The 2021 GR Supra Brings the Heat This Summer

Last year’s reemergence of the Toyota Supra was a big surprise for sports-car lovers, and the 2021 Toyota Supra has even more surprises, like having the all-new Supra reimagined as the Batmobile! That’s right, the 2021 Supra is so cool, even caped crusaders are driving it. In its fifth generation, and after coming back from a twenty-one-year hiatus, the Toyota Supra is living up to its expectations. What exactly are these expectations? Well, the Supra has always been fast and cool like all good sports cars should be, but it's also made to be modified to stand out. In fact, there are already tons of kit options out there for the ’21 Supra. Reviews of the 2020 Supra celebrated the sports car as a stalwart machine, hitting a high bar of endurance and speed, and smoothness. Since it is modeled after the BMW Z4, it’s not difficult to see why it received such high praises. But that’s not all that car drivers like about the vehicle. There’s also the look (which is nothing like a BMW) with its access curvature and low-sitting frame. The body seems to wrap around itself, undulating over the wheelbase and under the hood then back around again. Throw in its proven endurance and the fact that the new Supra can be modified in just about a million ways, and you have yourself a nice little sports car. Supra the New Batmobile? Toyota wanted a sports car that runs as good as the best out there, but one that can also be modified to fit the mood and style of the driver. You can have it your way—keep it as is, or change it up. Change it up, is just what respected digital automotive designer, Ted Li, did when he reimagined the Toyota Supra as something a little…different. Something a little Batmobile-esque. Working for places like Harvard and Google, and excelling in both, has garnered Ted Li notoriety, but his most recent revelation has people really excited. Mr. Li brought a few designs to the table, each of them showing a futuristic take on the signature curved design of the Supra. We are not sure of the engine type just yet, but it will most likely be the BMW-sourced inline-six. The first of the inspired cars is an elongated machine with plenty of futuristic flare, and even though we can only currently view it from the back, it is clearly striking and looks to have similar curves and design features as the Batmobile. The second is less car and more lifted, off-roading machine. Its angular panels over the body bring sharp contrast to the natural curves of the Supra, and it ends up looking like something that would be roving over the surface of the moon. In other words, it looks like one of the toughest vehicles ever created here on earth. Clearly, forward-thinkers and designers like Ted Li, Elon Musk, and Toyota have a certain design, or at least a rough archetype of the design, that these futuristic trucks and off-roaders will look like. Tesla’s Cybertruck, Ted Li’s supersized Supra, both are full of sharp, tight angles and a tank-like stance. If this truck-SUV-moon walker vehicle were to make its way into a new Batman movie it definitely would not seem out of place. There is no official word on if these vehicles will be used in any new Batman movies, but the timing is a bit curious with the new film coming out soon—and the possibility of more to come. A Quick Look at the 2021 Supra (for those who don’t wear capes) The 2021 Toyota Supra comes in four versions: the 2.0, 3.0, Premium, and the A91. They obviously all have their strengths and features, but they all—even the entry-level 2.0—fit the bill of a worthwhile sports car. Starting with the 2.0 Supra, it comes with a turbo-4 engine and 255 horsepower. Its speed and quickness are impressive, to say the least, and this option does save a bit on fuel cost. This smooth operator comes in rear-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic (the ONLY critique we have of the new Supras is that none of the versions come with a manual transmission option). It gets up to 60 miles-per-hour in just 5 seconds, and it tops out at a speed of 155 mph. The 3.0 Supra operates with a turbo-6 and 382 horsepower, which provides a noticeable difference from the 2.0. This one has that extra zip to it, which is too much for some, but just right for those speed-demons. Speaking of, the 3.0 version hits 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. It comes with a five-link rear suspension, which is rather stiff and helps with the handling and control of the car, especially at high speeds. A few more noteworthy pieces of information on the 2021 Toyota Supra you should know before your buy: All the safety and tech gear for the all-new Supra (standard automatic emergency braking and a standard 8.8-inch Infotainment touchscreen) are supplied by BMW. Wireless Apple CarPlay is optional (at additional cost) on base models, as well as, blind-spot monitors and adaptive cruise control. At the $50,000 price range, the high-end Supra comes with wireless smartphone charging, heated leather seats, and 500-watt audio. Color Options Driving a sports car is a bold statement. This is not to imply anyone driving a sports car is enduring his or her midlife crisis, but rather that sporting around in a new Supra says something about you. It shows you like to have fun, maybe you like to live on the edge a bit—but not too dangerously. Driving a Supra says you did your research and, for the price and power and beauty, the Supra is the best choice out there. So to go along with your bold choice, choose something that pops! Toyota has come out with some great colors for the 2021 Supra—you might find yourself having a difficult time deciding which one you like best. Here are the options: Absolute Zero Nitro Yellow Nocturnal Renaissance Red 2.0 Tungsten Turbulence Gray Refraction The technology of the New Supra Lastly, we have to mention the technology features on the 2021 Supra, because what is a sports car if it isn't up-to-date with all the techy bells and whistles. Here is a list of a few featured tech specs to the new Supras: Supra Connect. This is a technology suite that includes automatic emergency calling; real-time traffic information; roadside assistance; concierge services; a battery guard that actually emails you when your battery is low; and advanced iPhone connectivity (that allows you to lock/unlock doors and more). Integrated Navigation. Using the high-resolution, 8.8-inch touchscreen, drivers can get turn-by-turn navigation quickly and easily. Qi-Compatible Wireless Charging. This is a highly-innovative charging system that allows you to simply lay your phone on the charging station for a super-fast charge. No cords to get tangled or frayed. Simply set your phone down and let your Supra do the work. Head-Up Display. Using the same technology seen in fighter jets, the Head-Up Display projects full-color imagery of important information directly in front of you while you drive. With just a quick look you are able to see your speed, navigation information, and much more. With more information coming out daily about the 2021 Toyota Supra, be sure to check in with us at Mount Airy Toyota to get all the important updates— including test drives!

For most of us, this summer’s vacation has turned into more of a staycation, which means we will find ourselves in our vehicles a lot more than usual. So why not enjoy what you are driving? The all-new, 2020 Toyota Supra is a great summer ride: it’s fast, sexy, affordable, and a great way to make your staycation feel more like a vacation. The Toyota Supra was always destined for fame. When it was first exported to the States back in 1979 it was hit due to its notably high-performance levels production quality. Drivers were amazed at the Supra’s stylish and cool interior, the advanced technology. And even though Toyota discontinued the Supra in 1998, everyone knew it would be back. And, well…it’s back! And what a perfect time to resurrect such a venerated and fun machine. Last year it was made official: the Supra is coming back and this time it’s even more impressive. With a six-cylinder, turbocharged engine and 335 horsepower, the new Toyota Supra is a force to be reckoned with. The 2020 Toyota Supra is here, and it’s the car of the summer. It’s Worth the Hype The 2020 GR Supra is beautiful. It’s almost as fun to look at as it is to drive, and oh just wait until you get behind the wheel of this wondrous creation. Looking over the color schemes alone makes you want to pull up a seat and gander at the car like it’s a piece of fine art. “Nocturnal,” which is a pitch-black exterior with a bright sheen and thoughtful highlights of red on the side mirrors and brakes, draws you close to the car to touch it and make sure it’s real. There’s also the “Phantom,” a gun-metal grey that highlights each curve and bending of metal as if they are brushstrokes left by the artist. There are eleven color options in all, and each has its singular impact, making the car something unique—not only amongst its own kind but also among any other vehicle on the road. Let’s have a closer look at the 2020 Toyota Supra: Highlights To reintroduce the Supra, Toyota knew they needed to go big. And they did. They began by working closely with BMW to begin production on a new racer and grand touring car. What they ended up with is a 3.0-liter, twin-turbo 16 engine. From here, the two car companies split paths, each to perfect and refine the engine as they wanted. Toyota decided, rather than go the hard-core performance route, they would create a high-performing sport’s car that was more approachable by the public and introduce it as the new Supra, something fun and affordable and perfect for summer drives anywhere. The Toyota Supra’s engine is powerful enough to snap your head back when you hit the peddle, but it also has the smooth ride and control of a classy sports car. 335 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque get the 2020 Supra going from zero to sixty in 4.1 seconds. Oh, and it has a top speed of 155mph, so keep an eye on the speedometer. What helps make the Supra’s engine a high-flyer is its 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters behind the wheel, for those who prefer the control that comes with driving a manual transmission. That said, Toyota does not offer a complete manual transmission in the new Supra. As far as control of the road, the Supra has it. The Brembos brakes with 13.7-inch 4-piston discs up front and an electronic rear differential and launch control system give it complete control over itself on rough or smooth terrain. It handles curves with ease and speed and it stops on a dime. This extreme performance all rests beautifully on four 19-inch Michelin performance-rated tires. The Interior Inside the 2020 Supra is a digital wonderland. There’s the JBL sound system, the wireless phone charger, an 8.8-inch high-resolution display of the Supra’s gauge pod. The car will even remind you not to forget your phone as you arrive at your destination. The ultra-comfortable sport seats come in leather and, along with the dash and steering wheel, are accentuated with precise stitching. Each seat is designed to hold the passenger comfortably by providing extra support for the sides, back, and hips. The driver’s seat has memory settings and both front seats have the option to come heated. From the outside, it feels like the interior would have about as much roominess as a Porsche—that is to say not much at all, but the 2020 Supra is full of surprises. The cockpit, though compact, is quite roomy. There’s plenty of headroom, legroom, etc. You might not be able to lay out and have a nap, but you can absolutely stretch and relax and enjoy the ride. As far as cargo space goes, it’s what you would expect. I wouldn’t plan on hauling large objects, but the 10.2 cubic feet of room goes a long way and is perfect for storing groceries, luggage, and the like. One of the biggest highlights to the new Supra is the great gas mileage. For operating with 335 horses, the Supra rates at 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway—not bad at all for the amount of power and weight this thing has. Safety As much time and effort Toyota spent on making the new Supra sporty and fun was also spent making sure it is safe. The 2020 Supra comes packed with safety features: Rain-sensing windshield wipers Automatic high-beam headlights Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and lane departure warning Driver Assist Package with dynamic cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alter, parking sensors, and emergency braking. Drivers can also opt for the Premium model, which comes with quite a few extra features not offered on the standard models: 12-speaker JBL sound system with a 500-watt amp Wireless charger Color head-up display Supra Connect Communications System Apple CarPlay An 8.8-inch touchscreen (standard models come with a 6.5-inch touch screen). Quick Breakdown: At Mount Airy Toyota we like the 2020 Supra’s sporty look, its impressive power, handling, and braking; we like the zippiness to “sport” mode, the heated-leather sport seats that immediately put you at ease; we also really like the wireless charger, the JBL sound system, and the plethora of safety features.   Here’s a quick breakdown of the Supra’s specs: Engine: 0-liter twin-turbo I6, 335 horsepower Transmission: 8-speed automatic with paddles Weight: 3,397 pounds Length: 5 inches Wheelbase: 2 inches Cargo: 2 cubic feet MPG: 24/31, 23.4 average Base Price: $54,920 Other Options: Carpet cargo mat, Driver Assist Package (dynamic radar cruise control, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sensors with emergency braking) Pricing Starting at around $50,000, including destination fee, the Supra ends up being much less expensive than its competitors. The Premium model begins at $54,920 (including delivery fee), and it has the option to add a carpeted cargo mat package that ends up somewhere around $56,000. There’s also the Launch Edition is a bit fancier and comes with matte black wheels and costs $56,180—only 1,500 Launch Edition models were made. Compare these prices vehicles with similar engines, such as the Chevy Corvette with an automatic transmission or the Jaguar F-Type or the Porsche Cayman, and you will spend anywhere from $9,000 to $20,000 more. So now that the trees are in bloom, what could be more beautiful than a drive through Mount Airy on down to Wrightsville beach, or even the Outer Banks? The Supra is perfect for a quick, fun beach trip. Or maybe this year you are feeling the pull of the mountains instead—steep inclines and beautiful open sky. But a trip up the Blue Ridge Parkway just isn’t as fun without the opportunity to take those curves with speed. Take this scenic drive in style with the brand new Supra and let the road open up before you.

In the world of mid- and full-sized pickup trucks, there are a select few with histories of continued durability and power. Among these, the venerated Toyota Tacoma and Tundra have proven themselves as top contenders by continually, year after year, supplying pickup truck drivers with something rough and tough, yet also something sleek and modern. But of these two fantastic machines, which is the best pick for you? Here is a quick glance at some of the new, notable features of both trucks: The new Toyota Tundra comes fitted with a new suspension, plenty of updated technology, a tougher and sportier design, and more available packages, like the two new powertrain options–a twin-turbo V6 engine and a hybrid twin-turbo V6. Twin-Turbo V6: can tow up to 12,000 pounds and comes paired with a 10-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission; sequential shift mode; uphill/downhill shift logic; and TOW/HAUL driving modes. Hybrid Twin-Turbo V6: generates 437 horsepower and 583 lb.-ft. of torque; also comes paired with a 10-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission; sequential shift mode; uphill/downhill shift logic; and TOW/HAUL driving modes. This year, fans of the top-selling Toyota Tacoma pickup truck will be thrilled to see and sit inside an overhauled interior, a revamp that Tacoma has never seen. Every 2024 Tacoma comes with raised seating, added headroom, and a more adjustable steering column–all designed to bring the new Tacoma to a higher level of comfort and support. The Tacoma also has plenty more upgrades this year on the interior and exterior, as well as, under the hood and body. Tacoma and Tundra: The Specifics It’s a tough decision, choosing between the Tacoma and the Tundra. Both are big, formidable trucks, fitted with all the newest technologies and both are easily customizable to your liking. The Tacoma, the smaller of the two trucks, is one of the highest-rated mid-size pickup trucks in the country, and the full-sized Tundra has made it to the top of most American automaker’s lists as the most popular pickup, pitting itself against the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado 1500. The 2024/2025 models of the Tacoma and Tundra come redesigned for the first time since 2022, making this year a big one for the brand. Both are set to maintain their spot at the top of any serious pickup driver’s list by touting a bulkier frame and a bit more power. Let’s take a closer look: Cab and Bed Sizes The Tacoma comes as either a two-door Xtra Cab or a four-door Double Cab, each configuration offering a little something different. The Xtra Cab allows for two passengers and has plenty of storage space behind the front seats. The Double Cab, on the other hand, offers a rear seat and allows for up to five passengers. As far as bed size, the Xtra Cab comes with a six-foot bed while the Double Cab comes with a choice of either a five-foot or a six-foot bed. The new Tundra, in all its versions, comes as a four-door along with a little more body length and width. The Double Cab is the smallest of the two options, as the CrewMax comes with larger rear doors and more space in the back for passengers. The Tundra also comes with four bed lengths: the Double Cab with a 6.5-foot or an 8.1-foot bed; the CrewMax comes with either a 5.5-foot short bed or a 6.5-foot bed. Power Under the Hood Previous versions of the two Toyota trucks had the Tacoma as a V-6 and the Tundra as a V-8. Both come a bit differently now: the Tacoma’s sole engine choice is a turbocharged four-cylinder, while the Tundra comes with a turbocharged V-6. What’s more, the smaller turbo engines offered come with more power than they ever have before, and both the Tacoma and the Tundra offer hybrid options–the i-Force Max with an extra boost of power. The Tacoma comes standard as a turbocharged, 2.4-liter inline-four engine with 228 horsepower. There is a step up with a 278-horsepower version of this engine, and there is also a hybrid version as an option that operates with a four-cylinder engine that produces up to 326 horsepower. As transmission goes, an eight-speed automatic is standard in most models, but there is an available six-speed manual with certain trim levels that can produce as much as 270 horsepower. The new Tundra comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter, V-6 engine with or without hybrid capabilities. The base version of the Tundra comes with 389 horsepower and the i-Force Max hybrid has 437 hp. Towing and Payload It’s no surprise the bigger Tundra can tow and haul more than the Tacoma, but as the smaller sibling, the Tacoma can hold its own as well. In the SR5 Double Cab configuration with rear-wheel drive, the Tundra can tow up to 12,000 pounds with a total payload capacity of 1,940 pounds. Meanwhile, the Tacoma is able to handle up to 6,500 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,709 pounds–nothing small about that at all! Going Off the Grid Besides their luxurious rides and standout power, the Tacoma and Tundra trucks have built a reputation for off-roading, primarily in the TRD Pro trim levels. Both trucks offer the TRD Pro option that features tons of surprising upgrades that help to traverse through tough terrain. This version of the Tacoma and Tundra also comes with a more rugged physique with black trim, special coloring, unique wheels, and stylish badging throughout the interior and exterior. The TRD Pro includes four-wheel drive as standard for both models, while this feature comes as optional on most of the other trim levels. Additionally, both trucks under the TRD Pro trims come equipped with lifted suspension setups with special Fox shocks and 33-inch all-terrain tires. For ground clearance, the Tacoma’s smaller size makes it a little better than the Tundra for navigating tighter trails. Lastly, the new Tacoma is introducing a new trim level called the TrailHunter, which is a more extreme version of the TRD Pro. The TrailHunter comes with the same mechanical upgrades as the TRD Pro, and it is set to accommodate overlanding extras like a rooftop tent and accessory lights, as well as, additional power outlets and an onboard compressor–the perfect setup for using your Toyota pickup as an outdoor tent. What is great about the Tacoma and Tundra trucks is that both are large and agile enough to have some fun when off the beaten path, yet they are compact enough to handle any suburban commute; this versatility, in addition to the uncanny longevity, is one of the key factors to the growing popularity of Toyota truck—especially in an age where people like to have the option to head to the mountains on a whim and know that their vehicle is more than capable of handling anything.