IF a car could be fuelled by kerb appeal alone, the Toyota GR Supra's tank would be constantly full.

Though launched in the UK in September 2019, it remains a rare sight, and when people spot it, they are immediately interested.

It's a crowd-puller.

The influence of the landmark 2000GT is particularly in evidence in the long bonnet, compact body and double-bubble roof, while the distinctive look of the fourth-generation Supra is captured in both the front and rear styling, notably in the muscular rear wings and the arc of the integrated spoiler.

The fifth-generation Supra was launched as an exhilarating 3.0-litre beast producing 335bhp from its turbocharged six-cylinder engine. Then, in January of this year, its UK range was extended to include a new 2.0-litre version, equipped with a four-cylinder turbo power plant.

Lighter and more compact than the 3.0-litre unit, it means the new model is more nimble and arguably much better handling than its more powerful sibling. Crucially, it's also much cheaper.

Visually, there's no telling the siblings apart, the only significantly visible difference on the outside is the smaller 18-inch wheels you get compared with 19-inchers on the 3.0-litre.

Under the bonnet the 3.0-litre unit has been replaced by a 254bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder though it's matched with the same slick eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Despite having less power, the lesser-powered engine does bring advantages, the first one being a 100kg weight saving, bringing the kerb weight down to just 1,395kg - lighter than a Porsche Cayman. As most of that weight comes off the front axle, the Supra's weight distribution is improved much closer to the sought-after 50:50 ideal.

At that weight, and with a punchy 400Nm of torque - available across 1,550 to 4,000rom - it's an enjoyable car to drive and while it's not supercar quick you never find yourself wanting more power

That performance does not come at a high cost in terms of fuel consumption. The 2.0-litre officially achieves 38.7mpg and over nearly 600 miles of A, B and city roads, I achieved a very respectable 35mpg.

The Supra's short wheelbase, wide track, light weight and low centre of gravity means it's well balanced and biddable, with plenty of grip. It's lovely agility is helped by an active differential that operates both when accelerating and decelerating and can seamlessly adjust from zero to full, 100 per cent lock, with instant response.

Sporty Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) also aids performance with instant response to changes in the road surface, adjusting the shock absorber force at each wheel to maintain a flat vehicle posture, excellent steering response and supple ride comfort.

All combined, it makes the Supra super special to drive.

Safety aids include an automatic emergency braking system, lane departure alert, road sign recognition and automatic high beam, ABS, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control, traction control, and Active Cornering Assist, which also aids improves agility.

Inside, the driver's cockpit is designed to help the driver focus entirely on the business of driving. A low, slim horizontal dashboard maximises the forward view through the windscreen, while the principal controls are tightly grouped for quick and easy operation.

The meters and paddle shifts all sit directly in front of the driver, with additional switches located on the three-spoke steering wheel. The 8.8-inch high-definition driver's instrument display is clearly visible through the steering wheel, with a 3D-effect tachometer and shift indicator positioned in the centre; a digital speed read-out to the left; and infotainment and navigation information to the right.

The air conditioning control panel sits proud of the console with memory-touch switches for easy operation; an 8.8-inch central multimedia display is mounted above the console, operated using a touchscreen or a rotary controller.

You also get a four-speaker 100W audio system, cruise control, automatic headlights and wipers, smart entry and start and heated, and comfortably supportive sports seats upholstered in black Alcantara.

The boot space is large enough for two people's luggage for a weekend away or the weekly shopping.