The A90 Toyota Supra is a very solid sports car but one could argue the new Nissan Z has stolen some of its thunder, in particular with the recent launch of the Z Nismo. Fortunately, Toyota is already readying a response in the form of a more potent version of the Supra, potentially dubbed the Supra GRMN.
We first spied a prototype being put to the test at the Nurburgring last week but it’s not until now that we can see and hear the car on the move for the first time. Clearly, it sounds slightly more visceral and exciting than the current car, although we wouldn’t say it sounds particularly raucous or aggressive. Aftermarket exhaust companies should fret, then.
Read: Here’s Why We Think The Toyota GRMN Supra Will Get M2, Not M4 Power
Photos SH Proshots for CarScoops
The most exciting thing about the 2025 Supra GRMN will be what’s going on beneath the skin. It was initially reported that the answer to the Z Nismo would borrow the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder of the entry-level BMW M3 and pair it with a choice of a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic.
While it remains possible that M4 power will be used, it is also possible the Supra GRMN will get the same 453 hp 3.0-liter mill as the current BMW M2. Whatever the case may be, it is set to have significantly more grunt than the base Supra’s 382 horses and more than the 420 hp of the Z Nismo.
Power won’t be the only thing that the Supra GRMN has over the Z Nismo. Nissan has copped a fair amount of criticism for only offering the Z Nismo with a specially-tuned 9-speed automatic transmission, rather than the six-speed manual also offered on the base model. By comparison, it is quite clear that this prototype has a six-speed stick shift, making it that much more driver-focused and engaging. As mentioned, an eight-speed auto for those who’d prefer to let the computers do the work will also be available.
Numerous visual changes have also been made to the car. These include a revised front fascia with a more pronounced splitter and aerodynamic canards on each side. This prototype also sits on a new set of wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Other obvious upgrades include a lowered ride height and a fixed rear wing.