2021 Toyota GR Supra: Performance Upgrades and Special Editions
NASCAR and Toyota fans, start your engines! The 2021 Toyota Supra introduces an exciting new four-cylinder engine tailored for U.S. drivers, alongside a powerful upgrade for the well-loved turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six. These updates, announced prior to the Daytona 500, are designed to keep automotive enthusiasts engaged with the Supra, which only debuted in 2020.
Performance Enhancements for the 3.0 Model
While we have highlighted the four-cylinder GR Supra separately, let’s focus on the thrilling features of the six-cylinder GR Supra 3.0 model. The turbocharged inline-six, sourced from BMW, experiences a notable performance boost in 2021. Power output increases from 335 horsepower at 5,000-6,500 rpm to an impressive 382 horsepower at 5,800-6,500 rpm. Torque improves slightly as well, with figures rising from 365 lb-ft at 1,600-4,500 rpm to 368 lb-ft at 1,800-5,000 rpm. The report confirms that the eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters remains unchanged for 2021.
Acceleration Improvements
Toyota estimates that with these enhancements, the 2021 Supra 3.0’s zero-to-60-mph time reduces from an already commendable 4.1 seconds to just 3.9 seconds. Given that our previous tests recorded a 3.9-second run, we can anticipate even quicker real-world performance. Engineers achieved this extra power through a new dual-branch exhaust manifold featuring six ports, enhancing heat management. Moreover, a redesigned piston lowers the compression ratio from 11:1 to 10.2:1, facilitating higher torque and allowing for greater RPMs.
Weight Reduction and Chassis Enhancements
The 2021 Supra lineup benefits from weight reduction; the four-cylinder variant is notably lighter than its 3.0 sibling thanks to the smaller engine and less equipment. Additionally, slight chassis tweaks for the 3.0 model enhance performance. Lightweight aluminum braces improve lateral rigidity while the tuning of the electric power steering and adaptive variable suspension has been refined.
Special Editions and Future Variants
The 2021 Supra lineup also features new special-edition models, one being the A91 Edition, limited to 1,000 units. It offers two distinctive paint options—Nocturnal or Refraction—and comes equipped with matte-black wheels, exclusive graphics, and carbon-fiber exterior enhancements. Furthermore, for those interested in track performance, the GR Supra GT4 is set to hit U.S. streets this August. With a staggering 430 horsepower and a seven-speed automatic transmission, this version utilizes a modified six-cylinder engine, mechanical limited-slip rear differential, and an Akrapovič exhaust. Importantly, this track-focused variant is designed solely for racing and is not street legal.
Conclusion
The regular 2021 Supra 3.0 models will arrive in showrooms in June, showcasing impressive performance upgrades and a range of special editions that appeal to both sports car aficionados and casual enthusiasts alike.
