The Toyota GR Supra, a sports car that has been making waves in the automotive world since its revival in 2019, is set to ride off into the sunset in 2026. This news comes as a result of reports from reputable sources indicating that both the GR Supra and its platform-mate, the BMW Z4, will cease production in 2026.
1. Production Cancellation
The decision to end production of both models is largely attributed to declining sales figures. The GR Supra, which has been available in the United States since 2020, has seen a significant drop in sales over the past few years. In 2021, Toyota sold 6,830 units of the GR Supra, which decreased to 4,952 units in 2022 and further dropped to 2,652 units in 2023. The first quarter of this year saw an even more dismal performance, with only 484 units sold through March.
Toyota's reluctance to confirm the news has been evident, with an official stating that they are 'evaluating what's next.' This open-ended response suggests that Toyota is considering its options for the future of the GR Supra, potentially exploring the possibility of going it alone on a future model or continuing to collaborate with BMW.
2. Sales Trends
The downward trend in sales is not unique to the GR Supra. The BMW Z4, which shares a platform with the GR Supra, has also been experiencing declining sales. This shared platform has been a significant factor in the production decision, as both cars rely on Magna Steyr for manufacturing in Austria.
The impact of these declining sales figures is evident in the job cuts at Magna Steyr. The company has laid off 500 employees at their Graz facility due to the impending end of production for several models, including the BMW 5-Series, Jaguar E-Pace and I-Pace, and Fisker Ocean.
3. Performance and Features
Despite its impending demise, the GR Supra remains a formidable sports car. Equipped with a powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower, the GR Supra offers a thrilling driving experience. The availability of a manual transmission adds to its appeal, providing drivers with a more engaging and rewarding experience compared to the automatic option.
The GR Supra's interior is functional and well-assembled, featuring an 8.8-inch central display with a lightly reskinned version of BMW's iDrive interface. Navigation and Apple CarPlay capability are available, although Android Auto is not offered. A 12-speaker JBL audio system is optional, but the standard 10-speaker audio system is sufficient for most buyers given the size of the GR Supra's interior.
3.1. Engine and Transmission
The GR Supra's engine is its standout feature. The turbocharged inline-six cylinder delivers 382 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 368 lb-ft of torque at 1,800 rpm. This powerful engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering drivers a choice that suits their driving style.
While the automatic transmission may be quicker, the manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience. The rear-wheel-drive-only chassis ensures that the GR Supra handles with precision and agility, making it a joy to drive on both the track and the road.
3.2. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Toyota offers a host of safety features in the GR Supra, including a limited warranty that covers three years or 36,000 miles. The powertrain warranty extends to five years or 60,000 miles. Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles.
However, Toyota has opted not to include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist in the standard package. These features are available as part of the Driver Assist package but are not deemed essential by many enthusiasts who prefer a more raw driving experience.
4. Future Prospects
While the GR Supra's production will end in 2026, Toyota is likely to continue its legacy in the sports car market. The company has already hinted at exploring new possibilities for the Supra nameplate, potentially introducing an electric or hybrid variant in the future.
The GR Supra's impact on the automotive world cannot be overstated. Its revival marked a significant return to form for Toyota's sports car lineup, offering enthusiasts a thrilling driving experience that rivals its German counterparts.
As the GR Supra prepares to leave the market, fans and enthusiasts alike will remember its legacy as a true performance icon. Whether Toyota chooses to continue the Supra name or introduce a new variant remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the GR Supra has left an indelible mark on the world of sports cars.
