IT’S A PROVEN SALES strategy to make consumers think a desirable product is only available in limited numbers. Now, far be it from us to suggest Toyota may be pulling a marketing swifty here, but all of a sudden, they have announced additional GR Supra stock with a limited number of cars available directly from dealerships.
This follows a highly successful series of online reservations that was designed to ensure a fair allocation of restricted initial stock, with total sales reaching 345 cars to the end of January this year.
In addition, Toyota has announced Supra will receive a power upgrade with suspension changes, towards the end of 2020.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales and Marketing Sean Hanley said the additional volume and the upcoming boost to power and handling will enhance GR Supra’s appeal.
“The current car already has incredible power and torque with 250kW and 500Nm from its highly responsive engine – a great vehicle that has won several motoring awards,” Mr Hanley said.
“Being able to import an additional allocation of cars means enthusiasts can now achieve their GR Supra dream sooner than expected – perhaps even as a Valentine’s Day present to themselves!” he said.
Late this year, the GR Supra will gain a previously unexploited 35kW, lifting maximum power output by 14 percent to 285kW from the 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbo engine.
The updated Supra will have refinements to handling that includes new under-bonnet chassis braces that deliver even greater rigidity.
Mr Hanley said the changes keep faith with Toyota’s promise at the global launch that the reborn Supra would continually evolve in what is a highly competitive segment.
Pricing has not been announced for the updated GR Supra, but there will likely be an increase linked to the updates. Availability is expected to be more limited than for the current car.
Current GR Supra specifications
GR Supra has been designed first and foremost as a driver’s car with no compromise: a straight-six turbo engine, rear-drive configuration, low-slung compact dimensions and 50/50 weight distribution.
The 250kW/500Nm sports car is offered in two grades, priced from $84,900 (plus on road costs) for the Supra GT, with the top-of-the-range GTS variant starting at $94,900 (plus on road costs).
A quick-shifting, sports-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission and a launch control function help produce a 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.3 seconds.
Standard active limited slip differential and adaptive suspension and 18-inch (GT) or 19-inch (GTS) wheels wrapped with specially developed Michelin rubber contribute to outstanding handling and agility.
Driver assistance features include active cruise control, pre-collision warning with autonomous braking and daytime pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane departure alert, speed limit info and active speed limiter.
Additional safety features include seven airbags, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, reversing camera, parking sensors, rear-end collision warning and tyre pressure monitor.
Inside, the GR Supra features dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning, keyless smart entry and start, leather-accented sports seats with eight-way electric adjustment and lumbar support, a 10-speaker multimedia system with Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM/DAB+ radio, satellite navigation and voice recognition, and a wireless phone charger.
Top-grade GTS variant gains sports pedals, head-up display, and premium 12-speaker JBL sound system.
The GR Supra GTS is also available with two exclusive options – Alcantara interior trim and upholstery and a matte grey paint – each priced at $2500.
Once we have tested and assessed the new Toyota Supra GR, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.