Toyota’s Supra Taking Shape As A Hybrid Nissan Z-Fighter?

[Oracle of Delphi]

"Delicious rumors of a new Toyota Supra continue to make the rounds in Tokyo. Word on the street is that Toyota is planning two versions, using the recent FT-HS North American International Auto Show concept as a template."

The main version will receive an improved version of the 3.5-liter V-6 from the IS350, producing 330 brake horsepower, and will be aimed fair and square at the next Nissan 350Z.

However, if the grapevine is correct, Toyota will also do a V-6 hybrid using a ramped-up version of the GS450h powertrain on a shortened rear-drive platform. This one would pack 400 bhp.

Few would doubt that the hybrid variant is really the car Toyota wants to build, because it’ll be something new, fast, clean and green in the sports coupe segment, and a new image builder. But the 3.5-liter, which will be at once lighter, more affordable, and less complex than the techno-heavy hybrid will be the main commercial player.

Article Continues: http://news.windingroad.com/concept-cars/j...ssan-z-fighter/

Edited May 28, 2007 by Pontiac Custom-S

[bobo]

Toyota is sure taking its sweet time on a new Supra. On the other hand, it's not as if the company really needs a halo car to perk up sales. But it is a hole in their lineup in their quest for worldwide domination, and that's got to bother them.