As many of you know, I recently spent a few months in Japan, where the number one topic on everyone’s lips was the potential return of the Toyota MR2. We discussed it extensively at the Japan Mobility Show, but just recently, Best Car magazine reignited the excitement with new rumors and speculation.
According to them, the MR2 is indeed confirmed and coming to the market. This is incredibly exciting news, and it’s not going to be in full electric format. Instead, it will be available in a gasoline version.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L Turbocharged Three-Cylinder |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual / 8-Speed Automatic |
| Power Output | 320 PS |
| Drive Type | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Length | 4.4 meters |
| Width | 1.85 meters |
| Height | 1.23 meters |
| Wheelbase | 2.6 meters |
| Weight | 1300 kg |
| Production Units | 50 to 100 |
| Price Range | $80,000 to $100,000 USD |
| Market Availability | Potentially Japan Only |
| Design Variants | Two Rear Design Options (Double-Deck, Single-Deck) |
| Fuel Type | Pure Gasoline |
| Special Version | GRMN (High Performance) |
| Release Year | 2025-2026 |
What’s New in 2026 Toyota MR2?
Best Car magazine from Japan has provided two potential designs for the new MR2. One interesting point is that two designs are being developed concurrently, and the final choice hasn’t been made yet. The magazine suggests we could see this MR2 revival as early as 2025 or 2026.
The new MR2 is expected to utilize the 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder engine from the GR Yaris, with an option for a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission. This is great news for sports car enthusiasts who prefer a pure gasoline engine over hybrid or electric options.
Design and Features
The magazine presents two potential rear designs for the MR2. One design resembles the traditional first-generation NSX or the second-generation MR2, featuring two separate openings for the engine and the trunk.
The other design is more like a sports coupe, with a single large opening similar to Ferrari and other exotic sports cars.
The front of the car also looks stunning, with a design that could very well compete with some of the most beautiful sports cars on the market. The magazine speculates that the final design will likely draw inspiration from Ferrari, a trend we’ve seen in recent Toyota designs.
2026 Toyota MR2 Price and Performance
This new MR2 is set to be a high-performance sports car, potentially available in a GRMN version, known for its racing capabilities. The speculated engine output is around 320 PS, making it a formidable competitor in the sports car arena.
Interestingly, the production will be extremely limited, with only 50 to 100 units expected to be made, and potentially only for the Japanese market. This exclusivity, coupled with a price tag between $80,000 to $100,000 USD, positions the MR2 as a true flagship sports car.
Final Thoughts
The anticipation for the new MR2 is building, with enthusiasts eagerly awaiting more concrete details. Best Car magazine has a strong track record of accurate predictions, so there’s a good chance that one of the proposed designs will closely resemble the final product.
Toyota seems committed to celebrating the era of gasoline sports cars before the inevitable shift to electric vehicles. This new MR2 could very well be one of the most exciting releases from Toyota in recent years, offering a nostalgic yet modern driving experience.
Other Upcoming Toyota Models
Besides the MR2, Toyota has many other models in the pipeline. The all-new GR86 is expected sometime in 2025 or beyond, likely featuring a 2.4L turbo hybrid engine. The GR Supra is also due for a major overhaul around the same time, with a GRMN version celebrating the current model before the change.
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury division, is also undergoing significant changes. The Lexus LC and RC are expected to merge into a single model, which would mark the end of the V8 engine for the Lexus LC. Additionally, the legendary Lexus LFA is rumored to make a comeback with a second generation featuring a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine, potentially even a GT3 version.
2026 Toyota MR2 Release Date
The 2026 Toyota MR2 is expected to be released around late 2025. However, since the car is still in the concept stage, we will have to wait for an official announcement from Toyota. The new MR2 is likely to feature a 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a mid-engine layout, combining modern performance with a classic design.
Many details about the MR2 are still unclear until Toyota confirms them. Reports suggest that only 50 to 100 units will be made, making the car very exclusive.
