Toyota GR 86 (ZN8)

Almost a decade ago, Toyota roars back to the sports car business with the 86, a rear-wheel-drive compact sports car built in collaboration with Subaru. It became one of the most popular Japanese sports cars ever made and it landed a role as the hero car from MF GHOST, a comic book made by the same man who did Initial D. It really is the spiritual successor to the legendary Sprinter Trueno AE86. It's the Reiwa era and Toyota's ready for the new normal with an all-new model now called GR 86.

2022 Toyota GR 86

Priced at 2,799,000 Japanese Yen (around $28,000), the new Toyota GR 86 proudly carries over where its predecessor left off while still delivering the same accessible dynamics coveted by speedo boys worldwide. Although it works just like its Subaru twin, the BRZ, it's cheaper to own than its Subaru equivalent, which is surprisingly flinching for speedo boys looking for a reasonably fast sportscar on a budget.

2022 Toyota GR 86

Like the new Subaru BRZ, the Toyota GR 86 features a dramatic exterior design that is sharper-looking than the previous model it replaces, giving speedo boys plenty of reasons to get tempted to drive one and intoxicated by the accessible dynamics this street hero possesses.

2022 Toyota GR 86 interior

The GR 86's new interior is all about being driver-focused and race-inspired, just as what speedo boys wanted for a sportscar like this. Of course, like the previous model, it's got two rear seats which are deemed challenging to squeeze into, and ample boot space for some grocery trips to resupply your man cave. Whatever floats their boats, the GR 86 is all about getting ready for another weekend at the car meet.

2022 Toyota GR 86

The GR 86 utilizes the improved version of its signature platform used by its predecessor. While the new model is similarly sized compared to the old one, the sport-tuned suspension and chassis have been updated to make it more enjoyable to drive than the previous model. On the road and on the track, the new GR 86 is all about stretching itself to entertain its drivers with its rewarding dynamics which are deemed fun for all levels. Great one, Toyota.

Under the hood, the flat-four boxer engine got its size increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in a slightly improved power output of 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It has a WLTC-calculated fuel economy of 12km/L for the 6-speed manual variant and 11.8km/L for the 6-speed AT variant.

Just like the new BRZ, automatic variants of the GR 86 feature Driver Assist Technology, consisting of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support. Manual variants don't get one, of course.

The arrival of the Toyota GR 86 shows that sports cars can still shine in the new normal. With its new design, interior, performance, and dynamics, the reborn Hachiroku promises to be a must-have for speedo boys who are driving like there's no tomorrow because, pretty soon, there won't be. Thanks to Japan's imminent move to eradicate ICE-powered cars, the Hachiroku of the Reiwa era would be the last one speedo boys will ever experience.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Maserati MC20

From its humble beginnings, Maserati is known for making the most iconic racing machines and sportscars for gentlemen who prefer something quintessential and Italian in every way but not Ferrari or Lamborghini. Today's Maserati is nothing more than an Italian BMW because the current lineup consists of the Ghibli and Quattroporte saloons and the Levante SUV. Disagreed, Maserati prepares for its renaissance with the arrival of its brand-new sportscar called the MC20, the sportscar speedo boys can't wait to get their hands on it.

2021 Maserati MC20

2021 Maserati MC20

Priced at 210,000 Euros, the MC20 marks the true beginning of the Maserati renaissance and a true return to form where beauty and performance are what Maserati does best.

The story begins with the styling and this is where the MC20 showcases its critical side from every angle. Although mistaken for a lightweight sportscar like the Lotus Evora, the Maserati MC20's styling draws inspiration from the ancient MC12, the comfortable side of the Ferrari Enzo from two decades ago. With looks that can softly kill, the MC20's aerodynamics are beyond expectations.

Step inside the interior and you are greeted with its driver-focused cockpit that gives drivers an impression of driving a racing car on the track. Although track-focused in spirit, it's a well-tailored accessory every gentleman should have, especially when it packs a premium sound system and a Maserati Connect feature for their daily driving commodities. That sounds flashy and cheesy but this is all in the experience of being a high-value Italian sportscar that separates the men from the boys.

Speaking of separating the men from the boys, the main highlight of the MC20 is its performance and this is something everybody's feeling jealous of, wishing they want to drive one someday. Unlike most sportscars donning fancy hybrid tech, the MC20's powertrain is neo-20th-century stuff. It's a brand new 3.0L 6-cylinder twin-turbo Nettuno engine bolted to the middle at 90 degrees. It produces 630PS of power and 730Nm of torque and while mated to an 8-speed DCT, the MC20 can sprint from 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and can go all the way to 325kph. This is a supercar performance the Italians can take pride in.

Aside from its supercar performance, the MC20's dynamics are worth driving for because underneath, it features a double-wishbone suspension system with active shock absorbers. They can really behave depending on which driving mode you're on; be it on WET, SPORT, CORSA, or on ESC OFF Mode.

Driving in CORSA Mode, the MC20's almost behaving like a true racing car on the track, but when the driver engaged ESC OFF Mode, this is where you'll need your adult diapers because, in this mode, the MC20's going all-out dynamic and it's going to be as crazy as trying to beat your favorite song on the EXPERT difficulty setting. It's struggling at first but when you are familiarized with it, the MC20 is a supercar you can't stop until you are fully satisfied with its result.

Also on the dynamics side, the MC20 really is a lightweight supercar from the start because underneath, it features a composite material monocoque soaked in carbon fiber, and combined with its lightweight materials assembled specifically for this car, it weighs one and a half tons.

The MC20 really marks the new beginning for Maserati and as the world is struggling with the new normal, where crossovers are superheroes, this is the antithesis every car enthusiast needs. With its strikingly great styling, driver-focused interior, and performance that is quintessentially Italian, the MC20 will soon be your newest favorite Italian supercar for the time being.

Photo: Maserati

Subaru BRZ ZD8

A decade ago, Subaru and Toyota collaborated on a new rear-wheel-drive sportscar project that gave birth to the two icons; the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ. The Toyota side is a spiritual rebirth of the iconic AE86 Sprinter Trueno and Corolla Levin while the Subaru side is, let's just say, a sacrilege to Subaru's image as an AWD specialist and treason to Subaru's heritage if you may. It's the Reiwa era and the era of a new normal we live in and as Toyota and Subaru unveiled their new versions, the second-generation BRZ goes first.

2022 Subaru BRZ

With prices start at 3,080,000 Japanese yen plus additional costs, the second-generation Subaru BRZ joins the list of Reiwa era Japanese sportscars spearheaded by Toyota's GR Supra and it's proof that in the midst of the new normal, Japan still makes sports cars speedo boys will enjoy.

2022 Subaru BRZ

Although the new model is similarly sized compared to its predecessor, thanks to the fact that it uses an improved version of its signature platform instead of the SGP that today's Subarus don, the new styling really means business for the second-generation BRZ. From its dramatic new front design to its sharp new rear angle, every way you look at the new model is quintessential and you'll have plenty of reasons to swap your old BRZ for the new one. Tempted? Well, you should be.

2022 Subaru BRZ interior

The new interior is all about being driver-focused and race-inspired especially when you can't get enough toying with the switches in the dashboard as well as its dramatic speedo that is going to be the target of speedo boys who are busy doing speedo boy stuff while driving at the Wangan expressway. Of course, like the previous model, it's got two rear seats which are deemed to be difficult to squeeze into, and some room in the back for some grocery trips to resupply your man cave. Either way, the new interior is one of the many reasons you can't get enough with the new BRZ.

2022 Subaru BRZ

A new generation calls for a new engine and for the second-generation BRZ, the size of its BOXER D-4S engine has been increased from 2.0L to 2.4L. As a result, the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It has a WLTC-calculated fuel economy of 12km/L for the 6-speed manual variant and 11.8km/L for the 6-speed AT variant.

Apart from the added power from its new FA24 engine, the new BRZ features an upgraded version of its signature platform which makes it more huggable on the road and more rigid compared to the previous model. They have improved the suspension and chassis to make it more fun to drive than the previous model and it's got better traction as well.

The automatic variants of the second-generation BRZ feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support. Manual variants don't get one but who cares?

The second-generation Subaru BRZ is ready to pick up where the previous BRZ left off and thanks to its improved dynamics, new styling, new interior, and the FA24 engine, this is going to be the BRZ speedo boys will never forget and with the imminent doom to the internal combustion engine, the BRZ of the Reiwa era is one on the bucket list and speedo boys are ready to spend their hard-earned cash buying this one.

Available colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Ignition Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and WR Blue Pearl.

Photo: Subaru

Porsche 911 992 GT3

The long-awaited arrival of the 911 992 GT3 means fanfare for the speedo boys wishing to have a real, no-nonsense sports car with a real, no-nonsense performance speedo boys will get hooked for more. Let's get to know the return of Porsche's track toy hero and why we are all jealous to drive one.

2022 Porsche 911 GT3

With an introductory price of 170,969 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new 911 GT3 is the finest example of a real, no-nonsense sports car that caters to all needs speedo boys demand and for this new model, it's got everything; lightweight design, a choice of a manual or PDK, and the same spartan driving manners carried from its predecessors. This is the one for them.

Checking out on the design, the 911 GT3 is similar to the normal 911 992 but the aero upgrades look like it got injected by some kind of performance-enhancing drug, leaving its lightweight design a muscular stance worth punching to the face. While aerodynamics is king for the GT3, there's something fishy about the front design because it looks like a Nissan Fairlady Z Z33 that has been modified at the Opera House. The Opera Z33 RS, remember? Well, you get the point.

On the inside, it works like a normal 911 but it's got sports seats and some rollbars on it, meaning it's all work and all play on the road and on the track if you know what I mean.

Unlike most of the turbocharged 911 models, from normal to Turbo, the 911 GT3 prefers to go old-school with the naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine that produces 510PS of power and 470Nm of torque, which is nice, and it can be mated to either a speedo boy favorite 6-speed MT or a quick 7-speed PDK, which lets the GT3 accelerate from 0-100kph in 3.4 seconds, which is slightly quicker than the previous model.

The 911 GT3 is famed for its spartan driving manners and the new model features improved dynamics that will deliver more combos than any of your favorite female fighters from your favorite fighting game. It hurts but it pays to get hurt while getting hooked by its improved dynamics. It's got a double-wishbone front axle for the first time in a sports car like this, allowing the 911 GT3 to behave like a racecar it draws inspiration from. It also has a five-link rear axle, larger brakes, and extensive use of lightweight materials, among many others. With such improvements, it's no wonder why the new model lapped the monstrous Nurburgring Nordschleife in 6:59.927 minutes, which is an improvement from the previous GT3.

And there you have it. The all-new 911 GT3 is the real, no-nonsense Porsche that speedo boys are ready and willing to drive without explanations and the way it goes makes us jealous to drive one someday.

Photo: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

BMW M3 (G80) and M4 (G82)

Well, it had to happen. After so many complaints from speedo boys ranting about the terrifying vertical kidney grille slapped on the second-generation 4-Series' face and feared that the next M3 and M4 could get the same treatment as the one mentioned, the new generation BMW M3 sedan and M4 coupe have arrived and yes, it dons the terrifying vertical kidney grille that had most speedo boys complaining. So, behind the terrifying grille, what's it feels like to be with the new model?

2022 BMW M4

2022 BMW M3

The new BMW M3 sedan and M4 coupe have arrived with the terrifying vertical kidney grille slapped on the front, the kind of grille most speedo boys are complaining about, probably because our favorite German luxury car maker's gone progressive in every way, but behind the grille, the new models featured reworked dynamics, improved performance, cutting-edge tech, and more, keeping in tune with BMW's motorsport knowhow as well as...the times.

Of course, as speedo boys keep complaining about the massive vertical grille on the face, there's more to this design that polarizes them. On the interior, it still operates and feels just like their normal equivalents, apart from the annoying but clever BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that works like your Amazon Alexa device in every way or so but since they're potent versions of the 3-Series sedan and 4-Series coupe, you are greeted by the M-specific treatments that differentiate them such as its sports seats, buttons, and some extras. The carbon fiber trim's a bit tacky by the way but being tacky is what these new models do best.

Under the hood, the new models are armed with the 3.0L twin-turbo six-cylinder engine that can be mated to either a no-nonsense 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic gearbox if you're into the more powerful Competition variant with 510PS of power, 650Nm of torque, and a 0-100kph time of 3.9 seconds. As speedo boys complained about the looks but went to buy one anyway, looks like the less powerful base variant with the manual gearbox is the best pick because speedo boys love sports cars with a manual gearbox. Hey, the one with the manual gearbox can be so much more fun to drive than the new Toyota GR Supra, which has less power and no manual. Cue the raspberry sound effects, boys.

While the performance is somewhat rewarding for speedo boys who didn't bother about its controversial looks, the new M3 and M4 are getting more fun to drive than their predecessors. That's because they have updated its suspension and chassis setup to make it wider, lower, more rigid, and more enjoyable to drive than the previous models. There are also clever bits as well such as the M Dynamic Mode on the stability control, updated TCS, M Drive Professional system with M Traction Control, and more, giving you more ways to get intoxicated by its addictive dynamics that made you want to drive for more.

In standard rear-wheel drive specs, the new M3 and M4 really show some vitality through the corners and when you try oversteering it, you should be just fine. Speedo boys really dig the ones with rear-wheel drive configuration but with the all-wheel-drive variants arriving later, there's so much to get hooked with the new models because, for those who have experience with the all-wheel-drive M5, you can expect near-similar results with these two.

The case of "bad plus good equals better for everyone" could be the ideal summary for the new M3 and M4 because with the design that attracts so much heat from complaining speedo boys, the improved performance and dynamics, as well as the manual gearbox, are what made them good. Think about it, if you still complaining about the looks, why are you driving one?

Photo: BMW

Ferrari Roma vs. Ferrari Portofino M

Ferrari's newest grand tourer, the Roma, is unlike any other Ferrari we are familiar with because most Ferraris are born for racetracks, the Roma, like its Portofino brother, prefers to have a laid-back attitude because it likes to be enjoyed on the road rather on the track or is it?

So, what is the Ferrari Roma? For less than 200K, this is the least expensive Ferrari you can buy, making it a hard bargain for the rich speedo boys looking for a Ferrari to begin with.

Unlike most Ferraris that prefer to look like racecars, the Roma features a more contemporary styling that blends passion with drama the Italian way and there's no judgment for that. When you take it for a spin around city centers, the Roma is a worthy feature attraction that gets all the attention it deserves like most expensive sportscars do in their daily life.

The interior, meanwhile, is a big shock because this is the first time a Ferrari has gone the tall screen approach like most vehicles today, and while it sports familiar Ferrari interior items such as the display near the glove compartment and the complicated steering wheel like most Ferraris had, the Roma comes with a super cool car key in the shape of the Ferrari badge. You insert it and you're in charge. That's it.

Unlike most Ferraris, the Roma runs on a brand new powertrain consisting of a front-mid-engined 4.0L Turbocharged V8 engine producing 620PS of power and 760Nm of torque and while mated to a new 8-speed DCT as seen on the SF90, it can go from 0-100kph in three and a half seconds and onwards to over 320kph. That's quicker than its main foe, the Aston Martin Vantage, by a long shot.

Apart from the performance it delivers, the Roma is a different kind of Ferrari that puts the priority on the road first rather at the track because of its road-focused suspension and chassis setup that sets itself apart from the other relatives but being a Ferrari, it's got a lot of race-derived tech on it, meaning that even if it's prioritized to feel at home on the road, it's worth addictive to drive and you can spend lots of moments toying around with the Roma all day.

While it was known to be the Ferrari that likes to be enjoyed on the road, some might say that the Roma is no doubt one of the best grand tourers made in this era but the question is, would you like it more than the open-top Portofino?

I just said Portofino because the open-top Ferrari we are all familiar with now comes with an updated version called the Portofino M, the improved version of Ferrari's open-top grand tourer that tries to question the Roma's authority.

Although it's priced over ten grand more than the Roma, the improved Portofino picks up where the previous Portofino left off but with some revised styling to match it as well as the new, more complicated, steering wheel as seen on the Roma on the inside, among many other updates in store for the Portofino M.

Like the Roma, the Portofino M's armed with the 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine produces 620PS of power and 760Nm of torque and is mated to the 8-speed DCT. Although it weighs more than the Roma, the Portofino M's performance matches the Roma's, meaning it can go from 0-100kph in three and a half seconds and onwards to over 320kph. It's quicker than the old Portofino, of course.

In the past, I said that the Ferrari Portofino truly defies expectations of what a grand tourer should be and in Ferrari's case, be it for pleasure-seeking or for going all-out. The M, meanwhile, is the same but better because the dynamics are even more breathable and more enjoyable to drive than the old one. It's got the new Side Slip Control 6.0 as seen on the Roma as well, meaning that even if its prioritized to feel at home on the road, it's worth addictive to drive, just like the Roma.

So, there we are; the Roma and the Portofino M. They may be road-focused grand tourers but they behave just like a true Ferrari, and looks like all bets are off with these newest grand tourers offered by the Prancing Horse. This is serious stuff and they really mean it.

Photo: Ferrari

BMW 4-Series G22

The second-generation BMW 4-Series has arrived and with the huge kidney grille that dominated its looks, speedo boys have around the world are lamenting just what happened to BMW today just because they're spawned one of the most controversially-designed cars in ages. Let's have a look.

Priced at less than 46K euros, the second-generation BMW 4-Series Coupe is the car that got the whole world on fire because of the front face that draws flak from speedo boys everywhere. The question is why? It all began when BMW presented the preview of the second-generation 4er back in the 2019 IAA in the form of the 4 Concept. The reaction? The massively tall kidney grilles, BMW says it harks back from the legendary 328 and 3.0 CSI, drawing flak from the motoring public and feared that it might apply not just in production form but also in the next M3/M4 as well.

Well, the damage is done and with the front face stirred an angry mob of speedo boys, looks like the new 4-Series is in for a long slob. Yes, BMW is now living in an era of big grilles speedo boys call it nonsense. Besides, our favorite German luxury brand has turned left and embraced progress. Get it? They prefer progressivism over conservatism that championed speedo boys in the past. 

Speaking of progress, while everybody's lamenting over the new 4-Series' exterior design, the interior still works like every BMW does. It's a serious sports car but it's got tons of cool gadgets to toy with especially the annoying voice control that your camera-toting mate will find it too much to bear. To anyone who has experience with past BMW coupes, living inside can be either good or bad because the 4-Series can seat up to four people inside, and yes, boot space fit for your groceries or trips to the hotel so it is good.

One said "bad plus good equals better for everyone", which means that despite the bad looks, the new 4-Series features improved performance and dynamics that are beyond good. Under the hood, you have a choice of either a 2.0L petrol, a 2.0L diesel (the one to avoid since this is Europe today), and then this; the 374PS 3.0L 6-cylinder turbocharged engine from the range-topper M440i xDrive variant. All variants are mated to an 8-speed Steptronic as standard as well as the micro-hybrid nonsense as well.

Performance aside, the new 4-Series drives better than the old model because of its low center of gravity, improved dynamics, sport-tuned chassis and suspension setup, and others. In its normal rear-wheel-drive guise, the new 4-Series still works like a real BMW most speedo boys adorned, but with xDrive on the M440i, expect punchlines that will get you hooked for more.

Having satisfied with the dynamics this new model possesses, the new 4-Series features a wide array of driver assistance systems that can scare away even the most frisky of speedo boys behind the wheel. The one with the Driving Assistant and Active Cruise Control is worth noticeable but the Driving Assistant Professional is what scared speedo boys the most because it comes with the most advanced autonomous driving tech ever equipped in a car like this.

Bad styling, good interior, good performance, and good tech equals better for almost everyone. This is what the new 4-Series sums up really good and while the monstrously tall kidney grille is suicidal in the eyes of speedo boys, it drives like a real BMW and looks like it's on a roll now.

Photo: BMW

Jaguar F-Type (2021 minor change)

The Jaguar sportscar every speedo boy fell in love with since the beginning, the F-Type range, has been given an extensive minor change for 2021 model year and it's packed with extensive updates that will keep them longing for more. What's it all about the latest minor change for these lightweight luxury cruisers?

With prices start at 54,510 Pounds plus additional costs, the heavily facelifted Jaguar F-Type, in coupe and convertible variants, is a bold statement as done by its new, sharp-looking, front face that looks like every other Jaguar in the family tree but either way, the bold new look makes the new F-Type even more attractive to have one in their garage as long as they don't make a big fuss about it.

While the heavily revised exterior design is something to fall in love with, the interior looks pretty much the same as last time except now the screen's gotten bigger and more high-definition compared to the previous model. Also, the instrumental panel's gotten even more digital, which is rather nice for a sports car but that high-tech enhancements somewhat spoils your driving experience.

With the loss of the manual gearbox is the most worrying fact about the new F-Type, the choice of engines are streamlined for your cherry-picking pleasure. It features a range of four, six, and eight-cylinder engines with the latter reserved for the R variant is the prime mate because the supercharged 5.0L V8 engine now produces 575PS of power and 700Nm of torque. That's more power than the Aston Martin Vantage of course and it sounds even more muscular as well, although the V8 models now come with the rather silent but odd Quiet Start feature that can be overriden when you engage Dynamic Mode on the driving modes. Anyway, with that muscular engine and the standard all-wheel drive system, it can do 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 186mph.

That acceleration really outpaces the ancient XKR-S by a long shot but whichever F-Type you're picking, the way it behaves has gotten even more enjoyable than ever because of its recalibrated dynamics as well as the revised Dynamic Stability Control system, new brakes, Torque Vectoring by Braking, and so much more. In its rear-wheel drive guise, it feels like you can enjoy it so much more but in its all-wheel drive guise, it feels like a lion crushing through the traps like a boss.

Could this be the best F-Type ever made despite the loss of the manual gearbox?

Photo: Jaguar Land Rover

Ferrari SF90 Stradale

The Ferrari F8 served as the swan song for the petrol-powered V8 hierarchy that its famous predecessors left their mark on the road and track and with the F8 already left its mark in Ferrari's V8-powered supercar history, a bold new chapter begins. Enter the SF90, Ferrari's most controversial supercar that uses most of the know-how from the LaFerrari to create a thoroughbred like no other.

2021 Ferrari SF90 Stradale

So, what's it all about this new Ferrari supercar that costs over 400K euros? First is the name; the SF90 name is derived from Scuderia Ferrari's nine-decade history in motorsport, meaning Ferrari wants to put all of its racing know-how into this PHEV supercar that uses most of its knowhow from the legendary LaFerrari hypercar.

Yes, because it uses most of the knowhow from the LaFerrari, the SF90 features a plug-in hybrid setup, a first for Ferrari, where the turbocharged F154 4.0L V8 engine, producing 780PS of power, is connected to three electric motors, two on the front axle and one between the engine and the 8-speed double-clutch gearbox, resulting to a monstrous 1,000PS of total power output that pushes the SF90 to a 0-100kph time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 340kph.

Apart from the performance it delivers, the SF90's dynamics are somewhat different in every way thanks to the fact that it's a four-wheel-drive supercar but this is no 918, ladies and gentlemen, because, unlike the one that I just said, the SF90 features some serious tech such as electronic Traction Control, brake-by-wire control, and torque vectoring. Couple these with some serious aerodynamics and its race-inspired chassis and suspension setup and the result is a near-fantastic experience that is about as thrilling as a Rated-M videogame. It's almost as good as the LaFerrari but without all the drama and it's easy to fall in love with this car the moment you set foot on this.

On the track, the SF90 really shows its vitriolic side but on the road, it feels so civilized and unlike the LaFerrari, you can drive it while using electricity only.

Style-wise, the SF90 is like a mini-me LaFerrari in the size of the F8 and the interior is all Ferrari for the driver getting inside. It works not just as a track toy but as a grand tourer full-stop. It's the best of both worlds and Ferrari has done a rather good job creating the SF90. As a matter of fact, everyone's getting anxious to drive one.

Photo: Ferrari

Chevrolet Corvette C8

The Chevrolet Corvette is known to be an American icon because it's the sports car that ultimately symbolizes American freedom like soybeans harvested from American farmlands or shale oil drilled from American wildlife. It's the icon that put America in the world of sports cars that are heavily dominated by the Europeans and as times changed, Chevrolet made a radical approach to their new generation Corvette and for this new model, it's no longer your Grandpa's Corvette anymore because it's now a bit more different than the Corvettes of yesteryears.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

That's because the all-new, eighth-generation Corvette, priced at 58,900 US Dollars plus additional costs, is now mid-engined and I know most Corvette purists know that making the Corvette mid-engine is a sacrilege and treason to its heritage but there is one very good reason why they made it mid-engined; fulfilling the dream envisioned by a certain expert who tried creating mid-engined prototypes for General Motors. Decades of hard work have resulted in the rise of General Motors' first mid-engined production car, which is the C8 Corvette, of course.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

But before explaining more about its new mid-engined proportions, let's observe the design first and by the looks of it, the new model is a bit like a mash-up between the Ferrari F430's front, the side view of the previous Corvette, and the rear view of the Chevrolet Corvette, giving it a more Frankenstein approach to the new model but despite that, I think it looks fantastic at all angles and the design is one of the many reasons the folks behind the new model wanted to make the Corvette great again, whatever that means.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette interior

2020 Chevrolet Corvette interior

On the interior, the new Corvette features a more spaceship-like approach and once inside, you feel like you're in control of some futuristic fighter ready for take-off. Although radical, the futuristic interior really shows its cool toys to play with such as the vertical climate controls mounted on the side that separates you and the driver, the ultra-thin air vents, the race-inspired steering wheel, the Performance Data Recorder, Bluetooth connectivity, 4G LTE, and more. Aside from that, the Corvette offers three different kinds of seats to choose from ranging from the basic GT1 seats to the high-end Competition Sport seats.

In its normal, hard-top guise, you can really take the roof off manually by getting out of the car, detaching its roof, and placing it on the trunk, which is now on the front in case you're forgetting something. But in the Convertible, you can close or open its first-ever retractable hardtop at the push of the button even while traveling at 30mph, simple as that.

2020 Chevrolet Corvette

Now we get to talk about the new model's midship conundrum and why it matters. Achieving the reality envisioned by the late Zora Arkus-Duntov, the father of the Corvette, the new mid-engine layout delivers rear weight bias and improved downforce because the windshield is now over the front wheels. Simple as that.

When you toy around with it, you will have the lasting impression of why the new Corvette, thanks to its mid-engine layout, behaves like a Ferrari F430 on so many levels, and because of its newly found dynamics, it's worth coming back for more even though it's more challenging and more dynamic to handle than the old one. You can really get hooked on this car all year long until you are fully satisfied with it and there's no turning back now once driven.

Powering the new Corvette is an all-new 6.2L LT2 V8 engine mounted in the middle, which produces up to 495HP of power and 470lb-ft of torque. In Stingray form, that is the most powerful engine ever made in this variant, and mating to this all-American V8 tour de force is a double-clutch gearbox, which is great but utterly dramatic of course.

For Z51 Performance Package variants, the Corvette comes with the brand new Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 which reads the road every millisecond and adapts in about 10 to 15 milliseconds. Couple that with the Driver Mode Selector and the result is a very intelligent sportscar that adapts to every road condition like a supercomputer. It can be comfortable in the city streets or downright dynamic on the track, this is how the new C8 Corvette rolls.

As I was saying, the new C8 Corvette Stingray starts at 58,900 US Dollars plus additional costs and it is available in both Coupe and Convertible. Like the Ford Mustang, the new C8 Corvette, for the first time, can be configured to RHD specifications, meaning its official distributors from Japan, the UK, and Australia are more than happy to sell one.

So, what can I say about the C8 Corvette? While it's treason to the Corvette history, as purists feared, because of its mid-engine layout, it's by far the best sports car ever to come out from America and those behind it sure know how to make a Corvette great again, whatever the reason.

Welcome to the new world order.

Photo: General Motors

Ford Mustang (6th Gen) Shelby GT500

The long-awaited return of the ultimate Mustang, the Shelby GT500, on the sixth-generation model, has the whole automotive world raving about because with all of the USDA Beef bulking up the current version of America's iconic muscle car, the all-new GT500 promises to be the ultimate GT500 ever made because of what lies underneath its reptilian skin.

2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

With prices start at a very expensive 72,900 US Dollars plus on road costs, the all-new Shelby GT500 is the ultimate GT500 ever made and from every angle, you can see why everyone's getting jealous on getting their hands on the ultimate road-going Ford car ever built not only because it's the most powerful Ford ever made but it's the most thrilling Ford to drive in an era where crossovers roam back and forth like zombies.

Yes, the GT500 is the ultimate road-going Ford car ever built because the 5.2L Supercharged Cross Plane Crank V8 engine produces a record-breaking 760hp of power output and 625ft-lb of torque, mated to a TREMEC 7-speed Dual Clutch gearbox, which is surprisingly modern for sportscar standards. 760 horsepower means that while it's not as powerful as the ancient-looking but mind-blowing Dodge Challenger Hellcat Redeye, the new GT500 is the most powerful Ford ever made. That's more powerful than the recent Ford GT!

With the power output more than enough to leave everyone driven to tears, the new GT500 is prepared to tear down the road and track with its reworked dynamics not reserved for rookies and debutantes because with such power and handling, you'll need to spend the rest of your lives mastering its bone-crushing performance before challenging it head on. Running on the more hard core Carbon Fiber Track Package, the new GT500 is a mind-blower on the track because with all the track-focused dynamics and the removal of rear seats, it's about as thrilling as a Hollywood action thriller in the cinema and by chasing down the Redeye and the ZL1 1LE on the track, you'll know that such dynamics the new GT500 possesses is the key of winning the race.

Ford has spent a lot of man hours perfecting the GT500 into the muscle car you're seeing it now. On the track, the raw power and dynamics demonstrates how challenging and mind-blowing the GT500 is. On the open road, it's all about getting the job done. And on the city streets, this muscle car is a real swag that can drive bystanders into tears, wishing they just want one.

Despite the outrageous pricing and the fact that it's not quick enough on the straights against a Dodge Challenger Redeye, the new GT500 is the ultimate Mustang for those who are man enough to take on the extremes and once driven in the beginning, you'll be forever smitten until you are fully satisfied.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

Porsche Cayenne Coupe

Porsche is one of the latest German carmakers to succumb to the coupe utility niche with the launch of the first-ever Cayenne Coupe, a coupe utility vehicle that offers the same blend of performance and utility from its normal Cayenne, now with the sloping roof line that can be somewhat surprising but annoying. Time to flip the "why card" over Porsche's first coupe utility vehicle that got the speedo boys noticed.

2020 Porsche Cayenne Coupe

With prices start at 83,711 Euros plus on road costs, the Cayenne Coupe is Porsche's entry to the coupe utility niche that  offers the same blend of performance and utility from its normal Cayenne, now with the sloping roof line. At first glance, it looks similar to the normal Cayenne but the Coupe offers signature features apart from its sloping roof line such as an adaptive rear spoiler. rear bench beneath the two seats, and a choice of two different roof styles.

Of course, you can expect the same high-tech interior stuff from the normal Cayenne but since this is the Coupe, it can only accomodate up to four people aboard. As a family car, the Cayenne Coupe is a tad pointless but for bringing out with your mates for a tailgating party, it works rather well, especially when it has boot space nearly identical to the normal Cayenne, meaning there's enough roof for a Coleman full of drinks and some snacks for the gang.

Under the hood, you can expect the same choice of engines as the normal Cayenne, with the Turbo carrying the 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine mated to an eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox, which produces 550HP of power and 770Nm of torque with 286 km/h of top speed.

The normal Cayenne's sportscar DNA in an SUV packaging has been slightly improved from the past generations when it first arrived years ago and with the coupe version, it still bears the same story. It balances the things that are right such as its improved dynamics and braking, with the things that are wrong such as understeering. Although it has very limited offroad capability like most crossovers today and too heavy for track days, it's not bad to drive on the road. As a matter of fact, why would you want your Cayenne Coupe to be a fit for all?

Anyway, while it's too complicating to answer, the Cayenne Coupe shows that Porsche has gone to different ends to make a coupe utility no one's asking and with current SUVs in the range such as the normal Cayenne and the Macan, this new addition shows the bleak side of Porsche's greatness.

Photo: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG

BMW M8

BMW's reborn 8-Series is nothing more than a 6-Series replacement and nothing more to expect on what is known to be the two-door equivalent of the G30 5-Series. With the first-ever BMW M8, this high-performance take on the reborn 8-Series uses some F90 M5 knowhow to create a high-performance sportscar that dances like an M5 and make some big statements to its grand touring opposition into thinking that this one's ready to mingle all night.

2020 BMW M8 Coupe

2020 BMW M8 Convertible

With prices starting at a very costly 125,700 Euros for the Coupe and 133,700 Euros for the Cabriolet plus on-road costs, the first-ever BMW M8 mimics the same experience as its four-door equivalent, the F90 BMW M5, while in a more self-centered two-door setting with some room on the back for your belongings because let's face it, some people are having a hard time squeezing through the back seats in a coupe but who cares?

Although the styling is reminiscent of the normal 8-Series with some more M goodness to make it look scary on the street scene, there's nothing scary about the way it goes because it still carries the same 4.4L V8 Twin Turbo engine as the F90 M5, meaning it sounds a bit muted by sportscar standards but despite its low-volume purr from its turbocharged V8 engine, it produces 625PS of power and 750Nm of torque in Competition spec and because it uses the same 8-speed automatic as the M5, it can get through 0 to 100kph in up to 3.2 seconds and electronically limited to 250kph or with an optional extra where it can be raised to 305kph. Now that is considerably fast for a BMW M car.

As some would say that because it's now a four-wheel drive car rather than a rear-wheel drive car like the old M6 it replaces, understeering is likely, and expect some muscle pains but no because like the M5, the M8's M xDrive comes with a setting where they can switch from four-wheel drive to two-wheel drive. It's like having two cars in one and thanks to its Active M Differential, the M8 feels as lively to drive as any grand tourer can get.

And like the M5, the M8 features so many settings toy around with such as the traction control setting, engine responsiveness, steering, gear settings, exhaust noises, and some comfortable bits where a gentleman driver should better leave it be while taking on a comfortable cruise like a real grand tourer. Shoddy.

The BMW M8 may be radically different than the M6 it replaces but like the F90 M5 it draws inspiration from, it feels so enjoyable to drive, comfortable to live in, and overall fun to drive on the road and track. You should really thank BMW for this new model for sure.

Photo: BMW AG

McLaren GT

McLaren has been wowed the modern supercar scene for almost a decade with the Sports Series, the Super Series, and the Ultimate Series. Now, the British supercar maker tries to rewrite the rules by creating their dedicated grand tourer that is more on comfort and more on manners, well almost. Say hello to the first ever McLaren GT, a grand touring McLaren made for casual driving in mind.

2020 McLaren GT

Priced at around 163,000 Pounds unless some optional extras from the pricelist will hike it further, the new McLaren GT is a serious super grand tourer that is all about refinement on the road rather than being a racy supercar with some F1 knowhow involved underneath it. 

Of course, most McLaren people said that they've already made a grand tourer in the form of the 570GT but the new GT serves as the replacement to the 570GT and judging by the customer feedback, the McLaren GT is taking shape with its perfect balance of style and performance suitable for the gentleman driver rather than the average speedo boy in the neighborhood.

Beginning with the styling, the exterior of the McLaren GT can be easily confused with the Ferrari F430 because the front looks like it of course, whereas the back of it is nothing much to say for sure. Despite that, the GT's styling fits rather well for its grand tourer status as well as the well-crafted interior and some luggage space suitable for the lifestyles of the rich and famous.

The McLaren GT is separate from every other McLaren supercar because it uses its own monocoque body structure developed specifically for this car. Not only a hundred kilograms lighter than its closest rival but it can accomodate up to 570 litres of boot space at both sides. Under the hood, the McLaren GT uses a specially-made 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine producing 620PS of power and 630Nm of torque. Mated to a 7-speed SSG transmissions, it can do 0-60mph in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 203mph. Not as fast as a Ferrari 812 but this is surprisingly quick for grand tourer standards.

Although the dynamics are focused solely for comfort in mind because the suspension, steering, and brakes are made specifically for this car, that doesn't stop drivers by taking it to a track like every super grand tourers do because why not? Not only it can enjoy some leisure trips on the road but it can do some laps on track even though it wasn't made to do so. It maybe a grand tourer but it's still a McLaren and you'll have plenty of reasons to fall in love with it.

It's easy to fall in love with the first-ever McLaren GT from start to finish because while it wasn't quick enough to beat any supercar on track, it's worth stimulating to drive on the open roads. McLaren really pulled off the grand touring stint after the 570GT experience years ago and now, we're getting jealous to have one.

Photo: McLaren Automotive

Polestar 1

Polestar has spun off from Volvo as a standalone brand much like what happened to DS Automobiles and Genesis and for their first outing since its independence, they've introduced us to a one of a kind PHEV grand tourer that made their heads turned with its unique blend of luxury, performance, and ecology, all into one clever masterpiece. It's called the Polestar 1 and it's time to flip the "why card" on Polestar's first vehicle since it spun off from Volvo.

2020 Polestar 1

Although Polestar gained independence from Volvo, their first-ever Polestar 1 still carries some Volvo design inside and out, probably because it was heavily influenced from the Volvo Coupe Concept from 2013, and because it has lots and lots of Volvo stuff on it, it's hard to say if Polestar did gained independence from Volvo by making a PHEV grand tourer that looks a lot like a Volvo but anyway, what's it all about the Polestar 1?

2020 Polestar 1

2020 Polestar 1 interior

The Polestar 1, the first of their kind, starts at a very expensive 1,352,000 Krona before taxes and fees included and because it was handcrafted at the Polestar Production Centre in Chengdu, China, depending on where you are living, that price can be jumped up and in the case of the USA, which is run by Mr. Tariff Man himself and thanks to the ongoing US-China trade war, the Polestar 1's price tag will surely double it by the time it gets there. Ouch.

Anyway, while we are not suppose to talk about the controversial pricing and the fact that is "Made in China", much like everything else around you, there's something special about the Polestar 1 despite the Volvo connection lurking through its Swedish-Chinese steel and that goes to the performance side where this PHEV GT coupe matters.

2020 Polestar 1

First off, the Polestar 1 is powered by a 341PS 2.0L twin-charged engine bolted to two electric motors and an integrated starter generator. Together, they produced an AMG-leveling 608PS of power and a meaty 1,000Nm of torque. That's Brooklands territory in PHEV standards and that sounds pretty cool and there's more about the Polestar 1's unique powertrain.

Thanks to its 34kWh battery packs, which is the largest at this moment in time, the Polestar 1's electric range is up to 150km, which is enough to get from your fancy home in Muntinlupa to the Ayala Greenfield Golf Course to play golf during weekends and then back home with some juice left for your trip to the office.

In terms of dynamics, the Polestar 1 features torque vectoring courtesy of its planetary gear sets from the electric motors and along with its highly sophisticated suspension and chassis setups made for a grand tourer like this, the Polestar 1 feels like it came from another world and despite being PHEV, driving one of these reminds you of the Holy Trinity that ruled the roads with its naked speed courtesy of its hybrid power built for performance rather than Prius-esque ecology. Of course, it may sound crude but ecology and performance is what the Polestar 1 excels best. Nearly perfect but very promising.

The Polestar 1, despite the Volvo connection even though Polestar spun off as a standalone brand of the Volvo Car Group, now run by China's Geely, shows that the new kid on the block has a very promising future. From its unique powertrain, ecology, performance, dynamics, and luxury, the Polestar 1 is worth the envy for everyone who wish to have one in their garage someday, if they have the funds to buy one online.

Photo: Polestar

Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante vs. McLaren 720S Spider

Last year, Aston Martin brought back the DBS as the balls-out, amped-up version of the luxurious DB11 that blends comfort and performance at the same pace and with the new Volante version, the DBS gets even better-looking with the roof down, meaning there's plenty of cruising to do with the most powerful open-top Aston Martin ever made.

2020 Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante

The 247,500 Pound Aston Martin DBS Superleggera Volante delivers the same excitement as the hardtop equivalent, only this time, with the top opened. Unlike the DB11 Volante, which is available only with the AMG-derived 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine, the new DBS Volante carries the same 725PS 5.2L V12 Twin Turbo engine as the hardtop equivalent and while it weighs slightly more than the hardtop equivalent, it still goes from 0-60mph in three and a half seconds and onwards to 211mph, which is surprisingly impressive in a car that blows its Vanquish Volante predecessor in hard water.

Unlike the coupe, the DBS Volante features numerous aerodynamic tweaks that differ from its hardtop equivalent because of the clear difference what happens when the roof is opened or closed and with that, the downforce is about 3kg less than the coupe but despite that, it is still as savage and lairy the coupe of course. It maybe a super grand tourer, it maybe quiet, and it maybe as classy as a woman in track suit doing zero gravity stuff but it is heavenly addicting to drive. You'll find plenty of reasons to enjoy the new open-top DBS any time you want.

The DBS Superleggera Volante is still a slice of heaven to drive even with the roof open but while this is all about heavenly shades of glory, the DBS Volante should better watch its back because in about a second, it might get yanked by a certain joker out of nowhere and there's one...

2019 McLaren 720S Spider

This is the new 720S Spider, the open-top version offers the same thrills as the hardtop equivalent, only with the roof opened. Although it is priced ten grand cheaper than the DBS, the 720S Spider will surely toy around the DBS for fun.

It carries the same 720PS 4.0L V8 Twin Turbo engine as the coupe but thanks to McLaren's skillful engineering, the weight has only gone up to 4%, meaning it can still do 0-60mph in almost three seconds and onwards to 212mph, just like its coupe equivalent.

Although different than the coupe in terms of performance and looks, the 720S Spider still behaves like a proper open-top hypercar. Still comes with the same high-tech wizardry as well, making the 720S Spider more of a toy rather than a car. It's like an iPhone for milky jokers but aside from being a claws-out, gung-ho, high-tech supercar, the 720S Spider can act like a grand tourer on its own right one switch at a time and like the coupe, the 720S Spider is an all-rounder, meaning it has all the speed, the comfort, the drift, and the space fit for a sportscar like this.

It's easy to fall in love with the joker than a little slice of heaven even though both of these cars were deemed to be challenging to get off the starting line. The DBS is very exciting to look at for a Super Grand Tourer, the 720S is all about a mentalist that delivers all the right stuff to entertain wealthy owners into driving one. These two British open-top sportscars may be in a different class but they can deliver the best driving experience drivers can't get enough of.

Photo: Aston Martin/McLaren Automotive

Ferrari F8 Tributo

From the 308 GTB to the 488 GTB, the lineage of V8-powered Ferraris has proven that despite being called the baby or the mid-child of the range, they can still upset through their V12-powered big brothers in terms of style and performance, and for this year, the Prancing Horse delivered their biggest salvo yet which is going to be the end of an era but a prelude to another new chapter. Let's get to know the ultimate V8 Ferrari known as the F8 Tributo.

Ferrari F8 Tributo

True to its name, the Ferrari F8 Tributo is a fitting tribute to all of the greatest V8-powered Ferraris in history from the 308 to the 488 because this is the ultimate midship V8 Ferrari to rule them all. It costs about 230K Euros and while the expensive price tag puts you in a difficult position, there's something special about Ferrari's last hurrah to the V8 bloodline.

For starters, they've retained the same 720PS 3.9L V8 Twin Turbo engine from the hardcore 488 Pista so with the F1-style double-clutch gearbox in place, it goes from 0-100kph in less than 3 seconds and onwards to 340kph. In other words, it can easily trump the Lamborghini Huracan Evo by a long shot but it can be easily spooked by Britain's V8 champ, the McLaren 720S. Both of them have similar performances but while the 720S is a proven joker on the road and the track, the F8 is something more of a precious muse on the run.

On a clean run, the beating of the turbocharged V8 engine is about as smooth as a grass whistle with thorns but when the turbos kicked in, the F8 completely tears time and space like an amped-up Millennium Falcon getting away from its hostiles. In other words, this supercar really rattles the minds of drivers with its swooping performance that will leave them breathless to the final lap.

Apart from the mind-blowing performance, the F8 is lighter and more aerodynamically efficient compared to the 488 GTB it replaces and it's armed with a cutting range of tech such as the improved Side Slip Angle Control and the Ferrari Dynamic Enhancer Plus, among many other improvements from the predecessor.

It managed to shed 0.5 seconds from the Pista when it went around the Fiorano and while the half-second feat is worth a surprise, the dramatic dynamics really put the F8 a class apart. It brakes dramatically, it handles dramatically, and above all, it's a dramatic supercar that drives as beautifully as the moonrise. There are no other words to describe this beauty, although the interior is much of an Achilles' Heel to some due to being a carryover from past models since the 458 as well as the Exige-esque rearview.

Despite its questionable faults, the F8 is a clear reminder that Ferrari's V8 engineering has reached its peak and as years pass by, the F8 will shine bright on the road and track through the very end.

Photo: Ferrari

Toyota GR Supra (3BA-DB82/22/42)

From the Celica XX to the last JZA80 Supra made from 1993 to 2002, the Toyota Supra has been one of the most dominant Japanese sports cars in history and after 17 years of disappearance, the Toyota Supra has finally returned with a world-class performance that sets the standards to the world's best sports cars. Now that it's finally arrived in the early days of the Reiwa era, it's time to have a roast on what's known as the first Reiwa era Toyota available now.

2020 Toyota GR Supra

2020 Toyota GR Supra

The revived Toyota sportscar, now called GR Supra, is made in collaboration with Toyota Gazoo Racing and BMW and the reason for this newly found collaboration is because this 4,900,000 Yen (2.35 million PhP) sportscar features the same components as the latest BMW Z4 G29 and they're both built at the Magna Steyr plant in Austria. Born in Austria, honed at Germany, sold in Japan and the rest of the world, it truly is a multilingual sportscar that caters the world's best roads in a snap but is it really worth the wait for Toyota enthusiasts worldwide?

Observing the design, the GR Supra draws inspiration from the FT-1 Concept and while this is very striking to look at, the lack of a massive rear wing like the one from the old JZA80 Supra is a bit of a letdown for hardcore Supra enthusiasts, therefore it's not fit to be in the next Fast and Furious movie and never will be because with Paul Walker gone, the JDM appearances in the franchise became scarce. Still, while this is a love-or-hate affair, the GR Supra is a very handsome head-turner that needs no introduction when it zooms by.

2020 Toyota GR Supra interior

2020 Toyota GR Supra interior

It's true that while they share the same mechanical bits, the GR Supra and the new BMW Z4 are different by their looks and the same thing goes to the interior, which is driver-focused indeed and rather clean to look at but a word of advice though that since this is a BMW underneath, the sat-nav is basically BMW's so there's no telling why a piece of German quirk has implanted into this Japanese quirk. Visibility issues? Well, while the front looks nice, the rear view is rather challenging to look probably because it has a standard rear view monitor that fums this habit, as they said.

2020 Toyota GR Supra

The GR Supra shares most of the engines from the BMW Z4, starting with the entry-level SZ variant with the 197PS 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine which is slightly less than the 86 but more fuel efficient compared to it because of its 13.1km/L combined fuel economy under WLTP standards. Not bad for a low-cost Supra that is heavier and more expensive than the Toyota 86. Also, the mid-range SZ-R's 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine has been pumped to around 258PS of power, making it a high-performance class car for the intermediate. And then, there's the range topping RZ with the 3.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo engine producing 340PS of power and 500Nm of torque. All of the engines are mated to an 8-speed Steptronic gearbox.

Little did you know that the RZ has a slightly quicker 0-100kph time than the BMW Z4 M40i?

Anyway, while we're done examining the BMW-derived engines, it's time to dig deeper to its performance and by comparison, the dynamics of the new Supra is slightly comparable to the BMW Z4 it was based on because the folks from Toyota wanted to behave differently so they fiddled with the double-joint spring strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension to make sure it doesn't feel like the BMW Z4 it was based on. Such difference, am I right? But still, with a rigid structure, low center of gravity, and perfect weight distribution, this really is as sharp as a Feather Blade, yet as delicate as calligraphy. Now this is very artistic for a world-class sportscar indeed and while it's not made to take on the Nissan GT-R and the Honda NSX, its shortness and lightness made this Eurasian quirk a step ahead of its game.

The GR Supra is made to be a premium grand tourer from the very start and it's surprisingly categorized as a Safety Support Car S Wide because of its standard active safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, automatic high beam, and road sign assist, among many others.

At the start of the day, getting to know the GR Supra is as easy as pie as it sounds and feels but at the end of the day, some people might have high regrets about this revived Toyota Supra and no, it's not about the BMW connection or the styling that doesn't hark back to the last Supra from the 90's. No. I'm talking about the GR Supra being a Gran Turismo exclusive car.

Ever since Porsche freed itself from EA exclusivity, their freedom to navigate through various racing games came with a great loss and that loss comes from Toyota and since then, no other racing games opened their doors to every singe Toyota road car in history. That's where GT SPORT came in and through time, no other car game has more Toyotas than GT SPORT and with the GR Supra arrived at GT SPORT, a lot of people are questioning about Toyota becoming Gran Turismo exclusive. While this is only a possibility, I have high regrets that I might really going to hate the GR Supra for being Gran Turismo exclusive and if the GR Supra being Gran Turismo exclusive, the boys of Top Gear will surely set this on fire just like what happened on the new Alpine A110, the Hoonigan boys will not welcome it to their garage, the Gumball 3000 will not let the GR Supra be part of the entry list, and their next Fast and Furious film will not feature the GR Supra, all because of it being a Gran Turismo exclusive car.

Unless Toyota renounced their Gran Turismo exclusivity, it's best to have a diminished relationship with the GR Supra and stick on with its Z4 relative or more expensive and fast sportscars than this. For now, I might put the GR Supra to the list of cars I don't want to have because of being a Gran Turismo only car aside from the Lexus LC500. That's one story I don't want to explain but I had to now that the GR Supra's arrived while car enthusiasts are still reeling from the wounds caused by Toyota being left out from most racing games rather than Gran Turismo.

Toyota should deserve better to become open again so their new GR Supra will be free to roam around the world with confidence rather than being restricted to being a Gran Turismo only car and that is the bottom line.

Available colors: White Blue Metallic, Ice Gray Metallic, Prominence Red, Deep Blue Metallic, Silver Metallic, Black Metallic, Lightning Yellow, and Matte Storm Gray Metallic.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation