The 4cyl sucks in BMW. Torquey but not a revver. The engine has no soul. And for $55K (I would expect) for the lower powered Supra is a horrible value proposition. Mostly because you cannot get a manual. Absolutely tragic.
To each of their own. I don't necessarily mind a torquey but not revvy engine. Having lived with one for a short while, it was addicting, and its replacement will be no different. But obviously, the sound is an important factor as well. This 2.0T Supra sounds pretty meh. I love downshifting with the Vette in sports mode.
The manual thing is just a dead horse at this point. I don't expect it to ever get one and that's just the way it is. I am sure hardcore car people have done manual swaps on the new Supra.
You can only go so fast on city streets today and a manual is simply more fun than an auto. Not faster anymore but more fun.
I am not so sure on your dead horse comment. Porsche is bringing BACK manual options. I think you will see more of this going forward for the very reason that I state above.
Oh totally, I drive one because I personally like it more, but I think manufacturers have different concerns. Take rate would be a pretty important measure to them, for example.
And we are talking about Porsche here. They are known to actually listen to people, and I'd imagine their fanbase actually can afford them so they don't have to worry about sales. Toyota? Welp, it's Toyota. They are good at making car equivalent of a toaster, not at sports cars anymore, so I am not holding my breath.
