For 2011 the Supra looks to become a possible Electric Vehicle based on the FT HS concept car. It will still have Toyota's reliability and will definitely employ some space age exterior styling with some major technological improvements. It is doubtful as to whether or not this model will see the light of day. But if it does, there will be plenty of people in line for it.
Full Preview 2011
Car enthusiasts are wondering when Toyota will officially announce its newest "21st century sports car", the 2011 Toyota Supra. There is still some question surrounding this sleek looking beauty. Will Toyota put into production a super fuel efficient model, with a gas/electric powertrain, based upon Toyota's latest concept car the hybrid FT-HS. There is certainly a strong case, considering Toyota's commitment to better environmental technology and the success of its own hybrid, the Prius.
Supra Power
Right now, Toyota is only talking about a hybrid powertrain for the FT-HS concept. But if put into production, it may also be offered with conventional V-6 and V-8 engines, both with lower power outputs and at cheaper price points. The 2010 Supra will most likely make use of a naturally-aspirated 3.7-litre V6 with rear wheel drive, and maybe even a twin-turbo version with 400 hp. Given the Supra's history with turbos and the current movement away from V-8s and towards boost -- that certainly could be a possibility. The hybrid power is also likely. Designers suggest that in a fuel-efficient future, a jolt of acceleration from an electric motor might become the equivalent of an injection of nitrous oxide into your gas-powered engine.
2011 Cabin Features
Inside the FT-HS concept is a hubless steering wheel with built-in paddle-shifters (made possible by drive-by-wire technology) and touch-sensitive controls. The FT-HS uses a carbon-fiber beam to divide the cockpit left and right. Toyota says it enhances structural rigidity, but it also lends what designers call a "skeletal" appearance. Another novelty is a power-operated carbon/Kevlar roof panel that pivots to stow in the rear-seat area. Nodding to Ferrari and Porsche are a see-through hood panel to show off the front-mounted engine and a rear spoiler that powers up at higher speeds to enhance stability. The spoiler idea would almost certainly survive on a new Supra, but the other features seem questionable because of cost and/or practicality.
Toyota Supra Design
The 2011 Supra will take design elements from current models, like Camry, but also from the FT-HS concept car that made its debut last year at the Detroit Auto Show. The headlights seem too ambiguously shaped for Toyota's top tier sports car, but there are some interesting details like the double bubble canopy (reminiscent of the FD RX-7) and front end air ducts and rear fender/hip lines that seem an homage to the last generation Supra.
Three years ago, Toyota had investigated the Nissan 350Z thoroughly and decided it was time to offer an alternative Toyota. Toyota knows it must offer more appealing and fun to drive models. Toyota hasn't had a sports car since the Supra was dropped in 1997. And there is plenty of upcoming competition: Nissan is rumored to be updating their Z to a 370Z an Hyundai's Genesis sedan made its debut in New York and should have very similar specs to the Supra. So, how much will the Supra cost? The old Supra retailed for about $44,000. The "mid-price sports/GT" description and sophisticated hybrid-drive hardware suggests the 2010 Toyota Supra would be priced well above the Nissan 350Z, perhaps close to the $70,000 high-performance Corvette Z06. In all reality concepts are expected to have way-out features--it's all about the buzz. But the likelihood that the FT-HS could be adapted for market purpose and be given the Supra badge is likely. The 2011 Toyota Supra's release date is unclear at the moment, it's possible to be by the end of 2010, but could also be delayed until 2011. Whenever the Supra is released, it is likely that Toyota fans waiting for the next sports car will be pleased.
