The 2021 Toyota GR Supra 3.0 burns oil. Not a minor seep you discover at the 10,000-mile service — some owners are adding a quart every 800 to 1,500 miles. Toyota issued TSB T-TT-0642-21 in February 2021 for the problem, but the bulletin doesn't contain a repair procedure. It tells dealers how to document the issue and collect data. Some 2021 owners received engine replacements under warranty. Others are still working through it.
The 2020 Supra — with 47 fewer horsepower and different pistons — has no documented oil consumption pattern. The 2022 is better, though some complaints persist. The 2023 is the cleanest generation-specific pick.
Same badge, same basic shape, very different ownership story depending on the year you choose. That's what this guide is for.
This Generation at a Glance
The A90 GR Supra launched in the US for the 2020 model year, built at the Magna Steyr factory in Graz, Austria alongside the BMW Z4 G29. Both cars share the CLAR platform, the same BMW-sourced B48 and B58 engines, and ZF transmissions. Toyota retuned the suspension, steering, and engine software, but mechanically these are BMW power units in a Toyota body.
The 2020-2024 generation (the A90 designation used in the US) is the fifth Supra overall. The US market received only the 3.0L six-cylinder at launch. The 2.0L four-cylinder joined the lineup for 2021 and was discontinued after 2024. The six-speed manual arrived for 2023 on the 3.0L only.
Key mid-cycle changes:
- 2021: B58 updated to 382hp (from 335hp) via new 6-port head and revised pistons. B48 2.0L added for US.
- 2022: Special A91-CF Edition. Incremental refinements.
- 2023: Six-speed manual available. A91-MT Edition (limited run, significant collector interest). This is the first manual Supra sold in the US since 1998.
- 2024: Last year for the 2.0L. Cleanest used inventory.
| Powertrain | Engine | Years (US) | HP / TQ | Trans | MPG (Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supra 3.0 | B58B30 6-cyl | 2020 only | 335hp / 365lb-ft | 8AT | 25 |
| Supra 3.0 | B58B30 6-cyl | 2021-2024 | 382hp / 368lb-ft | 8AT | 25 |
| Supra 3.0 (MT) | B58B30 6-cyl | 2023-2024 | 382hp / 368lb-ft | 6MT | 26 |
| Supra 2.0 | B48B20 4-cyl | 2021-2024 | 255hp / 295lb-ft | 8AT | 28 |
0-60: 3.9 seconds (3.0L), 5.1 seconds (2.0L). Both require premium fuel.
See Toyota GR Supra market data for current inventory and pricing across all model years.
Powertrain and Trim Breakdown
B58 3.0L Inline-Six (2020-2024)
The B58 is the reason most people want this car. It's BMW's turbocharged inline-six, found across the 3 Series, 5 Series, Z4, and a dozen other applications. In the Z4 and Supra, it runs in its M20TU/B58TU specification with a single twin-scroll turbo.
The 2020 vs 2021 split matters.
The 2020 Supra used the B58 in its original configuration: 11:1 compression, a two-port exhaust manifold, and pistons tuned for that setup. Output was 335hp. For 2021, Toyota upgraded to a six-port manifold, revised the compression ratio to 10.2:1, and installed new pistons designed to handle higher boost and the 382hp target. Those new pistons created the oil consumption problem.
Forum discussion on SupraMKV.com includes hundreds of posts tracking the issue, and Toyota's official GR forum (gr-zoo.com) has a dedicated oil consumption thread with owner reports going back to early 2021. The pattern: oil level drops significantly between oil changes, the vehicle alerts "add 1 quart" (the system only reads Full or Add 1 Quart — it cannot detect gradual loss), and some units show cylinder scoring when borescoped.
Toyota's TSB T-TT-0642-21 (revised March 2021) tells dealers to document symptoms and engine hours. No corrective procedure is included. Some dealers replaced engines under warranty. Others conducted piston ring service on affected units.
The 2022 3.0L improved but didn't eliminate the issue. A SupraMKV thread titled "2022 3.0 oil engine situation (over-consumption) questions" from mid-2022 shows some continued reports, though at lower frequency than 2021. By 2023, documented oil consumption cases are rare.
Other B58 items to know:
The ZF 8HP51 8-speed automatic is excellent. Toyota and BMW both specify lifetime fluid, but the ZF manufacturer's own guidance recommends service at 60,000 miles. Independent shops charge $200-$400 for transmission fluid. Skip this service and you're rolling the dice on a transmission that costs $8,000-$12,000 to replace.
The B58 uses an electric water pump. Early B58 applications across BMW's lineup have documented water pump failures at 70,000-100,000 miles. Replacement: $800-$1,200 at an independent shop. There's no fail-safe warning before it goes, so proactive replacement is the standard recommendation.
Premium fuel only. Running regular will trigger knock retard and reduce power. Not a crisis, but it's not designed for 87.
Recall note: Toyota/BMW issued a starter relay recall (NHTSA 25V636000) covering models manufactured between October 2019 and July 2021. A separate starter wear recall for 2021-2023 models was announced in March 2026. Both require dealer starter replacement at no charge. Confirm both recalls are closed on any B58 Supra you're considering.
B48 2.0L Inline-Four (US 2021-2024)
The B48 is the overlooked Supra. It's 200 pounds lighter than the 3.0L car, starts around $10,000-$12,000 less on the used market, and doesn't carry the 2021 oil consumption baggage. CarBuzz noted in 2026 that some B48 Supras are selling at prices comparable to new Mazda MX-5 Miatas.
The B48 puts out 255hp and 295lb-ft through the same ZF 8HP51 automatic (no manual option was ever offered). Zero to sixty takes 5.1 seconds — respectable for a 3,200-pound sports car.
Community discussion on SupraMKV.com paints the B48 as the cleaner, lower-drama version of the platform. Major documented issues are fewer:
The starter fire recall (NHTSA 25V636000) specifically names 4-cylinder Supra variants as one of the affected groups. Water intrusion can corrode the starter relay, creating a short-circuit fire risk. The 2.0L Supra was built starting late 2020 for the 2021 model year, so early production examples fall within the recall window. A second starter-wear recall announced in March 2026 covers 2021-2023 models regardless of engine. Both need to be closed before purchase.
The B48 benefits from the same ZF 8HP51 maintenance guidance as the 3.0L. Service the transmission fluid around 60,000 miles.
Carbon buildup is worth monitoring on B48-equipped cars. Direct injection sprays fuel directly into the cylinders, bypassing the intake valves. Over time, carbon deposits accumulate on the valve stems and heads. Walnut blasting at 60,000-80,000 miles costs $300-$600 and is standard procedure on any direct-injection BMW engine. Check service records.
If the price delta is within $8,000-$10,000 between a comparable 2.0L and 3.0L, the 3.0L is usually worth it. If the gap is larger, the 2.0L deserves serious consideration.
Six-Speed Manual (2023-2024, 3.0L Only)
Toyota used a ZF-supplied housing with bespoke internals and gearing to create the Supra's manual. This was never offered on the 2.0L.
Reported owner experiences from SupraMKV.com and theroadbeat.com:
The clutch pedal has a gritty or grainy feel around the bite point, especially when cold. This matches a pedal bushing issue common to BMW platform vehicles (the Z4 G29 manual has the same report). The feel improves with heat. No reports of fundamental clutch slippage or failure in normal street driving.
The 1-2 shift requires deliberate action. Rushing it causes a clunk from the rear differential. This is a known quirk of the final drive design, not a mechanical failure. It improves with practice and with proper double-clutch technique on aggressive shifts.
Manual Supra examples command a $3,000-$5,000 premium over comparable automatics on the used market. For a car with this much enthusiast following, that premium is rational. The A91-MT Edition (limited 2023 production) commands even more.
Trim-Specific Notes
Base 3.0 and 3.0 Premium: The base 3.0 has everything the car needs: adaptive suspension, sport seats, a 12-inch infotainment screen, JBL audio. The Premium adds a few tech features. Neither is meaningfully decontented compared to the other.
A91 Edition (2021): 1,000 units, exclusively in matte Refraction paint or Nitro Yellow. Adds Alcantara sport seats, carbon fiber details, and a unique wheel design. Worth tracking down if those colors appeal. No mechanical difference from the standard 3.0 — and the 2021 3.0L oil consumption caveat applies here too.
A91-CF Edition (2022): Carbon fiber accent package, 200 units. Collectible but mechanically identical.
A91-MT Edition (2023): First manual Supra in the US since 1998. Limited production. This is the one that will appreciate. If you find one, the premium is real.
45th Anniversary Edition (2024): Nostalgic white/red colorway commemorating the A60 Supra. Limited, holds value well.
For daily drivers and enthusiast street use, the standard 3.0 and 3.0 Premium are the rational picks. The special editions make sense if the specific colorway or the manual matters to you.
Which Model Year to Target
The oil consumption issue is the main variable. Here's the honest breakdown:
| Year | Powertrain | Recalls | Key Facts | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 3.0L only | 2 | 335hp, old piston design. No documented oil consumption. | Safe buy. Check recalls. Detuned vs later cars. |
| 2021 | 3.0L + 2.0L | 4+ | 382hp debut. 3.0L oil consumption risk highest. 2.0L cleanest new option. | 3.0L: scrutinize records. 2.0L: good buy. |
| 2022 | 3.0L + 2.0L | 3 | Oil consumption improving on 3.0L. Still some reports. | Good if service records are clean. |
| 2023 | 3.0L + 2.0L | 2 | Manual added. Cleanest 3.0L engine history. Best rounded year. | Best value overall. |
| 2024 | 3.0L + 2.0L | 1 | Last year for 2.0L. Freshest inventory, lowest mileage examples. | Best pick for low-mileage. |
The 2020 is an interesting case. You get 47 fewer horsepower but a cleaner mechanical history. On a stock, unmodified 2020 with a full service record, the risk profile is low. Enthusiasts who want the maximum factory power point to the 2021+, but they're also taking on more risk if the example hasn't been vetted.
If you want the manual, you're looking at 2023 or 2024 only. No other years offer it.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
For the 3.0L B58 (All Years)
Check oil via the dashboard diagnostic before test-driving. Any "Add 1 Quart" notification is a flag. A 2021 that's been sitting on a dealer lot for a month after a 5,000-mile top-off check won't show you the consumption rate in real time.
Ask to see physical service records, not just a Carfax. Look for any entries showing oil top-offs outside the scheduled oil change. Consumption shows up here before the "Add 1 Quart" alert triggers.
Ask directly: "Has this engine ever been replaced?" Toyota replaced engines under warranty on affected 2021 units. Replacement engines should come with documentation.
Run the VIN through the recall lookup. Confirm NHTSA 25V636000 and the March 2026 starter recall are both resolved.
Bring an OBD2 scanner with BMW ISTA or a compatible alternative. The Supra uses BMW diagnostic protocols. Look for stored fault codes related to oil pressure, crankcase ventilation, or any misfires. High fuel trim corrections can suggest issues.
Listen for water pump noise on cold start. A failing electric water pump can squeak or grind before failing. Replace proactively at 70,000 miles regardless.
For the 2.0L B48 (All Years)
Verify both starter recalls are closed before purchase. The fire risk recall (25V636000) is the priority.
Check for aftermarket tune flags. The B48 is a popular platform for performance tuning. Modified ECU calibrations leave traces in the DME data. If the seller says it's stock, confirm it with a scan.
Ask about carbon buildup service. On direct-injection engines, intake valve cleaning at 60,000-80,000 miles is routine. If it hasn't been done on a high-mileage example, budget $400-$600.
For Manual Transmission Models (2023+)
Test the clutch pedal carefully. Gritty feel at the bite point is documented and cosmetic. Heavy drag, slippage under load, or a spongy pedal that wasn't there previously is different. Ask for any service records showing clutch work.
Shift through all six gears during the test drive, including reverse. The 1-2 upshift requires deliberate timing. Clunking once while you figure out the rhythm is normal. Consistent clunking throughout the shift range is not.
For Any Model
Ask about track use. The Supra logs all track events via its connected services system. This data is accessible during dealer service visits. A heavily tracked example isn't automatically a bad one, but it changes what you inspect.
Ask the seller if any modifications were made. Tunes and intake/exhaust upgrades are common on this platform. Modified ECUs can void warranty coverage for related failures under the Magnuson-Moss Act — but only if Toyota can demonstrate the modification caused the issue. What matters more: a modified car has been run harder, possibly past factory limits.
Running Costs
| Powertrain | Combined MPG | Oil Change | ZF Fluid Service | Tires | Est. Annual Repair |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B58 3.0L | 25 MPG | $150-$250 (10k interval) | $200-$400 (at 60k mi) | $1,200-$1,800/set | $800-$1,500/yr |
| B48 2.0L | 28 MPG | $100-$200 (10k interval) | $200-$400 (at 60k mi) | $1,200-$1,800/set | $600-$1,200/yr |
Brake pad replacement runs $447-$504 per axle at a dealer. Independent shops charge $300-$400 with quality aftermarket pads.
New cars include Toyota's 2-year / 25,000-mile ToyotaCare maintenance plan. This may still have time remaining on low-mileage examples and transfers to subsequent owners.
Both powertrains use premium fuel. Budget $2,500-$3,500 annually in fuel costs at typical driving volumes.
FAQ
Is the Toyota GR Supra A90 reliable? Most model years are. The 3.0L in 2022, 2023, and 2024 has a solid ownership track record when bought from a non-tracked, non-modified example with complete service history. The 2021 3.0L is the outlier, with documented oil consumption problems that Toyota issued a TSB for but never resolved. The 2.0L four-cylinder is consistently reliable across all years (2021-2024).
Should I avoid the 2021 Toyota GR Supra 3.0? Not automatically. A clean 2021 with documented service records showing no oil top-offs between changes and no engine-related warranty claims is a legitimate used-car buy. You need to verify it rather than assume it. A 2021 without records is a different conversation.
What year GR Supra is best to buy used? The 2023 3.0L is the sweet spot: 382hp, cleanest engine history within the generation, and the first year with the manual transmission option. The 2024 is excellent and has the freshest inventory. Either is the right answer for someone buying in 2026.
Is the Supra 2.0 worth it? Yes, for the right buyer. The B48 2.0L is lighter, cheaper, and has none of the 3.0L oil consumption history. You give up 127hp and the manual option. If the sport coupe experience matters more than outright pace, the 2.0L at $32,000-$38,000 is a genuine value.
How long does a GR Supra last? Well-maintained examples with clean oil histories and no track abuse regularly reach 100,000+ miles without major failures. The B58 is derived from BMW's most reliable engine lineage. Abuse, aggressive tuning, and deferred maintenance shorten that significantly.
Does the GR Supra log if it's been tracked? Yes. The Supra's connected services system records track events and ECU exceedances. This data is visible to Toyota and BMW dealerships during service visits. Ask any seller about track history — and assume the dealer can see it regardless of the answer.
Bottom Line
The 2023 3.0L is the best version of the A90. Three years of refinements, cleanest engine history, manual transmission available. If budget is tighter, a clean-records 2022 3.0L or a 2022-2023 2.0L are the next picks.
Avoid the 2021 3.0L without thorough documentation. It's not automatically bad — but it requires more homework than any other year in this generation.
Run every VIN through a recall check. Both the starter relay recall (NHTSA 25V636000) and the March 2026 starter wear recall may still be open on many examples. CarScout members can track specific model year and trim combinations and get price drop alerts at usecarscout.com.
Data sourced from NHTSA recalls database, EPA fuel economy data, and real owner experiences from SupraMKV.com, Toyota's official GR Forum (gr-zoo.com), ToyoHeadquarters.com, and CarComplaints.com. See the full Toyota GR Supra market data for current pricing and inventory.