The iconic Toyota MR2 is gearing up for a comeback, slated for a 2026 release. This legendary model follows the lineage of the 2012 Toyota 86 and the 2019 Mk5 Supra, marking Toyota’s return to the pure petrol sports car arena.
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The buzz surrounding this revival hints at the MR2’s exclusive release in Japan, positioning it as the swan song for engine-driven sports cars. Sources suggest a nod to the MR2’s heritage with a modern take on the classic AW11, the car’s first generation.
Initially, there were plans to craft a special edition of the GRMN Yaris with a mid-rear engine placement. However, it appears that Toyota’s management felt this lacked the necessary impact for the MR2’s revival. Interestingly, Toyota’s recent electric FT-SE Concept hints at the perfect dimensions for a mid-engine sports car. While the company hasn’t confirmed the drivetrain for the production version, speculation swirls around the potential use of this concept as the foundation for the new MR2.
Rumours also suggest the GR Yaris could serve as the platform for the new MR2, given the ongoing testing with a turbocharged 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine, the same powertrain found in the GR Yaris. Reports indicate that the prototype heavily borrows elements from the hotter GRMN Yaris, which was a limited production model of just 500 units.
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The resurgence of the MR2 will potentially arrive at a crucial juncture, poised to make its mark before the electric vehicle revolution fully takes over. This model’s reintroduction could be Toyota’s strategic move to preserve the legacy of its engine-driven sports cars while embracing the evolving automotive landscape. At this point, our only option is to wait patiently for further information to emerge.
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