Toyota is reportedly developing a new small, affordable sports car to compete with the Mazda MX-5. The company aims to capitalize on the success of its GR Yaris, GR86, and GR Supra models by introducing an entry-level performance model. This new car is said to be evolved from the S-FR concept, which was never produced but showcased at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. Toyota’s chairman, Akio Toyoda, has expressed his desire to revive the spirit of Toyota’s ‘Three Brothers’ – the MR2, Celica, and Supra. With the Supra back in production and the GR86 occupying a similar market space as the Celica, the stage is set for a potential MR2 reboot.
Toyota has confirmed plans to launch a two-seat electric sports car based on the FT-SE concept. However, this car is more extreme in its styling and won’t enter production until the end of the decade. The rumored S-FR, on the other hand, is expected to be closer to reality and have a more mass-market appeal while still focusing on dynamic agility. The original S-FR concept featured a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 133bhp and 111lb ft of torque, with power sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. The car’s dimensions are similar to the Mazda MX-5, making it a potential competitor in the small sports car segment.
Toyota’s commitment to developing synthetic fuels and hydrogen-combustion technology suggests that the production version of the S-FR may not feature electrical assistance. Masahito Watanabe, GR boss at Toyota, believes that there is still potential for internal combustion engines in sports cars, especially with advancements in hydrogen combustion. This aligns with Toyota’s goal of exploring alternative fuel options while maintaining the performance and driving experience of their sports cars.
Rumors of the S-FR’s revival gain credibility with the recent unveiling of the Daihatsu Vision Copen concept, an upsized and updated version of its kei car. The dimensions of the Vision Copen closely resemble those of the original S-FR, leading to speculation that the two cars could share the same platform. If a new Toyota sports car is indeed in the works, more details may be revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show in October.
In conclusion, Toyota’s plans to introduce a small, affordable sports car to compete with the Mazda MX-5 demonstrate their commitment to offering a diverse range of driver-focused models. The potential revival of the MR2 through the S-FR concept aligns with Toyota’s goal of reviving their ‘Three Brothers’ lineup. With a focus on dynamic agility and the potential use of hydrogen combustion technology, Toyota aims to provide a thrilling driving experience while exploring alternative fuel options. The upcoming Tokyo Motor Show may provide more information on this exciting development in the world of sports cars.
