7 Key Insights into Driving the 2024 Toyota Supra: What You Need to Know

What Driving the 2024 Toyota GR Supra Feels Like

Spending a week behind the wheel of the 2024 Toyota GR Supra was an exhilarating experience. From the winding roads of South Carolina to the scenic heights of Asheville, North Carolina, this car delivers a thrilling ride. While its performance is impressive, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Unleashing the Power of the Supra

The 2024 Toyota GR Supra offers an exhilarating driving experience with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, generating 381 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth acceleration, although a six-speed manual is also available for those who prefer a hands-on approach. The ride quality varies with road conditions; it’s smooth on well-maintained surfaces but can be jarring on rough roads.

Attention and Visibility Issues

Driving the Supra attracts a lot of attention, which can be overwhelming during routine errands. The car’s low stance and bulky pillars make visibility a challenge, particularly when reversing or navigating tight spaces. Despite its sporty appeal, the rearview camera’s low resolution and lack of advanced camera systems can further complicate driving.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality

One pleasant surprise with the Supra is its fuel efficiency, offering an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Even with spirited driving and frequent use of Sport mode, I averaged 27.8 mpg throughout the week. However, its compact design limits storage space and can be uncomfortable for taller drivers, making it less practical for everyday use.

Agility and Aesthetic Appeal

The Supra excels in agility, boasting a 17.05-foot turning radius that makes maneuvering in tight spots a breeze. Its sleek design is not only visually striking but also a source of constant admiration. Despite its small footprint, the Supra’s stylish look and responsive handling make it a car that’s both fun and aesthetically pleasing to own.

The Rise of Manual Transmissions: A Stick Shift Revival in Today’s Car Market

The resurgence of manual transmissions is more than just a trend—it’s a revival of driving passion. In 2023, manual transmissions made up 1.7% of all car sales, a significant jump from less than 1% in 2021. This 70% increase reflects a growing appreciation for the driving experience that only a stick shift can provide, despite its relatively small market share.

The six-speed stick shift lever in a manual 2007 BMW M6 V10.
2007 BMW M6 | Cars & Bids

The renewed interest in manuals is fueled by a combination of enthusiast demand and exciting new offerings from automakers. Notable models like the Toyota Supra and Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing have embraced manual gearboxes, rekindling excitement among driving purists. The Mazda Miata, a longstanding symbol of driving enjoyment, continues to be a top choice for manual enthusiasts, with 60% of buyers opting for the traditional gearshift, highlighting the car’s enduring appeal even as it approaches its 35th anniversary.

Toyota GR Supra 3.0 vs. C7 Corvette Stingray: Which Is the Faster Sports Car?

Performance Overview

The Toyota GR Supra 3.0, a product of Toyota and BMW’s collaboration, delivers impressive speed and agility. With a 0 to 60 mph time of under 4.0 seconds, it competes fiercely against recent sports car models, including the Nissan Z and Ford Mustang Mach 1. Despite its prowess, the Supra must also contend with older sports cars, such as the now-discontinued C7 Corvette Stingray.

Acceleration and Speed Comparison

When comparing the Toyota GR Supra 3.0 to the C7 Corvette Stingray, both cars boast similar acceleration capabilities, reaching 60 mph in about 3.7 seconds. However, the C7 Corvette edges ahead in quarter-mile performance, completing the run in 11.8 seconds versus the Supra’s 12.3 seconds. Additionally, while the Corvette’s top speed of 181 mph surpasses the Supra’s governed limit of 160 mph, both vehicles offer exhilarating driving experiences.

Power and Performance Metrics

The 2023 Toyota GR Supra 3.0 is powered by a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the C7 Corvette Stingray’s 6.2L V8 engine generates a robust 455 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This significant horsepower advantage helps the Corvette maintain a lead in straight-line speed, although the Supra remains a formidable competitor in the sports car arena.

Competitors and Comparisons

While the GR Supra 3.0 can outperform certain rivals like the Nissan Z Performance, it faces tough competition from newer models like the mid-engine C8 Corvette and the BMW M240i xDrive. These competitors offer superior speed and handling, highlighting the ongoing evolution in sports car performance. The Supra, with its blend of power and precision, continues to be a strong contender among sports cars, but it must continuously innovate to stay ahead.