Toyota is quietly working on a serious driver’s car – one that could be the spiritual successor to the iconic MR2. Earlier this year, the Japanese brand confirmed that it is developing a new mid-engine sports car, and new info suggests that it’s aiming straight at performance lovers.
According to GR chief engineer Naohiko Saito, early testing has revealed that pairing a mid-engine layout with all-wheel drive delivers the ideal balance for high-performance driving. It’s a significant shift from the original MR2 formula, hinting at a more advanced and capable machine.
Development is already underway. Toyota has been testing a mid-engine prototype – known as the Concept M – in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series. Currently running a rear-wheel-drive setup, the car represents an early phase of a four-stage development plan, giving engineers a real-world platform to work upon.
While a production version is still some years away – likely at least four – the final car is expected to draw design inspiration from the striking FT-Se concept. Under the hood, it could feature Toyota’s new G20E turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, rumoured to produce over 400 hp. An eight-speed automatic gearbox, similar to the units found in the GR Corolla and GR Yaris, is also expected to be part of the package.
Source: Auto Express
