Electric Cars

Toyota's performance division, Gazoo Racing, has officially announced the development of a new mid-engine sports car, generating considerable excitement among automotive enthusiasts. This new model is expected to be a modern interpretation of the iconic MR2, featuring a powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter G20E engine. While prototypes are currently being rigorously tested, the public will need to exercise patience, as the production model is not anticipated to hit the market for another four to five years, likely around 2030. This initiative underscores Toyota's commitment to delivering exhilarating driving experiences and expanding its high-performance vehicle lineup.

Toyota is set to revitalize its sports car offerings with the official confirmation of a new mid-engine vehicle under its Gazoo Racing banner. This announcement dispels previous speculations and solidifies the prospect of a successor to the legendary MR2. The forthcoming sports car will incorporate an innovative turbocharged 2.0-liter G20E engine, engineered to deliver formidable power exceeding 400 horsepower. Although prototype development is in its initial stages, requiring a gestation period of four to five years, the commitment from Gazoo Racing's president, Tomoya Takahashi, signals a clear direction towards a thrilling addition to Toyota's performance heritage. This strategic move aims to cater to enthusiasts yearning for a dynamically balanced and potent sports car, reinforcing the brand's dedication to high-performance engineering.

The Long-Awaited Mid-Engine Return

After years of anticipation and various rumors, Toyota has finally given its official nod to the creation of a new mid-engine sports car. This confirmation comes from Gazoo Racing, now an independent sub-brand focused on high-performance vehicles, signaling a new era for Toyota's enthusiast offerings. The vehicle, which is still in its early developmental phases, is expected to evoke the spirit of the much-missed MR2. While prototype evaluations are currently in progress, consumers should brace themselves for a considerable wait, with production models projected to arrive sometime around 2030.

The journey to bring this mid-engine marvel to fruition is a carefully planned and extended one. Tomoya Takahashi, the president of Gazoo Racing, highlighted in a recent interview that despite the initial prototype testing, the unnamed model is currently in the first of four development stages. This rigorous process implies that it will take approximately four to five years before mass production can commence. The long timeline reflects Toyota's meticulous approach to engineering and performance, ensuring that the new sports car lives up to the brand's exacting standards and satisfies the high expectations of its dedicated fan base. This strategic patience aims to deliver a refined and captivating driving machine.

A Powerful New Heart: The G20E Engine

Central to the new mid-engine sports car is the introduction of Toyota's brand-new G20E engine. This turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline unit represents a significant leap in engine technology, having been initially tested in the GR Yaris M concept. Early indications suggest that this innovative power plant is designed to produce an impressive output of over 400 horsepower, with its race-spec variants potentially reaching upwards of 600 horsepower, promising exhilarating performance for the upcoming vehicle.

Tomoya Takahashi emphasized that the existing 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, while capable in models like the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Lexus LBX Morizo RR, would not suffice for the demands of a mid-engine layout. The G20E, on the other hand, is not only more powerful but also boasts a more compact design, being 10 percent smaller and lower than previous 2.4-liter turbo engines. Furthermore, it is expected to offer up to 30 percent greater efficiency, particularly in its hybrid configuration, which Takahashi confirmed will be part of its electrified future. The G20E's versatility extends to front-engine applications, indicating its potential use across a broader range of future Toyota and Gazoo Racing performance models.

Toyota's legendary MR2 sports car is on the cusp of a revival, as confirmed by Gazoo Racing president Tomoya Takahashi. While initial teasers hinted at an electric concept, the upcoming MR2 will feature a powerful, newly developed turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the G20E, with the potential for hybrid assistance. Engineers are currently in the initial phase of a four-stage development process, indicating a release toward the end of the decade. This new MR2 is expected to be a larger, two-door coupe, embodying Toyota's commitment to internal-combustion engines while exploring hybrid technologies to meet future emissions standards.

Toyota MR2 Reimagined: Engineering a Future Icon

In a revealing interview with Automotive News, Gazoo Racing president Tomoya Takahashi shed light on the highly anticipated return of the Toyota MR2. Despite earlier speculation fueled by cryptic social media posts from Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda and the Tokyo Auto Salon, where a kei truck rather than a sports car concept was unveiled, the new MR2 is indeed in development. Takahashi confirmed that the engineering teams are in the first of four critical development stages, suggesting that fans will need to patiently await its arrival, likely toward the close of the current decade.

At the heart of the reimagined MR2 will be the innovative G20E, a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This potent powerplant, which was first showcased in the GR Yaris M and is currently being rigorously tested in racing conditions, is designed for exceptional versatility. It can be mounted in various configurations (front, mid, or rear) and orientations (longitudinal or transverse), offering immense flexibility for future vehicle applications. Toyota anticipates the G20E will surpass the horsepower output of its existing turbo 2.4-liter engine, all while boasting a compact size that optimizes packaging within the vehicle.

While the G20E is engineered to meet stringent Euro 7 emissions regulations without relying solely on electric power, Takahashi left the door open for hybrid integration. He emphasized that combining this engine with hybrid technology would be "almost mandatory" for its deployment across a wider range of vehicles. This strategic approach highlights Toyota's balanced vision for the future, blending the thrill of internal combustion with the efficiency of hybrid systems. Although the GR Yaris M is a small vehicle, the new MR2 is expected to be larger, likely adopting a sleek two-door coupe design, continuing the legacy of its predecessors.

The resurgence of the MR2 signifies Toyota's dedication to its sports car heritage, proving that performance and innovation can coexist with evolving environmental demands. The blend of a powerful internal combustion engine, potential hybrid capabilities, and a commitment to meticulous engineering promises a dynamic and engaging driving experience for enthusiasts worldwide.