Toyota’s legendary GR Supra is set to enter a new era, with reports indicating that the next-generation model will feature a Mazda-sourced engine. According to the Japanese publication BestCar, Toyota plans to use Mazda’s 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine—currently powering the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90—in the upcoming Supra.
This marks a significant shift for Toyota, which currently relies on BMW’s 3.0-liter inline-six for the Supra. The existing engine produces 285kW and 500Nm, and while Mazda’s version outputs 254kW and 500Nm in its SUVs, Toyota is expected to enhance performance to match or surpass the current Supra’s figures.
Hybrid Possibilities and Transmission Speculation
One of the key questions surrounding the new GR Supra is whether Toyota will integrate hybrid technology into the powertrain. While no official confirmation has been given, the possibility remains open, especially given Toyota’s extensive hybrid expertise.
Another uncertainty is the availability of a manual transmission. The current Supra, after much demand, introduced a six-speed manual gearbox for enthusiasts. Whether Toyota will continue offering a stick shift in the next-generation model is unclear, though purists will be hoping for one.
Mazda’s Long-Awaited Sports Car Comeback
In addition to supplying the engine for the Supra, Mazda is reportedly developing its own sports coupe, potentially as a spiritual successor to the iconic RX-7. BestCar suggests that Mazda’s upcoming coupe could be based on the same platform as the next Supra, strengthening ties between the two Japanese automakers.
However, speculation about an RX-7 successor has persisted for over a decade, with no production model in sight. The RX-Vision concept, unveiled in 2015, fueled hopes for a rotary-powered sports car, but no concrete plans have emerged since. Whether this latest rumor will finally materialize into a real car remains to be seen.
Will Mazda’s Six-Cylinder Sedan Finally Arrive?
Japanese media have long speculated about Mazda producing a six-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive sedan, potentially reviving the Mazda 6 nameplate in a premium format. Despite numerous reports over the years, no such model has reached production.
If Mazda does decide to move forward with such a vehicle, the 3.3-liter inline-six could become the heart of a luxury sports sedan, offering enthusiasts an alternative to European brands. While Toyota focuses on integrating the engine into the next Supra, Mazda’s use of this powertrain remains a topic of speculation.
The End of the BMW-Toyota Partnership?
The current GR Supra is based on the BMW Z4 platform, the result of a partnership between Toyota and BMW. However, with BMW reportedly planning to discontinue the Z4 by 2025 or 2026, Toyota is seeking a new direction for the Supra. The move to Mazda’s engine could signify the end of Toyota’s collaboration with BMW for its flagship sports car.
What’s Next for the Supra?
With the next-generation GR Supra expected to debut in the coming years, all eyes are on Toyota to see how it will refine and evolve its iconic sports car. If Mazda’s 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six is indeed the chosen powerplant, it could lead to a more unique and distinctive Supra compared to its German-derived predecessor.
While many details remain unknown, one thing is clear: Toyota and Mazda’s partnership is growing stronger, and the next Supra could mark the beginning of a new performance legacy for both brands.
