Toyota’s Legendary Sports Car MR2
Set to Debut Next-Generation Model in 2025
First Look via CG Rendering
Rumors are swirling about a potential revival of the Toyota MR2, with industry sources suggesting that a new model could be unveiled as early as late 2025 and launched in 2026. In recent years, Toyota has been exploring various options to bring back the iconic sports car.
The company has evaluated a range of powertrain configurations, from a purely electric setup to an internal combustion engine variant based on the GR Corolla’s engine and hybrid systems. Notably, the FR-Se electric vehicle concept unveiled by Toyota at the end of 2023 shares design elements reminiscent of the future MR2, bolstering speculation about a revival in the form of an electric vehicle.
The new model could also emerge as an EV
With the potential for a next-generation engine
Toyota is also considering a dual-launch strategy for the revival of the MR2, planning to introduce both a pure electric model based on the FT-Se and an internal combustion engine variant. The internal combustion version is expected to feature a 3-cylinder 1.6L turbo engine, similar to that found in the GR Corolla. This engine produces a robust 300 horsepower and 40.7 kgf.m of torque.
Toyota’s newly developed next-generation gasoline engine may also be installed in the high-performance MR2 GRMN. Rumor has it that Toyota’s 2.0L gasoline turbo engine, which is currently under development, can produce a maximum output of 592 horsepower without the intervention of an electric motor. The 2.0L turbo engine is expected to outperform the current 2.4L turbo engine while being smaller and more efficient.
The two-door sports car’s body shape
Features an updated design rendering
The design of the newly revived MR2 is drawing considerable attention, with Toyota exploring various body styles. Initially, a mid-engine hatchback was proposed; however, this design was deemed too similar to the GR Yaris. Ultimately, Toyota decided to return to the classic two-door sports car configuration that the MR2 is known for.
Following the announcement, a CG rendering of the new MR2 was released. It showcases a body shape typical of sports cars but with a distinctly futuristic design. The front features sleek, thin headlights that extend horizontally, seamlessly connecting to large air ducts on the sides. A diamond-shaped pattern has been incorporated into the interior of the air ducts, enhancing the vehicle’s modern aesthetic.
The design has shifted to a more streamlined shape
As Toyota grapples with its design choices
The angular garnish follows the contours of the air ducts, while the front lip extends forward, enhancing the MR2’s sporty appearance. The side of the bonnet showcases a robust volume that flows down in a graceful curve. The center of the bonnet is lower, giving the front end a sharp, aggressive look. At the rear, the design features horizontal tail lights, with their sides extending downward strikingly.
Toyota has yet to finalize the shape of the roof and rear end. Among the options being considered is a profile reminiscent of the original first-generation MR2, featuring a vertical rear window and a flat rear end, or a design akin to the current Supra, characterized by a roofline that smoothly transitions into the sloping rear glass typical of traditional sports cars.
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