Toyota and Suzuki are developing a new two-seater sports car. Will the MR2 return?

As we learned from its roadmap presented at the beginning of last year, Toyota’s plans showed the arrival of a new sports car which was, in fact, previewed as a concept under the name Toyota Sports EV Concept. A model with attractive design and sporty proportions, carbon fibre and, in addition, the possibility of being a convertible, which led us to dream of the return of the legendary Toyota MR2.

Now, thanks to a series of information obtained by the Japanese publication Best Car, we have learned that Toyota is developing, together with Suzuki, a small sports car, with a 1.0 three-cylinder turbocharged engine in a mid-engine layout and a low weight, key features that characterised the small two-seater that was sold from 1984 to 2007.

Although this information is not yet official, rumours suggest that the size of this new model will be slightly larger than that of the last generation of the MR2, though without considerably increasing the weight in comparison, as it will be around 1,000 kg, about 25 kg more than the third-generation MR2.

Good power-to-weight ratio

Focusing more fully on the engine that this sports car will possibly use, it will be a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo, which will develop a maximum power of 120 CV and a maximum torque of 200 Nm, supported by a mild hybrid system (MHEV) to comply with the emissions regulations currently in force and reduce fuel consumption.

The mechanical side will be handled by Suzuki, while Toyota will be in charge of the chassis, suspension and tuning in general.

Pending confirmation of its arrival date, design or markets where it will be sold, the Japanese publication has stated that its price could start from 19,000 euros at current exchange rates, so we will have to wait for more details.