For many, a sports car without a manual transmission is sacrilege. Well, Toyota knows this and lost some time after the Supra’s return in 2020, introducing a new manual transmission (MT) option available for the 2023 GR Supra 3.0, 3.0 Premium and the all-new limited edition A91-MT Edition. Even the 2021 GR Supra added more power, a revised chassis, a 4-cylinder version with 255 hp. for the first time.
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Add a new steering and suspension adjustment and a new Hairpin + feature in all 2023 GR Supra 3.0 models, plus a better audio system than JBL Audio in the mix, Toyota’s coupe seems to be evolving with its younger brother GR 86, which received major renovation for 2022.
Manual transmission specifically designed for Supra’s V6 engine
2023 GR Supra 3.0. Photo: Toyota 2023 GR Supra 3.0. Photo: Supra
The Gazoo Racing Supra finally received a 6-speed manual transmission for the 3.0, 3.0 Premium and limited edition A91-MT Edition to give drivers more control over their driving. The carmaker has developed this drive precisely to match the power and torque characteristics of its 3.0-liter V6 engine. In addition to the powertrain, engineers are also reorganizing Supra’s brake and suspension systems for improved performance.
Speaking of the new manual transmission, the engineers modified the current transmission box, drive shaft and gear set and eliminated unnecessary parts, such as the acoustic package, to reduce weight. The team developed a new clutch diameter with a reinforced diaphragm spring. Thanks to the larger friction space and the reinforced spring, this new part offers better performance in line with the GR Supra’s high torque power unit.
iMT with new software
The recently created “smart manual transmission” (iMT) uses new software that gives performance advantage. The software improves engine torque by depressing and releasing the clutch pedal while shifting into a higher gear. On the other hand, lower gears ensure stable performance. While iMT is the default option for the new 2023 GR Supra, you can deactivate it in sport mode.
2023 GR Supra 3.0. Photo: Toyota
Although the automatic GR Supra is available with a 3.15 final gear ratio, engineers have reduced it to 3.46 for the GR Supra MT to prevent lazy takeoffs and a feeling of low acceleration in gear.
Toyota is also careful when installing the manual switch in the cockpit. The lever ratio is adjusted mainly to reduce the effort required to change gears. In addition, the engineers paid great attention to the weight and shape of the 200-gram gearbox knob, as well as ergonomics. They also changed the location of the console module and the drive mode selector to offer a 1.7-inch space between the buttons and the shift knob.
Reduced weight
The new Toyota GR Supra (for Europe) has lost almost 40 kilograms (88 pounds), thanks to 19-inch low-weight wheels and removal of the leather upholstery of the seats, power adjustment, lumbar support and acoustic package.
New for 2023: GR Supra Limited Edition A91-MT
New for 2023, the A91-MT trim level comes with a standard manual transmission, along with all the amenities we get in Premium, plus Cognac leather upholstery, an Alcantara toggle switch and a new 12-speaker JBL sound system. The model is limited to only 500 pieces available in CU Later Gray or Matte White paint. The A91-MT is exclusive to US markets for the 2023 model year.
Other settings
In addition to the new manual transmission and the special edition of the A91-MT, there is also the new GR Supra. Engineers have further modified the suspension and steering in addition to setting the Track mode for seamless drifting with freedom of throttle control.
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Interestingly, Toyota has introduced the Hairpin + feature to enhance the new GR Supras for fun driving. It improves engine torque control to offer a superior difference in wheel speed.
2023 GR Supra Price and availability
Expect the 2023 GR Supra to hit dealers before the end of this year. The price will be announced before the date of sale. In the meantime, check out our full review of the 2021 Toyota GR Supra 3.0 with our driving experience.
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