Toyota Canada Chimes In on Latest Manual GR Supra Rumours

So, when will Toyota finally decide to add a manual gearbox to the GR Supra? There’s been plenty of speculation since the return of the iconic Japanese sports coupe in 2019. A report in July 2020 even made it look like a sure thing.

Well, the rumour mill is busy again. This time, Japanese publication Car Sensor claims that a manual GR Supra will launch next spring as a 2023 model. The option would be exclusive to the 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, meaning buyers who select the base 2.0-litre four-cylinder would be left out.

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Right now, the only transmission available with both engines is an eight-speed automatic—as is the case with the GR Supra’s mechanical twin, the BMW Z4.

Don’t get your hopes up too soon, though. It’s just another rumour and nothing has been confirmed yet. The Car Guide reached out to Toyota Canada to get an official answer, but the company doesn’t comment on future products.  

“Since the launch of the Supra, many people have asked about a manual transmission, but the reality is that the eight-speed (automatic) transmission not only offers improved performance, but also better fuel economy,” said Public Relations Manager Romaric Lartilleux. “What’s more, manual transmissions are increasingly less popular among drivers. That being said, Toyota is always monitoring industry trends and customer requests in order to offer the best possible products.”

That last sentence echoes the automaker’s stance over the past two years, which is to keep the door open to anything.

One thing’s for sure: pressure is mounting. Remember, the all-new 2023 Nissan Z—set to become the GR Supra’s next biggest rival—will be available with a clutch and stick. We’ll keep you posted.