A next-generation Toyota Supra with a 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain? Stop Everything.
The Toyota Supra was the Japanese automaker's flagship sports car for more than twenty years. In fact, its cult following remains so strong that the powerful inline-6 2JZ engine is nearly as famous as the car itself. That said, how dare Toyota introduce a new model with a 4-cylinder engine?
According to an article from Motor Trend, the upcoming Toyota Supra successor will receive a turbocharged 2.5-liter I-4 hybrid setup that is expected to produce at least 400 hp. However, the development is not expected to be finished until as late as 2017.
The latest rumors closely follow Toyota and BMW's latest press conference confirming a sports car collaboration between the two companies. According to an insider, the collaboration sports car in question will be a heavily revised version of the Toyota GT86 platform, stretched and reinforced for roomier packaging and more power. The revised platform will not only serve as the next grand touring sports car from Toyota, but will serve as the backbone of the next BMW Z4 as well.
Meanwhile, BMW will be tasked with the suspension settings and the black arts of handling characteristic. In addition, another insider claims that BMW is testing its own V6 hybrid unit that delivers similar power to the Supra as well.
Despite the lack of confirmation of many of the rumors involved in this report, we are confident that none of this is vaporware. Toyota has already invested nearly a decade into designing the Lexus LF-A halo supercar before the company introduced the critically acclaimed Scion FR-S sports car. Based on this trajectory, it's only natural for Toyota to follow through and finally give what enthusiasts have truly been waiting for -- the return of the Supra.
In November, GT86 chief engineer Tetsuya Tada has admitted to Motor Trend that Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda already asked the team of engineers to develop the Supra sports car "as soon as possible
http://www.imotortimes.com/articles/2287/20130211/toyota-supra-rumors-400-hp-turbo-2.htm
