Toyota’s decision to introduce a manual transmission option for the GR Supra in mid-2023 has paid off, with the three-pedal variant gaining traction among enthusiasts. In 2024, 65% of all Supras sold in the U.S. featured a manual gearbox, up significantly from the 43% take rate in 2023. While the numbers remain relatively small—2,615 Supras were sold in the U.S. in 2024, with 1,700 being manuals—the shift signals a growing appetite for more engaging driving experiences.
The increased manual adoption coincides with changes to the Supra lineup. Toyota phased out the automatic-only, four-cylinder base model partway through 2024, potentially influencing the manual take rate. With the entry-level Supra no longer available, buyers seeking a purist driving experience gravitated toward the manual-equipped, six-cylinder models.
GR Supra Manual Success Mirrors Broader Trends
The GR Supra wasn’t Toyota’s only sports car to see strong manual sales. The GR86, a staple among driving purists, saw 53% of its 11,426 units sold with a manual transmission, equating to 6,056 vehicles. Even the manual Toyota Tacoma pickup made its mark, with 3,856 units accounting for 2% of the model’s total sales of 192,813.
These numbers reflect a broader trend: while manuals may be a niche choice, they hold a strong appeal for a dedicated subset of drivers.
Future of the GR Supra and Manual Enthusiasm
Toyota has yet to reveal its plans for the Supra in the U.S., but the model’s mechanical twin, the BMW Z4, is confirmed to end production soon. The recent launch of the “Final Edition” Supra in Japan and Europe, featuring increased power, upgraded suspension, and a six-speed manual as standard, has fueled speculation about the Supra’s next chapter.
Hints of a potential sixth-generation Supra—dubbed the Mk6—have fans hopeful for the model’s continuation, possibly with an even greater emphasis on driver-focused features.
As the industry shifts toward electrification, Toyota’s strong manual sales for the GR Supra, GR86, and Tacoma suggest there’s still a place for analogue driving experiences, even in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. For now, the GR Supra stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a clutch pedal and the joy of a hands-on connection between car and driver.
