Toyota's renowned Supra, a nameplate steeped in automotive history, is on the cusp of a significant overhaul. Anticipated for release in late 2027, the next iteration of this iconic sports car is poised to depart from its current BMW-sourced powertrains, marking a new chapter of engineering independence for Toyota. Industry insights suggest a shift towards a hybrid-assisted four-cylinder engine, designed to deliver impressive performance while emphasizing efficiency and a more agile driving experience. This strategic move aims to address past criticisms regarding external collaborations and reinforce the Supra's distinct identity within Toyota's performance lineup, despite a potential reduction in cylinder count that may initially surprise enthusiasts.

The current Supra, known as the J29/DB, made its celebrated return in 2019, nearly two decades after the A80's production ceased due to emission regulations. Its revival was made financially viable through a collaborative effort with BMW, sharing architectural elements and engine components with the BMW Z4. However, this partnership is not expected to extend beyond 2026 for the existing models. Consequently, Toyota is preparing to forge its own path for the sixth-generation Supra, with reports from Japanese automotive publications like 'Best Car' indicating that the automaker is already rigorously testing prototypes equipped with in-house Toyota powerplants.

A primary candidate for the new Supra's heart is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with hybrid technology. This configuration is projected to produce approximately 400 horsepower. This output would closely match or even exceed the 382 horsepower generated by the current U.S.-spec GR Supra Final Edition's B58 straight-six engine. Toyota has openly hinted at a future for hybrid sports cars, making this direction a logical progression. The specific four-cylinder engine in question is believed to be the high-performance G20E, a robust unit that has already demonstrated its capability in other Toyota concepts, such as the GR Yaris M, where it delivered around 435 horsepower. Engineers suggest that with a larger turbocharger, this engine could easily achieve over 600 horsepower, and its design allows for significant bore expansion, ensuring ample power potential.

While the four-cylinder hybrid is the leading contender, whispers of a six-cylinder option, possibly sourced from Mazda, have also circulated. This potential collaboration with Mazda, already partnering with Toyota on various projects including electric vehicles, could see a straight-six engine similar to the e-SkyActiv G mild-hybrid powertrain found in the Mazda CX-70. However, the four-cylinder variant is increasingly favored for its reduced mass, enhanced agility, and superior fuel economy. Despite the emotional attachment many enthusiasts have to higher cylinder counts, the prevailing trend in the automotive industry points towards more efficient, albeit smaller, powertrains. This internal development not only aligns with modern environmental regulations but also allows Toyota to reclaim full ownership of the Supra's engineering, addressing a key point of contention for some purists of the current model.

The automotive landscape has seen similar transitions before; the R35 GT-R faced initial dissent for not retaining a straight-six, and the current GR Supra drew criticism for its BMW underpinnings. The upcoming Supra, with its potential hybrid four-cylinder setup, will undoubtedly face scrutiny. However, if performance figures remain strong and the driving dynamics are enhanced, these changes could be accepted, particularly if Toyota manages to position the four-cylinder Supra as a more accessible, yet still exhilarating, counterpoint to higher-tier performance vehicles. This strategic evolution emphasizes Toyota's commitment to innovation and independence in its high-performance vehicle division.