Posted by motor1.com via the supramkv.com forum, the reported production twin of the BMW Z4 is seen in the back of a transporter minus any forms of disguise, with styling not only reminiscent of the thinly camouflaged prototypes and pre-production mules seen until now, but also the FT-1 concept shown at the same event four years ago.
Finished in silver, the supposed production Supra, known internally as the A90, appears little toned down from the concept, with Toyota having made only slight alterations to the pointy nose and bonnet, while the headlights still cut into the bonnet despite now being a full-LED arrangement.
Although no rear-end images were taken, prior spy images have depicted a facia not only similar to the FT-1, but also the A80 Supra that ended production 16 years ago, with traits such as the pronounced rear spoiler and thin taillights being incorporated into the design. Based on previous reports, the Supra will measure 4 380mm in overall length, with a wheelbase of 2 470mm, height of 1 290mm, width of 1 855mm and tip the scales at 1 496kg, a reduction of 14kg versus the A80.
Despite having remained largely coy on technical details, Chief Engineer, Tetsuya Tada, let slip in October that the Supra will offer the BMW-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged engine from the Z4 as the base option, with the flagship motor being Munich’s 3.0-litre straight-six turbo that will reportedly produce 221kW and result in a 0-100km/h sprint of around five seconds.
Set to be fitted as standard with an Active Limited Slip Differential and 50/50 distribution, the Supra will feature an eight-speed automatic gearbox as on all models, although a six-speed manual will reportedly be available for right-hand drive markets in spite of a three-pedal layout having been rebuked on a number of occasions by Tada.
“This is not yet finally decided [introduction of a manual transmission], and depending on feedback from the market, we will decide if we should introduce a manual transmission. We have developed (a manual gearbox), yes, there is hardware ready. Right-hand drive? Yes, of course. It needs to be sold in Japan, which is a right-hand drive market,” Assistant Chief Engineer, Masayuki Kai, told Australia’s caradvice.com.au.
Along with the manual ‘box, the Supra will also come a Drift mode and ability to be driven without any electronic aids on when switched to the dedicated Track mode.
While finial details will only be revealed in Detroit, chances are that some will likely emerge before then.
