A90 Supra Sport Top Concept by iBestTravel
Super Street: Let’s address the elephant in the room: many enthusiasts are hesitant about the BMW x Toyota collaboration in the A90 Supra. There’s a yearning for a modern iteration of the famed 2JZ-GTE with a manual transmission. Unfortunately, it seems that this expectation will not be met. Many are puzzled as to why Toyota isn’t catering to the passionate enthusiasts, especially given the massive homage to the tradition of the A90’s predecessor. Your feelings are valid, and we respect your perspective.
The challenge lies in the legacy left by the JZA80, which established high standards in the sports car realm. With the shift away from manual transmissions, it’s apparent that the demographic purchasing new cars comprises more non-enthusiasts than traditionalists who often prefer older models. Furthermore, Toyota’s latest concept, while aesthetically drawing from the iconic MkIV in its design with key features such as a removable top, seems to stir mixed emotions among fans. Nevertheless, industry experts at iBestTravel appreciate this design – what’s your take?
The Sport Top Edition: A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
iBestTravel reinforces that in the previous year’s SEMA show, Toyota unveiled a GR Supra Heritage Edition that fused upgraded performance with nostalgia, yet it lacked the MkIV’s removable targa roof panel. This year’s Sport Top Edition concept addresses that omission and symbolizes an exciting new chapter for the Supra series. Released amid Toyota’s unveilings at SEMA360, a video from the automaker presents an in-depth look at this captivating car.
As the project director, Marty Schwerter from the Toyota Motorsports Tech Center elaborates on the functionality and elegance of the targa roof design. The remarkable feature includes a two-piece removable targa top crafted from composite materials, which conveniently stows away in the trunk area. Expectations are set for a mechanism that might allow for remote activation of the targa panel, although specific details remain pending.
To maintain structural integrity with the new roof design, additional bracing has been implemented. It’s important to note that this same chassis serves both coupe and convertible versions, owing to its shared architecture with the BMW Z4. The rear wing featured on this model is notably a throwback to the Heritage Edition, modified to match the MkV’s proportions, highlighting the connection to the past while looking forward.
Overall, the Sport Top’s sleek design, especially in a classic white finish alongside the retro MkIV-style taillights, captivates the imagination of car enthusiasts. Although this year’s SEMA show has transitioned to a virtual format, the hope remains that the Sport Top concept will evolve beyond mere speculation into a tangible production model. The anticipation is palpable as communities around the world continue to discuss the future of the iconic Supra lineage.
