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Karkrub Review

The 2020 Toyota Supra 3.0 GR Coupe represents a significant milestone in the history of Toyota’s high-performance vehicles. This fifth-generation Supra, dubbed the “GR” (for Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s motorsport division), marked the return of a legend, two decades after the last Supra model (the A80) ceased production in 2002.

In terms of specifications, the 2020 Supra GR comes powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, shared with BMW, which churns out a formidable 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, sending power exclusively to the rear wheels. As for performance, the Supra GR accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, onto an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. It’s underpinned by a sporty chassis with double-joint spring struts at the front and a five-arm rear suspension, aiming to deliver an engaging and dynamic driving experience.

The 2020 Supra’s development story represents a landmark collaboration between Toyota and BMW. To resurrect the Supra, Toyota partnered with BMW and shared development costs, which resulted in a sibling for the Supra – the BMW Z4. While they share several components, the Supra and Z4 were tuned separately to maintain distinct identities.

Upon its release, journalists showered the 2020 Supra GR with both praise and criticism. Positive comments were made about the car’s punchy performance, precise handling, and its blend of comfort and sportiness. Critics, however, lamented the lack of a manual transmission and the influence of BMW was divisive, with some feeling that it diluted the Supra’s unique Japanese character.

Owners and enthusiasts of the 2020 Supra GR have explored numerous modifications to personalize and enhance their vehicles. Powertrain modifications are popular, including ECU remapping and turbo upgrades to increase horsepower. Suspension tweaks, such as installing coilovers or strut braces, can further hone the handling characteristics. Aesthetic modifications, including aftermarket wheels, body kits, and custom paint jobs or vinyl wraps, are also common, allowing owners to make a bold visual statement.

In conclusion, the 2020 Toyota Supra 3.0 GR Coupe is a potent sports car that rekindles the spirit of its revered forebears. Despite some minor criticisms and controversy surrounding its BMW-shared underpinnings, the Supra GR proved to be a highly capable and enjoyable machine. As evidenced by the lively aftermarket scene, it continues to inspire passion among car enthusiasts around the globe.

Karkrub Story

Wat was a lively teenager from a tranquil town in southern Thailand. From an early age, he was spellbound by the charming ballet of cars gliding on the roads. The Toyota Supra had caught his fancy when he saw it on the cover of a glossy car magazine. It was the elegant curves of the car, the aggressive grill, the glossy paint, and the promise of power hidden under the hood that bewitched him. It wasn’t just an automobile for him; it was a symbol of freedom, power, and exhilarating adventures.

Years went by, and Wat found himself behind the wheel of a pre-loved Supra. He was thrilled beyond words. The roar of the engine was music to his ears; the power under the hood was palpable. He enjoyed the intricate craftsmanship, the aerodynamics, and the avant-garde technology that made his driving experience so enjoyable. He cherished how the Supra merged with the road, like a falcon swooping gracefully over a serene lake.

One sunny day, Wat, now a university student, decided to take his beloved Supra on a road trip. With a group of friends, he drove through the lush Thai countryside, crossed over winding mountain roads, zoomed past verdant rice fields, and arrived at a hidden beach in Phuket. It was pure, unadulterated joy, watching the sunset over the Andaman sea, the Supra gleaming nearby, like a faithful steed. That was a memory Wat treasured, a testament to the freedom and joy his beloved Supra brought him.

Years passed, and Wat’s family grew. His son, little Thanwa, shared his father’s affection for the Supra. Thanwa would always insist on riding the “big, shiny car,” as he called it. Wat loved driving his son to school in the Supra. Thanwa would chatter excitedly about the car to his classmates, mirroring Wat’s teenage passion. Even on the days when he felt overwhelmed by responsibilities, the radiant smile on Thanwa’s face as he revved up the Supra was enough to rejuvenate him.

Life, as it often does, swept Wat up in its relentless current. His carefree days were gradually replaced by the obligations of adulthood. He had a career, a family, and many responsibilities. Yet, his love for his Supra never diminished. Despite the pressures of life, he always found time to care for his car, often washing and maintaining it himself. It became a kind of therapy for him, an escape from the fast pace of life.

His wife often joked, “If it weren’t for the Supra, I wouldn’t recognize you, dear!” This gentle tease held a grain of truth, for the Supra was an integral part of his life. It shaped his youth, brought joy to his son, and provided him a nostalgic escape in his adult life. The Supra had transformed from a teenage dream to a symbol of his journey. Wat, the Thai teenager from the south, had grown, but his love for the Supra stayed the same, reminding him of his youth, joy, and dreams every time he turned the ignition.

Karkrub Score

Design: 9.0/10. The 2020 Toyota Supra GR is a feast for the eyes. Its sleek body, aerodynamic curves, and aggressive front grill give it an assertive stance. Inside, it’s a fine blend of sport and luxury, with a focus on the driver’s comfort and a touch of futuristic tech. It represents a fantastic blend of Toyota’s racing history with a modern and progressive design ethos.

Power: 8.5/10. With a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine under the hood, the Supra GR boasts 335 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over 4 seconds. The power delivery is smooth, but it lacks the raw punch of some competitors.

Fun: 8.8/10. The Supra GR is an absolute thrill to drive, whether it’s on the open road or a winding mountain path. The rear-wheel drive and the sport-tuned suspension make for a responsive and engaging ride. The agile handling paired with its potent engine adds a sense of exhilaration.

Comfort: 8.0/10. The Supra GR is surprisingly comfortable for a sports car. It features a driver-centric cockpit, plush leather seats, and a suspension that absorbs most road imperfections. However, cabin noise can be significant at higher speeds, and rear visibility is somewhat compromised.

Reliability: 8.2/10. Toyota is known for its long-lasting vehicles, and the Supra GR is no exception. It’s built on the reliable platform shared with BMW Z4. However, as with any sports car, regular maintenance and careful driving will determine its longevity.

Safety: 8.0/10. The 2020 Supra GR is equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and available blind-spot monitoring. Nonetheless, it hasn’t undergone full crash testing by major safety organizations, hence the score.

Value: 8.5/10. With its potent performance, striking design, and a decent level of luxury, the Supra GR offers solid value for a sports car in its price range. Its running costs are higher than average, but it’s to be expected in this category.

Taking all the scores into account, the 2020 Toyota Supra GR Coupe scores an average of 8.4/10. This places it amongst the top contenders in the sports car category, demonstrating its competence in blending design, power, fun, and value in a single, stunning package.