Toyota has made significant strides towards reviving the iconic MR2 sports car with the unveiling of the mid-engined GR Yaris prototype at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon. This event showcased the GR Yaris M Concept, a vehicle that not only highlights Toyota’s commitment to performance but also hints at the potential return of a beloved nameplate.
The GR Yaris M Concept: A New Era of Performance
The GR Yaris M Concept features a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, which is mounted behind the rear seats, marking a departure from the front-mounted engine layout of the standard GR Yaris. This mid-engine configuration is expected to enhance weight distribution and overall handling dynamics, making it an exciting prospect for driving enthusiasts.
While specific power output figures have not been officially disclosed, reports suggest that this engine could deliver around 400 horsepower in road-going form and up to 600 horsepower in racing variants. Such capabilities position the GR Yaris M as a formidable contender in motorsport, with plans for it to compete in Japan’s Super Taikyu racing series.
A Testbed for Future Models
The introduction of the GR Yaris M Concept serves as a testbed for Toyota’s engineers to explore the potential of their new turbocharged engine technology. This initiative aligns with Toyota’s broader strategy of developing “ever-better motorsports-bred cars,” which emphasizes rigorous testing and feedback from professional drivers, including Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda, who races under the pseudonym “Morizo”.
The prototype will undergo extensive testing, where it will be “driven to failure” in extreme racing conditions, allowing engineers to refine its performance characteristics based on real-world data. This approach not only enhances the development of the GR Yaris but also lays groundwork for future models, potentially including a new MR2.
The MR2 Revival: Hints and Speculations
The unveiling of this mid-engined prototype has reignited speculation about the revival of the MR2 nameplate. Previous reports indicated that Toyota had green-lit plans for a new MR2 model, which would likely share similar engineering principles with the GR Yaris M Concept. The wheelbase of the GR Yaris is comparable to that of previous MR2 models, suggesting that a modern iteration could be feasible within Toyota’s current lineup.
Additionally, Toyota’s promotional materials have hinted at upcoming models, including references to both the MR2 and Celica nameplates, further fueling excitement among fans of these classic sports cars.
The introduction of the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon marks an exciting chapter for Toyota as it continues to innovate within its performance lineup. With its advanced engineering and potential ties to the revival of iconic models like the MR2, this prototype exemplifies Toyota’s dedication to motorsport and performance-driven vehicles. As developments unfold, enthusiasts eagerly await further announcements regarding production plans and specifications.