Is the Toyota Supra basically a BMW?
The short answer is yes, the latest generation of the Toyota Supra is essentially a BMW in disguise. The 2023 Toyota Supra shares a significant amount of its underlying architecture, powertrain, and technology with the BMW Z4 roadster.
The Toyota Supra's BMW Roots
The 2023 Toyota Supra is the fifth generation of the iconic sports car, but it represents a significant departure from previous models. Unlike earlier Supras that were developed entirely by Toyota, the latest version is the result of a collaboration between Toyota and BMW. The two automakers teamed up to co-develop a new sports car platform that underpins both the Supra and the BMW Z4.
The Supra and Z4 share the same chassis, suspension components, and powertrain. This includes the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, which is sourced directly from BMW. The transmission options are also BMW-derived, with a standard eight-speed automatic or an optional six-speed manual.
Similarities and Differences
While the Supra and Z4 are mechanically very similar, there are some key differences between the two models. Toyota has tuned the suspension and steering to give the Supra a more performance-oriented driving character compared to the Z4. The Supra also features unique exterior styling and an interior design that is distinct from the BMW.
Additionally, the Supra is only available as a coupe, while the Z4 is a convertible roadster. This gives the Supra a more aggressive, sports car-like appearance and driving experience. However, the underlying platform and many of the core components are shared between the two models.
The Bottom Line
In summary, while the 2023 Toyota Supra may wear a Toyota badge, it is very much a collaborative effort between Toyota and BMW. The Supra shares a significant amount of its DNA with the BMW Z4, including its chassis, powertrain, and technology. However, Toyota has put its own unique spin on the sports car, tuning the driving dynamics and styling to create a distinct and engaging driving experience.
What car is the Supra based on?
According to Akio Toyoda, the new Supra's design and performance identity were inspired by the Toyota 2000GT. The interior design, layout, and parts (like the materials, seats, and steering wheel) were also done by Toyota, while only small interior switchgear come from BMW.
What BMW is similar to Supra?
And the Toyota is built alongside the closely related BMW Z4 in Austria. Both the Supra and the 230i use the same BMW turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making outputs of 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque in both cars.
What car did BMW and Toyota make?
Together so it is actually at least half a Toyota. And although it shares the same platform in many underpinnings with the BMW. Z4 the two cars do look outwardly.
What is so special about a Supra?
With its sleek lines, powerful engines, and exceptional handling, the Supra has earned a reputation as one of the most coveted sports cars on the market. Its legendary status and desirability have made it an icon in the automotive world, and its appeal continues to grow with each passing year.
Who builds Toyota engines?
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama employs more than 2,000 team members and builds more than 3,000 engines each day. Producing one-third of Toyota's engines in the U.S. at its 1.3 million-square-foot facility, TMMAL is the only plant to build four-cylinder, V-6 and twin-turbo under one roof.
Why is Toyota discontinuing the Supra?
The notion that Supra is stopping is purely speculative, and quite frankly, I have no expectation, sitting here today, that the Supra brand will disappear. At all.” Toyota recently revealed that the current-generation Supra will compete in the Supercars championship Down Under in 2026, sporting a powerful V8.
Is the Toyota Supra actually a BMW?
You may have heard that the Toyota is actually a BMW in sheep's clothing. It's true that the Supra has a BMW engine and transmission and that the chassis for these cars was co-designed by the two manufacturers. But once the basic structures were figured out, BMW and Toyota went their own separate directions.
Are Toyotas using BMW engines?
The Toyota WW engine family is a series of 16 valve DOHC inline-4 Common rail direct injection turbo diesel diesel engines with common rail injection. These engines are based on the BMW N47, modified for use in Toyota vehicles, starting with the Verso in 2014.
What is the Supra engine called in BMW?
The Supra is powered by two BMW-sourced engine options: a turbocharged B48 2.0-litre inline-four or a turbocharged B58 3.0-litre inline-six. The 2.0-litre engine was initially offered in Japan, some Asian countries and Europe; the United States received the engine in 2020 for the 2021 model year.
Why does a Supra have BMW parts?
By using a BMW engine they saved millions of dollars on research and development. Toyota does not Currently have a rear wheel drive performance platform. To create this would be extremely expensive and the Supra is a low production vehicle.
