Next-Gen Toyota Supra to use Mazda Inline Six

Toyota’s partnership with Mazda is set to strengthen, with the next-generation Toyota GR Supra to be powered by Mazda’s six-cylinder engine.

According to Japanese magazine BestCar, Toyota is set to adopt Mazda’s 3.3-litre turbocharged inline-six engine for the next Supra – the same engine powering the CX-60, CX-70, CX-80, and CX-90.

The engine produces 254kW and 500Nm in several Mazda models – though a more powerful version is likely, given the current Supra produces 285kW and 500Nm from its BMW-sourced 3.0-litre inline-six.

It’s possible the GR Supra could also adopt hybrid technology, though it’s not clear whether a manual gearbox will be offered in the new model.

BestCar is also reporting Mazda will produce its own sportscar – a follow-up to the RX-7 – which would likely be based on the Supra.

However, rumours of an RX-7 successor – believed to be previewed by the RX-Vision concept, now 10 years old – have persisted for years, without any production vehicle ever appearing.

For several years, Japanese media have also reported rumours of a six-cylinder, rear-wheel-drive Mazda 6 sedan, which has yet to be seen.

Whether or not the Mazda coupe or sedan does come to fruition, there is a strong likelihood Toyota will utilise its share-holding in Mazda and borrow its 3.3-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine for the new-generation Supra.

The current GR Supra – based on the underpinnings of the BMW Z4 – is set to end production in 2025 or 2026, with BMW shelving plans for a new-generation Z4.