Could the Toyota concept car S-FR make a comeback as a lightweight sports car?
Let’s take a look at the information released about the vehicle
Toyota has teased news about developing a new sports car, and rumors are circulating that the S-FR concept car, first showcased at the 2015 Tokyo Auto Salon, could be its inspiration. Although these rumors have surfaced a few times over the years, recent developments suggest that a production model may not be too far off.
The S-FR was created as a nod to Toyota’s iconic lightweight Sports 800, blending compact design with front-engine, rear-wheel drive dynamics. With new information about the project’s timeline, potential pricing, and design updates, let’s dive into what we know.
Daihatsu, Suzuki collaborate
Mazda Miata’s rival model
First, the sports car is likely to be jointly developed by Toyota, Daihatsu, and Suzuki. As for the powertrain, it is expected to utilize a 3-cylinder 1.3L turbocharged engine with a maximum output of about 150 horsepower. The main competing model is expected to be the Mazda Miata.
The vehicle’s size is expected to be similar to that of Daihatsu’s Copen and Suzuki’s Cappuccino. It will be a smaller, lightweight sports car than the GR86, previously considered a rival to the Miata.
Needs to revisit design that is over 10 years old
It may be very different from a concept car
While the design of the production S-FR is expected to resemble the original concept, it’s been nearly a decade since that model was revealed. Some design elements will likely be updated to reflect modern tastes and performance needs.
The S-FR was released with a length of 3,990 mm(157.0 inches), width of 1,695 mm(66.7 inches), height of 1,320 mm(52.0 inches), and wheelbase of 2,480 mm(97.6 inches). It can accommodate up to 4 people, but it seems that the mass-produced model to be released in the future may appear differently from the existing one.
The likelihood of a 2026 launch is high
Lightweight roadster enthusiasts are excited
Specific sales information has not been released yet, but based on current information, the launch is likely to take place after 2026. It will be sold in the Japanese market, but it is unknown whether it will be available in the North American market or other overseas markets. This is because not many countries prefer small-sized sports cars.
If released in overseas markets, it will likely be released using the GR brand name, which is a little more familiar to global consumers. The price of the mass-produced S-FR model, which several overseas media outlets have predicted, is around $28,000. Recently, attention has been paid to whether the Japanese manufacturer, which is re-launching a famous car from the past, can successfully revive the concept car that was revealed 10 years ago as a mass-produced car.
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