated with two main configurations: a potent inline-6 in the top-spec models and an entry-level inline-4 in newer trims. This keeps the Supra squarely in the inline-6 family rather than adopting a V-shaped arrangement.
- Mk4 generations (A80, 1993–1998): 2JZ-GTE 3.0-liter inline-six, twin-turbocharged. This engine helped cement the Supra’s performance reputation and tuning potential.
- Current generation (Mk5, A90/A91, 2019–present): Two inline configurations anchor the lineup: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 (the latter developed with BMW and branded under the B58 family). The inline-6 remains the flagship powertrain for performance variants.
Across its history, the Supra has never employed a V6 or a V8 powerplant; its identity has centered on inline engines tuned for speed and precision.
Current engine options in the GR Supra
As of the latest model years, the GR Supra offers two primary engine choices, both inline configurations. The exact output varies by market and model year, but the engine architecture remains consistently inline rather than V-shaped.
- 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 (B48): roughly 255 horsepower in US-spec cars, with torque in the vicinity of 295 lb-ft. This variant emphasizes lighter weight and entry-level performance.
- 3.0-liter turbo inline-6 (B58): roughly 335–382 horsepower depending on year and market (US-spec versions have leaned toward the higher end with automatic transmissions). It is typically paired with an 8-speed automatic in most markets, with a manual option limited to certain editions or regions.
In short, the modern Supra remains an inline-engine machine, and there is no V6 or V8 in the current lineup, despite the collaboration with BMW that brought the 3.0-liter inline-6 to life.
Notes on performance figures and transmission choices
Horsepower and torque figures vary by market, model year, and whether the car is equipped with an automatic or, in rare cases, a manual transmission. Toyota’s partnership with BMW on the 3.0-liter engine yields modern turbocharging and refinement, while preserving the Supra’s lineage as an inline-powered sports coupe rather than adopting any V- or V8-based design.
Summary
The Supra is not a V6 or a V8. Its modern lineup centers on inline engines: a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 for the base model and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 for the performance variant, with no V6 or V8 configurations offered. This inline-six heritage aligns with the Supra’s performance-focused identity and its collaboration-driven engineering path with BMW.
