Toyota is reportedly gearing up for a sports car renaissance, with exciting new iterations of the GR Supra and GR86 anticipated to debut starting in 2025. Adding fuel to the fire, rumors are swirling about the resurrection of the beloved Toyota MR2 sports coupe, a model last seen in production in 2007. According to Japan’s Best Car magazine, the revived MR2 might incorporate a fascinating design homage to Ferrari.
Initial speculation heavily suggested that the all-electric Toyota FT-Se concept, unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show (JMS) last October, would evolve into the next-generation MR2, hitting showrooms post-2025 as a fully electric vehicle. However, fresh insights from scoop sources at Best Car indicate a different direction. Toyota is expected to maintain the MR2’s signature mid-engine configuration but opt for a powertrain rooted in the award-winning GR Yaris. This would mean leveraging the rally-proven 1.6-liter, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, capable of delivering a robust 320 horsepower.
This artist’s rendering, featured in Japan’s Best Car magazine, offers a glimpse into the potential design of the next-generation Toyota MR2, showcasing distinct Ferrari-esque lines.
When the second-generation MR2 burst onto the scene in 1989, it quickly earned the moniker “the poor man’s Ferrari.” This nickname was attributed to its striking resemblance to Ferrari’s 308 GTB, thanks to its similar proportions and flowing curves. This popular model paved the way for the third generation in 1999, which eventually ceased production in 2007, marking the end of the MR2 lineage for nearly two decades.
Now, Toyota is reportedly planning to bring back the MR2 in 2026, potentially equipped with what could be its final internal combustion engine for this model. Adding to the anticipation, it appears the new MR2 will indeed retain its mid-engine layout, moving away from the full electrification hinted at by the FT-Se concept. Upon witnessing the impressive FT-Se electric concept at the JMS, many, including myself, immediately considered it a strong preview of the next MR2.
However, Best Car magazine, renowned for its automotive scoops, suggests the upcoming MR2 will deviate from electric power, embracing Toyota’s acclaimed 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. The mid-engine configuration provides designers with considerable creative freedom in styling. While the FT-Se concept leaned towards a compact Lotus Evora aesthetic, the MR2 concept, as envisioned by Best Car, is expected to draw inspiration from the Ferrari 296 GTB’s elegant lines, blended with subtle Lotus design elements.
Projected to arrive in dealerships in 2026 with a price tag exceeding $65,000, the next-generation MR2 is rumored to be produced in limited quantities by Toyota’s in-house GRMN (Gazoo Racing tuned by Meister of Nurburgring) studio. This limited production strategy aims to enhance exclusivity while justifying the model’s premium pricing, positioning the Toyota Mr2 2025 as a sought-after and unique sports car in the evolving automotive landscape.
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