Manual Toyota Supra locked in for 2022 – report

A six-speed manual transmission option for the Toyota GR Supra sports car has been green-lit for production, and could arrive in overseas showrooms later this year – according to a new report from The Drive.

Citing “insider dealer sources” in North America, the article suggests a three-pedal layout will be introduced – but doesn't state whether it will be offered with the 190kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine standard in overseas models, or the 285kW/500Nm 3.0-litre turbo six-cylinder that serves as the only option available in Australia.

Offering the transmission exclusively with the entry-level model may appear to be a more cost-effective move, as the six-speed manual is available in Europe (and was, until recently, in Australia) available with the base 2.0-litre variant of the Supra's mechanical cousin, the BMW Z4 sDrive20i.

However, last year Japanese publication Car Sensor reported the six-cylinder – which makes up the majority of sales overseas – would be offered with a manual, while the four-cylinder wouldn't. This was reported to be a decision made mid-way through the powertrain's development.

The four-cylinder is not currently offered in Australia, however an eight-speed torque-converter automatic is the only transmission available with either engine worldwide at present.

A spokesperson for Toyota in Australia was unable to comment on the new claims, and local dealers contacted by Drive did not have further information to share.

If such a model were to go into production, it’s unclear if – or when – it would be offered Down under.

A spokesperson for Toyota in Japan has been contacted, and this story will be updated if more information becomes available.

Stay tuned to Drive for all the latest.