The Toyota Supra has always been synonymous with Japanese engineering excellence and thrilling performance. Its name commands respect in the world of sports cars, and with the launch of the Toyota Supra MK5 (A90), Toyota reignited that legacy for a new generation of enthusiasts. Unveiled in 2019, the MK5 blends heritage with cutting-edge technology, offering a car that celebrates the past while embracing the future.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the design, performance, and unique features that make the Toyota Supra MK5 an icon in its own right.
A Collaboration with BMW: A Bold Move or Controversy?
The MK5 Supra was born out of a collaboration between Toyota and BMW, a partnership that sparked some debate among purists. Sharing its platform with the BMW Z4, the MK5 Supra utilizes a BMW-sourced inline-six engine and many components, including the chassis and interior technology. Some enthusiasts were concerned that this partnership would dilute the “Toyota-ness” of the Supra, but the final product has proven that the marriage of German engineering and Japanese tuning can produce exceptional results.
Toyota tuned and refined the car’s handling, design, and overall driving dynamics to align with the Supra legacy. This collaboration allowed Toyota to bring the Supra to market more quickly and with a proven powertrain, making it a high-performance machine right out of the gate.
Design: A Perfect Blend of Heritage and Modernity
The MK5 Supra’s design is instantly recognizable yet modern. Drawing inspiration from the legendary MK4 Supra (A80), it features bold curves, aggressive lines, and a wide stance that give it an imposing road presence. The long hood, short rear deck, and double-bubble roof recall the iconic proportions of its predecessor, while also enhancing aerodynamics.
One of the standout design features is the car’s ducktail spoiler, a nod to the MK4, which helps create downforce without overwhelming the sleek look. The LED headlights and taillights, sculpted bodywork, and large air intakes emphasize the Supra’s performance-focused character.
Inside, the driver-centric cockpit feels sporty and luxurious. Although many components come from BMW, Toyota has made sure that the driving experience remains distinct, with a high-tech, functional design that puts the driver at the center of the action.
Performance: Power Meets Precision
At the heart of the MK5 Supra is a 3.0-liter, turbocharged inline-six engine sourced from BMW. This engine delivers 382 horsepower (for the 2021 model year and beyond) and 368 lb-ft of torque, providing a 0-60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission, offering quick shifts and a responsive driving experience.
While some enthusiasts lament the absence of a manual transmission (an option that was later introduced in 2023), the automatic’s precision and speed make it a fantastic choice for both daily driving and track use.
The Supra’s true brilliance, however, lies in its handling. With a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, adaptive suspension, and a low center of gravity, the MK5 is incredibly agile. It feels planted and responsive in corners, offering precise steering and a sense of confidence that makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads or racetracks.
The 2.0-Liter Option: Accessible Performance
In addition to the 3.0-liter model, Toyota also introduced a more affordable 2.0-liter version of the Supra, featuring a turbocharged inline-four engine. This variant produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.0 seconds. While it doesn’t offer the same raw power as the 3.0-liter, it still provides a thrilling driving experience at a lower price point, making the Supra accessible to a wider audience.
Technology and Features: Merging Performance with Comfort
The Toyota Supra MK5 comes packed with modern technology and safety features. It offers a digital instrument cluster, an 8.8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
For those looking for a more immersive driving experience, the available performance package includes upgraded brakes, an active rear differential, and adaptive suspension, allowing drivers to customize the car’s performance to their liking.
Conclusion: A Worthy Successor to the Supra Legacy
The Toyota Supra MK5 stands as a testament to Toyota’s ability to honor its heritage while embracing the future of automotive performance. With its stunning design, exhilarating performance, and a blend of cutting-edge technology, the MK5 has earned its place among modern sports cars.
While the BMW partnership initially raised eyebrows, the end result is a car that delivers on the Supra promise — a balanced, powerful, and driver-focused machine that can hold its own in today’s competitive sports car market. Whether you’re a die-hard Supra fan or new to the name, the MK5 offers an exhilarating driving experience that lives up to the iconic badge.
In short, the Supra MK5 is a modern masterpiece, proving that the Supra name is as relevant as ever in the world of high-performance driving.
