Exactly two weeks ago, we reported that the 2023 Toyota GR Supra is supposedly getting a manual transmission. Yesterday, it has been confirmed by the brand that it’s definitely happening. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, we finally have a three-pedal stick-shift manual Supra again!
Photo: Toyota
The manual transmission will be offered on the 2023 year model GR Supra. The sporty gearbox is available as an option for the Supra 3.0, the 3.0 Premium, and for those who want the full shebang, on the limited 500-unit run A91-MT Edition. The limited edition will only be produced for the 2023 model year, so yes, that adds a lot more to the already-premium Supra.
Photo: Toyota
The 6-speed manual is a totally and newly developed gearbox that features intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) programmed software. What it does is that it tunes parameters to optimize torque at the moment of clutch engagement and release when shifting up. When downshifting, the software has likewise been fine-tuned for consistent performance. Not to worry, though, as this can also be turned off in Sport mode for that pure manual experience.
The shifter placement of the manual Supra was also carefully thought of. It’s all about ergonomics from the shape, the 200-gram weight of the shift knob, shift engagement, and shifter throw for the Supra. Engineering and design are so precise that the console unit and drive mode selector’s position were adjusted to give a 1.7-inch clearance between the shift knob and control panel. Nerdy, yes. But in spirited driving and racing, you wouldn’t want you hand hitting anything when shifting.
Photo: Toyota
The final drive was also shortened on the manual Supra. To avoid being slow off the line and to give a lot more acceleration feel, the final drive was engineered from 3.15 (in the automatic variant) to 3.46 in the GR Supra MT. This resulted in greater response and more appropriate gearing meant for a true sports car.
The 2023 Toyota GR Supra is a car tuned for traction, stability, and agility. Given its engine’s awesome power, the all-new transmission was designed to rein that power in. With the TRAction Control (TRAC) system, wheel spin greatly reduces wheel spin. It’s also optimized for the GR Supra’s massive torque, wide tires, and rear-wheel-drive platform. TRAC allows the right amount of power delivery while maintaining stability allowing for a great sporty experience.
While Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is standard, snap-oversteer might still be difficult to control – and avoid. The manual (and automatic) Supra’s Anti-Roll Program (ARP) works with VSC to address a sudden loss of grip when the car’s high-response suspension setting is used. Likewise, Track Mode has been tuned for easier drifting. This makes for a lot of sideways fun in the 2023 Toyota GR Supra.
Photo: Toyota
A lot of updates were given to the 2023 year model production, but the limited-to-500 A91-MT is a different beast. Its interior uses exclusive cognac leather-trimmed seats, an Alcantara shift knob with the GR logo, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system.
The A91-MT will be available in either Matte White or CU Later Gray. It also comes with forged 19-inch Frozen Gunmetal Gray alloy wheels, and the red Supra badge smack in the middle of the rear bumper, with the GR badge likewise on the rear bumper and also on the huge brake calipers. As a finishing touch, red strut tower bars are hidden under the hood of the A91-MT.
Photo: Toyota
For the 2023 Supra 3.0 AT and MT versions, both get a retuned suspension for improved roll balance and ride comfort. The electric power steering unit was also retuned for better steering wheel feel and response. All 3.0 models will have an active rear sport differential as standard.
The 3.0 MT also comes with 19-inch alloys and will have the same standard and premium color options with the addition of Stratosphere Blue. The 3.0 Premium ups the ante though with everything in the standard 3.0, plus a red and black leather interior, a full-color heads-up display, an acoustically tuned 12-speaker JBL sound system, and a Qi wireless charging pad.
Supra Connect1 is also available. This advanced technology suite is designed to help you get more from your GR Supra 2.0 and 3.0 with Safety and Technology Package, 3.0 Premium, and A91-MT Edition and includes features like Automatic Emergency Call, Real-Time Traffic Information, Roadside Assistance, and the available Supra Connect iPhone app to lock/unlock the doors and activate Ventilation Now and Ventilation Timer features.
Photo: Toyota
The 2023 Toyota GR Supra and #savethemanual
Gazoo Racing wants to #savethemanual, and the 2023 Toyota GR Supra is the embodiment of this dream. Toyota President Akio Toyoda wanted to deliver a car that is purely about the joy of driving. By reviving the Supra badge, and now with the development of a manual Supra, we can safely say that a lot of joy and driving are things we can look forward to in this car.
We can’t wait to try it out, for sure. If you’re as excited and giddy as we are with the 2023 Toyota GR Supra manual, chime in and tell us how you’d drive this stick-shift beast.
