Following months of speculation, purists may rejoice now as the 2023 Toyota GR Supra 6-speed manual finally makes its Malaysian debut, offered as a second variant alongside the 8-speed automatic version.
The car that started the Gazoo Racing brand of Toyota performance models, is also launched alongside two of its latest members, the 2023 Toyota GR86 and the raucous 2023 Toyota GR Corolla by UMW Toyota Motor.
Also read: For the drivers: Toyota GR86 launched in Malaysia - From RM 295k, 237 PS/250 Nm
But first things first, the two variants of the 2023 GR Supra are priced as follows:
- GR Supra 3.0 M/T: RM 645,000
- GR Supra 3.0 A/T: RM 655,000
As before, the 2023 GR Supra is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six that develops 388 PS and 500 Nm between 1,800 – 5,000 rpm, channelled exclusively to the rear wheels via the aforementioned 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic.
In terms of performance, the 2023 GR Supra 6MT is claimed to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.6 seconds versus the 8-speed automatic in 4.1 seconds, and will keep accelerating to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Also read: Yours for only RM 355k: Toyota GR Corolla launched in Malaysia - 300 PS/370 Nm, 6MT
Moving on to the juicy bits, the 2023 GR Supra 6MT features a ‘bespoke’ manual transmission sourced from ZF, which has been engineered and tuned specifically for use with the GR Supra’s engine.
Adapting the 6-speed manual involved modifying the existing transmission housing, driveshaft and gear set whilst removing elements that were not required, such as the acoustic package, to further reduce weight.
At the heart of the transmission is a newly-engineered clutch with a larger diameter and reinforced diaphragm spring. Offering a larger friction area and a stronger spring, for better response and greater reliability.
Managing the 6MT unit is Toyota's iMT, an intelligent control system programmed with new software that prioritises sporty performance. When upshifting, the iMT is tuned to optimise engine torque at the moment of clutch engagement and release; on downshifts, the software has been fine-tuned for consistent performance.
To improve acceleration, the final drive ratio of the 6MT variant has also been shortened, from 3.15 (in the GR Supra automatic) to 3.46.
The refreshed 2023 GR Supra 6MT also features retuned suspension and more rigid vulcanised rubber in the front and rear anti-roll bar bushes for sharper handling. To top it off, Toyota also fettled with the 2023 GR Supra’s traction, braking and vehicle stability control to offer predictable launches and driving performance.
Also new is the Hairpin+ Function which allows a greater degree of wheel spin when taking tight bends on an uphill gradient (+ 5%). This allows for more fluidic slides out of tight corners, such as those on a mountain road.
Also read: Is that a manual 2023 Toyota GR Supra? You’re damn right it is… in the metal
However, changes aren't just mechanical. Due to insufficient clearance to house the new 6-speed manual gear shifter, Toyota also had to redesign the central console and installed a weighted (200 gm) gearknob for precise gear throws.
Also new to the 2023 GR Supra is the lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels which are wrapped in 255/35 tyres in front and 275/35 tyres in the rear.
As a sports car, the interior of the GR Supra has been laid out with a driver-centric approach. Its long list of standard features includes leather upholstery, Heads-Up Display, electrically-adjustable sports seats, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system.
The 2023 GR Supra is offered in eight colours – Prominence Red, Lighting Yellow, White Metallic, Black Metallic, Dawn Blue Metallic, Volcanic Ash Grey Metallic, Matte Avalanche White Metallic and the highlight Matte Storm Grey Metallic.
The 2023 GR Supra will be offered exclusively at GR Garage at selected authorized Toyota dealerships in Peninsula Malaysia. The 2023 GR Supra comes with a 5-year / unlimited mileage factory warranty.