Lexus Might Have Its Own Variant Of Toyota GR's Upcoming Sports Coupe | Carscoops

      A recent rumor from Japan indicates that the next-generation Toyota Supra might have a Lexus counterpart.

      This new Lexus variant could serve as a replacement for the RC coupe and the aging LC grand tourer.

      The upcoming Supra is anticipated to feature a hybrid turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

      The GR Supra is approaching the conclusion of its seven-year lifecycle, but there’s no need for concern, as Toyota representatives have confirmed that a new generation is forthcoming. While there’s much speculation regarding its potential features, including a hybrid powertrain, some intriguing—and perhaps not entirely surprising—news has emerged from Japan.

      It appears that a new Lexus model might be developed alongside the next Supra, which could bring an exciting addition to the brand’s luxury sports car segment.

      Moreover, Toyota’s luxury division may be seeking to fill the gap left by the soon-to-be-retired RC and the old LC grand tourer, which has been around since 2017. This could provide an ideal moment for a new, sleek, Supra-sized coupe to emerge. We’re envisioning a two-door design, a 2+2 seating arrangement, and all the performance and elegance expected from a vehicle in this category.

      Not The First Supra-Based Lexus

      If these rumors from the Japanese media outlet Best Car prove accurate, it wouldn’t be the first occasion Lexus has drawn inspiration from the Supra’s design. In the early '90s, the A80 Supra shared its framework with the Toyota Soarer and the Lexus SC, both considered grand tourers. It will be interesting to see if the new model revives the SC name or opts for a fresh identity, leaving the past behind.

      Although it’s premature to explore design specifics, the Lexus version would likely showcase a unique aesthetic to distinguish it from the Supra. It might incorporate some stylistic elements from the Electrified Sport Concept unveiled in 2021 but with more subtle proportions and modern features. Since it will bear the Lexus badge, it will also need to provide more luxury than its Toyota counterpart to merit the higher price.

      Hybrid Setup Seems Logical – Unless They Choose Mazda’s Six

      The latest information suggests the next Supra will abandon its BMW Z4-based platform in favor of a new Japanese alternative. Regarding the powertrain, the most probable choice is Toyota’s new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a self-charging hybrid system.

      Given Toyota’s rich history with hybrid technology, this appears to be a logical decision. Power will likely be delivered to the rear wheels via an eight-speed or ten-speed automatic transmission, potentially accompanied by a carbon fiber propeller shaft for added effectiveness.

      As for the Lexus variant, it can be assumed it will be nearly identical to the Toyota under the hood, although engineers might adjust the suspension for a more grand tourer-like ride.

      There’s also a speculation regarding Toyota potentially utilizing a Mazda-sourced inline-six engine for the next Supra. Some reports even hinted that Mazda could develop a Supra-based vehicle as a spiritual successor to the discontinued RX-7. However, this information seems rather speculative. The rumor mill regarding future models is notoriously unpredictable, so it is reasonable to approach this with caution.

      When Can We Expect the Next Supra?

      Toyota has not provided a definitive timeline for the unveiling of the next-generation Supra, but some industry insiders estimate that it could debut in 2026 or 2027. If that is accurate, a Lexus variant may soon follow.

      If statements from Toyota’s North American executives are to be taken at face value, the interval between the current and next-generation models should not match the 17-year gap between the fourth and fifth generations, meaning we won’t have to wait too long to learn more.