BMW Rejects S58 for Toyota Supra: Final Edition and Fuel Cell Plans Revealed

BMW reportedly shut down Toyota’s bid to use the potent S58 engine in the Supra Final Edition! As a car enthusiast who’s followed the BMW-Toyota partnership since their 2018 Z4-Supra collab announcement, this threw me for a loop. The duo’s joint efforts have thrilled fans, but this twist, alongside hints of a hydrogen fuel cell future, has me buzzing. Let’s dive into the details over a cup of tea.

The B58 Powerhouse Behind the Supra

The Toyota GR Supra and BMW Z4 share a bespoke platform, powered by BMW’s turbocharged B58 inline-six. This engine, also found in models like the Ineos Grenadier, delivers 382 hp and 368 lb-ft in the Supra, though it kicked off at 335 hp in 2020 before Toyota’s tuning boosted it. The Final Edition cranks it up to 429 hp and 420 lb-ft in Europe and Japan, while U.S. models stick with the base output. Toyota explained the regional differences as a nod to “customer requests, road conditions, and regulations,” but fans have long wondered if more was possible.

The S58 Snub: A Strategic Move?

Enter the S58—a beefier twin-turbo variant powering BMW’s M2 and M4, pumping out 453 hp and often exceeding 500 hp. Recent reports from BMW Blog suggest Toyota pitched this M-division gem for the Supra Final Edition, especially after spy shots fueled speculation. But BMW said no. Sources hint it’s about protecting their M-line sales—why let a Supra rival their M coupes? BMW also skipped the S58 for the Z4, keeping it exclusive. Toyota made do with a B58 tune, which is solid, but U.S. fans are left grumbling about missing that extra punch.

A New Chapter with Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Looking ahead, BMW and Toyota are cooking up a hydrogen electric fuel cell powertrain, likely debuting on the next BMW X5 outside the U.S. Toyota’s tight-lipped on its plans, but they’ve confirmed a sixth-generation Supra is on the horizon—sans BMW engines, it seems. This shift could redefine the Supra, blending eco-tech with its sports car soul. I’m curious how this will stack up against rivals like the Nissan Z or Porsche 911 hybrid.

My Take: A Missed Opportunity or Smart Play?

BMW’s S58 rejection stings for Supra fans craving more power, but it underscores their M-brand strategy. The B58 tune keeps it competitive, though the U.S. miss is a bummer. The hydrogen pivot? Bold and forward-thinking, potentially setting a new benchmark. This saga’s far from over—watch for CES 2026 updates!

What do you think—should Toyota push back for the S58, or embrace the fuel cell future? Share below!