Exciting news is coming from Toyota’s headquarters in Japan: the beloved Toyota MR2 and Toyota Celica are making a comeback in 2026! This announcement has been confirmed by Best Car magazine, a trusted source in the automotive world, and it promises to be a game-changer for sports car enthusiasts everywhere.
2026 Toyota MR2 Getting Modern Twist
First up, let’s dive into what we know about the Toyota MR2. Best Car magazine has revealed that the MR2 will return as a pure sports car, designed and developed entirely by Toyota. Unlike the previous generation, this new MR2 will feature all-wheel drive—an unexpected twist for a model traditionally known for its rear-wheel drive.
The heart of this revival will be a brand-new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. This engine was recently introduced by Toyota’s president and is designed to be more compact and lower in height, making it ideal for a sleek, sporty vehicle.
Despite earlier speculation, the MR2 will not come as a hybrid or electric vehicle but will stay true to its gasoline roots. Enthusiasts can look forward to a six-speed manual transmission as standard, with an automatic option available.
The MR2 is expected to be a high-performance model, potentially featuring a GRMN trim for track enthusiasts. While Best Car magazine’s renderings are speculative, they offer a glimpse of what could be an exciting design for the MR2.
2026 Toyota Celica: A Different Kind of Sportiness
Alongside the MR2, the Toyota Celica will also make its return. Set to debut in the same year, the Celica will cater to a different audience. Unlike the MR2’s mid-engine layout, the Celica will retain a front-engine configuration. It will share the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive but is designed to be a more upscale, luxury sports coupe.
The Celica is expected to be priced more affordably than the MR2, with estimates ranging from $40,000 to $50,000 USD, compared to the MR2’s anticipated $70,000 to $80,000 USD. This pricing strategy reflects the different target markets for these two vehicles.
A Busy Year Ahead for Toyota
2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Toyota, with both the MR2 and Celica slated for release. The introduction of these models is expected to diversify Toyota’s sports car lineup and attract different segments of the sports car market. While some might wonder why Toyota is bringing out two sports cars in the same year, the company is positioning them to serve distinct purposes and audiences.
It’s worth noting that neither the MR2 nor the Celica will replace the Toyota Supra. The Supra’s collaboration with BMW has not resonated with all fans, and Toyota is eager to offer sports cars that are wholly their own. The MR2 and Celica are set to deliver the pure Toyota sports car experience that many enthusiasts have been craving.
My Thoughts
As we look forward to the launches of these iconic models, it’s clear that Toyota is committed to reviving its sports car heritage with a modern twist. Keep an eye out for more details as the debut dates approach, and stay tuned for further updates on the mini Land Cruiser FJ, which is expected to be unveiled this year.
