The Toyota Supra, a name synonymous with performance, sleek design, and a legacy that burns bright in the hearts of car enthusiasts. When the fifth-generation Supra (A90/A91) emerged from the shadows in 2019, it ignited a firestorm of debate and discussion. Among the most persistent and hotly debated topics was, and still is: does the Supra truly have a BMW engine? The short answer is yes, but the full story is far more nuanced and interesting. This article delves into the specifics of the Supra’s engine, the collaborative efforts between Toyota and BMW, and the impact this partnership has had on the car’s performance and reception.
The Genesis of the A90 Supra: A Partnership Forged
To understand the presence of a BMW engine in the Supra, it’s crucial to appreciate the context of its development. Toyota, seeking to revive the Supra nameplate after a long hiatus, recognized the immense investment and resources required to develop a sports car from the ground up. Simultaneously, BMW was looking to create a successor to the Z4 roadster. The opportunity for collaboration presented itself, offering a mutually beneficial solution: Toyota and BMW joined forces to co-develop a platform that would underpin both the Supra and the Z4.
This collaboration wasn’t simply a matter of slapping a BMW engine into a Toyota chassis. It was a deeper engineering partnership, with both companies contributing their expertise to various aspects of the vehicle. While the engine and some other core components were sourced from BMW, Toyota played a significant role in the overall design, tuning, and character of the Supra.
The Heart of the Matter: The BMW B58 Engine
The centerpiece of the controversy – or perhaps, the collaboration – is the engine itself. The A90 Supra, specifically the models from 2020 onwards, is powered by BMW’s B58 inline-six turbocharged engine. This is a 3.0-liter engine renowned for its smooth power delivery, responsiveness, and tunability. It’s a modern marvel of engineering, packed with technology designed to maximize performance and efficiency.
The B58 engine is not just a generic off-the-shelf BMW powerplant. It has been specifically tuned and calibrated for the Supra, taking into account Toyota’s desired performance characteristics and driving dynamics. While the fundamental architecture remains BMW’s, Toyota engineers worked closely with their BMW counterparts to refine the engine’s behavior to suit the Supra’s sporty nature.
Breaking Down the B58: Key Features
The B58 engine boasts a number of impressive features that contribute to its overall performance:
- Turbocharging: A twin-scroll turbocharger helps to boost power and torque across a wide rev range, minimizing lag and providing instant throttle response.
- Direct Injection: High-precision direct fuel injection ensures efficient fuel delivery and optimal combustion, contributing to both performance and fuel economy.
- Variable Valve Timing: BMW’s Double-VANOS system optimizes valve timing for both intake and exhaust valves, maximizing engine breathing and improving power and efficiency.
- Closed-Deck Engine Block: The closed-deck design of the engine block provides increased rigidity and strength, allowing for higher power outputs and improved durability.
Performance Figures: Power and Acceleration
The B58 engine in the Supra delivers impressive performance figures. Early models produced around 335 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque. However, Toyota upped the ante in 2021, increasing the power output to 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This boost in power significantly improved the Supra’s acceleration, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 3.9 seconds. These figures put the Supra firmly in the realm of high-performance sports cars.
Beyond the Engine: What Toyota Brought to the Table
While the B58 engine is undoubtedly a BMW component, it’s important to acknowledge Toyota’s contributions to the Supra’s overall design and driving experience. Toyota wasn’t simply a passive recipient of BMW technology. They actively participated in shaping the car’s identity.
Chassis Tuning and Suspension
Toyota engineers were heavily involved in tuning the Supra’s chassis and suspension. They meticulously refined the car’s handling characteristics, ensuring that it delivered the kind of sharp, responsive, and engaging driving experience that Supra enthusiasts expected. The suspension geometry, damper settings, and steering feel were all carefully calibrated to provide a balanced and exhilarating driving experience.
Exterior and Interior Design
The exterior design of the Supra is unmistakably Toyota. While some may see design cues from past models, the overall aesthetic is a modern and aggressive interpretation of the Supra’s iconic silhouette. The interior, while sharing some components with BMW vehicles, also features unique Toyota design elements. The dashboard layout, seating position, and overall ergonomics were all tailored to create a driver-focused environment.
Software and Calibration
Even with a shared engine, the engine control unit (ECU) software and calibrations differ between the Supra and BMW Z4. Toyota has implemented their own unique tuning strategies to optimize the engine’s performance characteristics for the Supra. This includes adjustments to throttle response, boost control, and fuel mapping.
The Reception: Controversy and Acceptance
The collaboration between Toyota and BMW was met with a mixed reception. Some Supra purists were initially skeptical, arguing that a “true” Supra should have an entirely Toyota-developed engine. Others embraced the partnership, recognizing the benefits of leveraging BMW’s engine expertise to create a high-performance sports car.
Over time, the initial skepticism has largely subsided. The Supra has proven itself to be a capable and enjoyable sports car, regardless of its engine’s origins. Its strong performance, sharp handling, and distinctive design have won over many critics. The fact that the B58 engine is known for its reliability and tunability has also contributed to the Supra’s growing popularity.
The Z4 Connection: Sharing is Caring?
The shared platform between the Supra and the BMW Z4 is undeniable. Both cars utilize the same basic chassis, engine, and transmission. However, despite these similarities, the two cars offer distinct driving experiences. The Supra is a coupe, while the Z4 is a roadster. This fundamental difference in body style contributes to differences in handling, weight distribution, and overall feel.
Furthermore, Toyota and BMW have tuned the cars differently to cater to their respective target audiences. The Supra is generally considered to be the more focused and performance-oriented of the two, while the Z4 is more geared towards comfort and luxury.
Beyond the B58: The Four-Cylinder Option
While the B58 inline-six is the engine most closely associated with the A90 Supra, Toyota also offers a four-cylinder variant powered by BMW’s B48 engine. This 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces around 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. While not as powerful as the six-cylinder, the four-cylinder Supra offers a more affordable and fuel-efficient option. It still provides a fun and engaging driving experience, thanks to its lighter weight and nimble handling.
The Future of Supra: Electric Dreams?
Looking ahead, the future of the Supra remains uncertain. With the automotive industry rapidly transitioning towards electric vehicles, it’s likely that future generations of the Supra will feature some form of electrification. Whether Toyota will continue to collaborate with BMW on future models remains to be seen. However, given the success of the A90 Supra, it’s certainly a possibility.
Final Verdict: A Successful Collaboration
The Toyota Supra’s use of a BMW engine is a testament to the power of collaboration. By partnering with BMW, Toyota was able to bring the Supra back to life, equipping it with a world-class engine that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While some purists may have preferred an entirely Toyota-developed engine, the reality is that the collaboration has resulted in a fantastic sports car that honors the Supra legacy. The B58 engine provides the Supra with power and refinement, while Toyota’s tuning and design ensure that it retains its unique character. The Supra’s story is one of successful collaboration and demonstrates that sometimes, the best results come from joining forces.
FAQ 1: Does the current generation Toyota Supra (A90/A91) actually use a BMW engine?
Yes, the current generation Toyota Supra, specifically the A90 and A91 models, does indeed utilize a BMW-sourced engine. This engine is the B58, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine produced by BMW. It’s a highly regarded engine known for its performance, responsiveness, and tunability, and it forms a core part of the Supra’s powerplant.
This collaboration between Toyota and BMW was part of a larger joint project that also resulted in the BMW Z4 roadster. While the engine is manufactured and designed by BMW, Toyota engineers were involved in the integration and tuning of the engine within the Supra’s chassis. This ensures the engine’s performance characteristics align with the overall driving experience that Toyota aimed to deliver for the Supra.
FAQ 2: What specific BMW engine is used in the Toyota Supra?
The engine used in the Toyota Supra is the BMW B58B30, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This engine is part of BMW’s B58 modular engine family, which is known for its versatility and use in various BMW models. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VANOS), and Valvetronic lift control, all contributing to its performance and efficiency.
The B58 engine in the Supra has been specifically tuned and calibrated by both BMW and Toyota engineers to deliver a distinct driving experience. While the core engine architecture remains the same as in BMW applications, the software, exhaust system, and other components have been modified to suit the Supra’s specific character and performance targets. This ensures the engine integrates seamlessly with the Supra’s chassis and handling characteristics.
FAQ 3: Besides the engine, what other components are shared between the Supra and BMW Z4?
Beyond the engine, the Toyota Supra and BMW Z4 share a significant portion of their underlying platform and mechanical components. This includes the chassis, suspension components, steering system, and various electronic control units. The shared platform allowed both companies to leverage development costs and streamline the manufacturing process.
However, it’s important to note that while the core components are shared, Toyota and BMW have implemented distinct tuning and calibrations for their respective vehicles. This means the Supra and Z4 offer different driving experiences despite sharing a common foundation. The suspension setup, steering feel, and electronic stability control systems are all tailored to reflect each brand’s individual philosophies.
FAQ 4: Why did Toyota choose to use a BMW engine in the Supra instead of developing their own?
Toyota’s decision to use a BMW engine was primarily driven by factors related to cost, time, and expertise. Developing a new high-performance inline-six engine from scratch would have been a significantly more expensive and time-consuming undertaking. Partnering with BMW allowed Toyota to leverage BMW’s existing expertise and resources in engine development.
Furthermore, BMW’s B58 engine already possessed the performance characteristics and reliability that Toyota sought for the Supra. By utilizing a proven engine, Toyota could focus its resources on other areas, such as styling, handling, and overall driving dynamics. This collaboration ultimately allowed Toyota to bring the Supra back to the market in a more efficient and timely manner.
FAQ 5: Does the Supra’s BMW engine affect its reliability or maintenance?
The BMW B58 engine used in the Supra is generally considered to be a reliable engine, and its presence does not inherently negatively affect the Supra’s overall reliability. BMW has a long history of producing high-quality engines, and the B58 is no exception. However, like any performance engine, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure its longevity.
Regarding maintenance, the Supra will generally require similar servicing as a BMW with the same engine. Parts availability is typically good, and qualified technicians can be found at both Toyota and BMW dealerships. It’s essential to follow the recommended maintenance schedule and use approved fluids and parts to maintain the engine’s performance and reliability.
FAQ 6: Does the fact that the Supra has a BMW engine make it less of a “true” Supra?
Whether the use of a BMW engine makes the Supra less of a “true” Supra is a subjective question that is often debated among enthusiasts. Some argue that the Supra’s legacy is tied to its iconic Toyota-designed engines, particularly the 2JZ. Therefore, using a BMW engine deviates from that heritage.
However, others argue that the spirit of the Supra lies in its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. They contend that as long as the Supra delivers on those aspects, the origin of the engine is less relevant. Ultimately, the perception of whether the current Supra is a “true” Supra is a matter of personal opinion and depends on individual values and expectations.
FAQ 7: Where can I find information about servicing and maintenance for the Supra’s BMW engine?
Information regarding servicing and maintenance for the Toyota Supra’s BMW engine can be found in several places. The owner’s manual provides a comprehensive overview of the recommended maintenance schedule and procedures. Toyota dealerships are also equipped to service the Supra and can provide expert advice and assistance.
Furthermore, online forums and communities dedicated to the Supra and BMW vehicles often contain valuable information and discussions regarding maintenance and troubleshooting. BMW dealerships and independent BMW specialists can also provide servicing, given the engine’s BMW origin. Consulting multiple sources and qualified technicians is always recommended for any maintenance or repair needs.