Toyota to build new Supra without BMW partnership
- Toyota has decided to discontinue its partnership with BMW for the GR Supra model.
- The upcoming 6th generation Supra is expected in late 2027 with a Toyota-built turbo 2.0-liter hybrid engine.
- This strategic move reflects Toyota's goal to strengthen its automotive innovation and independence.
In Japan, Toyota has made a significant decision to move away from its collaboration with BMW regarding the production of the GR Supra. After a partnership that began in 2019 and included the launch of a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine for the Supra and BMW Z4, Toyota's Gazoo Racing division has opted to develop the next-generation Supra independently. This decision comes as the current A90 GR Supra gears up to cease production by late 2025, with expectations of a new model entering the market in late 2027. The new Supra is set to employ a Toyota-built turbocharged 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain that is projected to generate approximately 400 horsepower. This shift indicates Toyota’s commitment to creating vehicles that prioritize in-house engineering and innovation. Additionally, as the current Supra gained popularity in the U.S. with over 24,000 units sold since its American launch, the market response shows a significant interest in the sports car segment, particularly in contrast to the BMW Z4's only 13,000 units sold during the same period. Interestingly, reports suggest that while testing the new vehicle, Toyota is experimenting with a second prototype featuring a Mazda inline 6-cylinder engine, but the focus remains primarily on the lighter hybrid engine, which is expected to offer increased fuel efficiency and agility. This strategic move is likely to enhance Toyota's brand identity and performance capabilities in the high-performance automotive market.