Following on from spy images of the fifth-generationToyota Supra published late last year, our German spy photographers have captured new images of a Supra prototype undergoing testing at the legendary Nürburgring?. Check out the details!

Picture credit: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

You may remember, way back in 2012, when Toyota announcedit would collaborate with BMW to co-develop two sports cars. It later came to light that the two models in question would be the new "BMW Z5", successor to the Z4, and the next-generation Toyota Supra, both of which are to share the same platform but will ultimately be two very different models.

Previous spy images revealed the design direction for the new 2-seater Toyota Supra coupe, with a production model expected sometime in 2018. The initial spyimages of the Supra showed it to be similar in design to the upcoming "BMW Z5" (name not confirmed at this stage), but the Supra prototype is clearly distinguished by itsrevised front bumper with new intakes as well as newly designed taillights. The latest images show a Supra prototype undergoing testing at theNürburgring and the front-end and double-bubble roof clearly takeinspiration from the 2014 Toyota FT-1 concept car .

Also, for the first time, we are able to get a glimspe of the interior, albeit heavily camofluaged. Based on the image below, the interior will likely feature a large touchscreen display along with bolstered sports seats and a 3-spoke steering wheel.

A first look inside the next-generation Toyota Supra which is set for production in 2018.

In terms of what engine will power the fifth-generation Supra, nothing has been confirmed at this stage, but you can expect it to be petrol-powered and there will be a hybrid version, drawing on technological experience from Toyota’s TSO50 LMP1 hybrid Le Mans race car. Sadly, we can't expect Toyota to dig deep into its parts bin and shove in the iconic 2JZ motor, but we'll pray the new powerplant has enough grunt to run its rivals close.The original Supra was Toyota's answer to Porsche after all…

Regardless, it’s great to see the Supra nameplate making a comeback after 15years since the fourth-generation Supra was discontinued in 2002. By all accounts, the resurrection of the Supra will be welcomed. Reports indicate that Toyota might show a near-production Supra concept at the Tokyo Motor Show in October 2017 with production due to start sometime in 2018. The new Supra model will sit at the top ofToyota's sports car lineup alongside the 86 Coupe. There are also rumours that Toyota may ressurect the MR2 nameplate to slot inbetween the 86 and Supra, but these rumours have yet to be officiallyconfirmed.

We will keep you updated as soon as more details become available!

Related content:

New Version of the Toyota FT-1 Sports Car Concept Unveiled

Toyota FT-1 Concept Unleashed In Detroit

2014 Toyota 86 Limited Edition Review

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