Toyota is actively refining a new mid-engine sports car concept, the GR Yaris M, with strong indications it will evolve into a production model – potentially resurrecting the iconic MR2 nameplate. The project is progressing rapidly, according to Gazoo Racing marketing manager Mikio Hayashi, who stated the car is “getting better every day.”
From Concept to Reality
The GR Yaris M first appeared at the Tokyo Auto Salon in early 2025, immediately sparking speculation about a mid-engine revival. The concept’s development has been vigorous, with frequent track testing in Japan. While the initial form resembled a wild hatchback, it is now understood to serve as a testing ground for a dedicated sports car.
Engine and Performance
The new model is expected to feature Toyota’s turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine, the same unit planned for the upcoming Celica revival. Officials hint at outputs exceeding 400 horsepower, paired with an all-wheel-drive system for enhanced performance.
MR2’s Potential Return
When pressed on the possibility of reviving the MR2 name – unused since 2007 – Hayashi remained coy but noncommittal, stating only, “Thank you for your suggestion.” This ambiguity signals a high probability of the MR2 moniker making a comeback. The car will wear a Gazoo Racing badge, solidifying GR as a standalone performance brand within Toyota.
Strategic Positioning
The MR2 will slot below the V8-powered GR GT in Toyota’s lineup, above the Celica. With the Supra also rumored for a return, Toyota is aggressively positioning itself as a key player in the sports car segment – a market increasingly abandoned by mainstream automakers.
Future Outlook
The fate of existing GR models (Yaris, Corolla, and 86) remains uncertain, as maintaining such a broad performance range could be redundant. However, the high-volume hatchbacks are likely to persist, while the 86 may see further collaboration with Subaru and potentially Mazda, aligning it with the next-generation Miata.
Timeline and Expectations
Though a concrete release date is not yet set, GR President Tomoya Takahashi has indicated that a mid-engine sports car is unlikely within the next four to five years. Despite the delay, Toyota’s commitment to expanding the GR lineup is clear, signaling an exciting future for sports car enthusiasts.
Toyota’s renewed focus on performance models underscores a strategic shift towards engaging driving experiences, filling a void left by many competitors. The MR2’s potential return is a testament to the enduring appeal of mid-engine sports cars.
