For several years, Toyota has been subtly hinting at the resurgence of its iconic mid-engine sports car, the MR2. Recent trademark filings in Japan and Australia for 'MR2' and 'MR-S' have intensified speculation, suggesting a potential official return of the model. These filings align with earlier teasers, such as a mention in Toyota's 'Grip' anime series and the unveiling of a mid-engine Yaris concept.
Toyota's Strategic Moves and the Future of Sports Cars
In a significant development that has car enthusiasts buzzing, Toyota recently registered the 'MR2' trademark in Japan and 'MR-S' in Australia. These strategic filings occurred late last month, coinciding with several intriguing clues from the automaker. In the latest installment of Toyota's 'Grip' anime series, a fourth GR model was hinted at, potentially joining the ranks of the 86, Corolla, and Supra. Earlier this year, Toyota also showcased a captivating mid-engine Yaris concept, further fueling the anticipation.
The company's exploration into sports car innovations isn't new. In 2021, Toyota introduced the electric Sports EV concept, characterized by its distinctive mid-engine proportions. This was followed by the electric FT-Se Concept in 2023, which bore a striking resemblance to its predecessor. More recently, the Yaris M Concept emerged, featuring a mid-engine configuration and a developmental turbocharged 2.0-liter 'G20E' four-cylinder engine. All these indicators strongly suggest a potential return for the legendary two-seater, although the exact timeline and certainty remain shrouded in mystery.
The MR2, first introduced in 1985, enjoyed a production run of over two decades across three generations. Its final iteration ceased production in 2007 globally and in 2005 for the US market, powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower. At its discontinuation, the car was priced at $25,685, which translates to approximately $43,158 in today's currency. While Toyota has been dropping hints for nearly five years, an official confirmation for the MR2's return is still pending. The significance of the MR-S trademark also remains unclear; it could represent an alternative name, a performance-oriented variant, or something entirely different. Toyota has also similarly filed trademarks for a potential Celica revival, underscoring its renewed commitment to its sports car heritage. Given the absence of development vehicles in public sightings, experts predict that a potential new GR MR2, if it materializes, would likely not appear before 2027 or 2028.
Toyota's latest trademark activities serve as a thrilling indicator of its ongoing commitment to high-performance vehicles. The consistent teasing of the MR2's return, coupled with innovative concept cars like the electric Sports EV and the mid-engine Yaris, demonstrates a strategic vision that balances nostalgia with future-forward design and engineering. As enthusiasts eagerly await further announcements, these developments reinforce the notion that Toyota is not just preserving its iconic legacy but also actively shaping the next generation of exhilarating sports cars.
