New 2024 Toyota MR2 Review: Sports Car Specs, Price and Release Date

2024 Toyota MR2 is one of the most interesting models in the automotive world with the MR-2 designation. The compact mid-engined sports car perfectly embodies the Japanese philosophy of “less is more”, perfectly suited to modern times. Where only a few vehicles still adhere to this principle, one of which is mostly Japanese cars.

The “Mid-ship Runabout Two-seater” (MR-2) has become a staple in affordable Japanese sports cars and while the last generation was a bit lackluster, the new generation will now be more relevant than ever. That’s why the 2025 Toyota MR-2 will become one of the most important sports cars of our time.

Toyota says the fourth generation of the MR-2 will be out sometime in 2025. The Japanese automaker is known for working with other automakers to build sports cars from the ground up. Yamaha has been responsible for most of the high-performance Toyota and Lexus models over the years. Toyota has also been working with BMW and Subaru recently, but the MR-2 will be built with help from Suzuki and Toyota subsidiary Daihatsu. Neither auto company is known for high-performance vehicles, which means the MR-2 will be a very affordable model.

2024 Toyota MR2 once had a reputation for just making boring cars, but the company’s sports car lineup just keeps getting better and better with the reborn GR Supra, the new and improved 86, and the rally-inspired GR Yaris pocket rocket. But some fans are still demanding the Toyota MR2 to return after the Japanese mid-engine sports car was discontinued in 2007.

There have been conflicting reports about Toyota’s plans for the MR2. Rumors had suggested the MR2 would make a comeback, but last year Toyota Europe vice president Matt Harrison denied these rumors when he said the new MR2 was “not a priority.” One year later, rumors of the Toyota MR2 manufacturer are buzzing again.

According to Spyder7 Japan, the development of the new Toyota MR2 has been given the green light. Allegedly, the next-generation MR2 will be inspired by Toyota’s Alessandro Volta (pictured below, a concept that debuted in 2004 at the Geneva Motor Show. If the reports are true, the new MR2 will look sharper and more aggressive than the previous model-looking predecessor). simple.

However, in an industry where sports car sales are on the decline, justifying the resources needed to build a new sports car like the MR2 is not easy. To reduce costs, Toyota worked with BMW to co-develop the GR Supra, which shares components with the BMW Z4. Likewise, the new Toyota 86 was co-developed with Subaru.

According to the publication, Toyota is looking to adopt a similar strategy for the new MR2 and is seeking a technical partner to help revive the mid-engine sports car. Allegedly, Toyota has approached Porsche and Lotus.

2024 Toyota MR2 Review

The Toyota MR2 was first launched in 1984 and boasted everything “roadster”. The Japanese auto giant won accolades for its outstanding creations and thrived for six years before the second generation was born in 1990. This new living generation flaunts a sporty commuter design with luxurious curves.

Dubbed the MR2, which stands for 2-Seater Midship Runabout, the Toyota MR2 can carry two passengers comfortably and looks good while doing it. The return of the new and improved MR2 begins the rise of the three brothers, the Toyota Supra, Toyota Celica, and, of course, the impressive MR2. Combining a powerful V6 with a modern electric motor, the upcoming Toyota MR2 will launch for $52,700, just above the Toyota GR Supra, which will retail for around $40,000.

Known for creating high-quality luxury vehicles, Toyota has set the bar high with the 2024 Toyota MR2, offering a masterpiece that is modern, futuristic and stylish.

Although Toyota has not traditionally been known for its sports cars, over the years Toyota has produced several vehicles in the category. These include the GR Supra, GR Yaris, and MR2.

The last car was produced in 2007 and since then has fans clamoring for a return to the Toyota lineup. Now rumors are swirling that there may actually be a 2024 Toyota MR2 in the works. But how likely is the car to reappear? Jerry has all the details.

Carbuzz reports that a Japanese news outlet has indicated that Toyota is planning to release a new MR2. According to this report, the new MR2 will be based on another Toyota concept car, the Alessandro Volta.

The Alessandro Volta, which debuted as a concept in 2004, was never actually produced. But if current reports are true, it may find itself reincarnated in a slightly new form as the next-generation MR2.

Carbuzz reports that the new MR2 “will look sharper and more aggressive than its modest-looking predecessor,” so we wanted to see what that meant.

2024 Toyota MR2 News

The Toyota MR2 will come with some affordability that will come from engine options. While it would have been nice to see the GR Yaris and GR Corolla 1.6-liter turbo threes in mid-engined small sports cars, Toyota has opted for the 1.0-liter turbo three, which is featured in many Suzuki models. The 998 cc engine typically produces 109 horsepower (81.3 kilowatts) and 125 pound-feet (170 Nm), but 150 horsepower has been quoted.

Since Toyota’s goal was to make the new MR-2 affordable, hybridization was out of the question. Forbes also mentions a six-speed automatic torque converter for the upcoming MR-2, but a six-speed manual transmission is also expected. In terms of chassis, the MR-2 will be based on the GA-B platform, which underpins the regular (non-GR) Toyota Yaris.

Development costs will be split between the three automakers separately, with Suzuki providing the engine and Toyota providing the basic architecture and front suspension, while Daihatsu is expected to come up with the overall styling, which will then be adapted for different brands. Daihatsu is wholly owned by Toyota, which also owns a 4.9 percent stake in Suzuki, so Toyota has an important role to play in the development of the MR-2.

This, however, does not rule out Suzuki’s technological flagship twinning with the MR-2, as Suzuki already sold rebranded Toyota models such as the Suzuki A Cross (Toyota RAV4) and Suzuki Swace (Toyota Corolla). Toyota’s co-development strategy should produce the MR-2 in the $16,500 to $25,000 price range.

From its inception, back in 1984, the Toyota MR-2, or MR-S depending on where you are, was characterized by its simplicity and lightness. In this modern era, there are many aspects that make a car heavier and more complex. With the Mazda MX-5 currently one of the few sports cars to adhere to the old principles of lightness and simplicity, the 2025 Toyota MR-2 will once again be your mid-engine alternative.

The next-generation MR-2 will share a platform with the regular Yaris, depending on specifications and weighs from 2,072 to 2,601 pounds (940 to 1,180 kg). However, the compact hatchback still has room for four people and usable cargo space, so a low-back two-seater sports car based on the same architecture would have a curb weight of around 2,000 pounds (907 kg).

Read next: New 2024 Toyota Supra Review: Pure Performance Sports Car Specs, Price and Release Date

Toyota MR2 2024 Report

While news reports of an expected re-release of the MR2 have been circulating, there are other indications that it may be more of a dream than an actual reality.

One hint that the rumors may not be grounded in reality is a statement given last year by Toyota Europe vice president, Matt Harrison, who said the new MR2 was “not a priority.”

There are other hurdles that Toyota will have to overcome if it decides to return to producing the MR2 as well. It’s a fact that sports car sales have been on the decline for some time, which means it’s getting harder and harder for automakers to find reasons to invest in producing them.

To reduce costs, automakers occasionally combine efforts to produce sports cars. Like when Toyota teamed up with BMW to develop the GR Supra, or with Subaru on the Toyota 86. Perhaps the new MR2 will also be a team effort. Only time will tell.

The Toyota MR2 could return as light and agile sports car—perhaps with a pure electric powertrain. Toyota sold three generations of the mid-engined MR2 in the US between 1985 and 2005.

Akio Toyoda has spoken of his desire for the “three brothers” to emulate the sports car brand triumvirate from the 1980s. We’ve got a new Supra, the 86 replaces the Celica, and that leaves one gap in the list: the MR2.

Our crystal ball remains cloudy on what will be under the hood. Despite being committed to hybrids, Toyota is also starting to develop pure electric models.

And both of the company’s current sports cars have been co-developed with other automakers — the Supra with BMW and the 86 with Subaru — so other alliances are possible.

Whether it has a petrol, electric, or hybrid powertrain, we can safely anticipate any future MR2 will go to great lengths to stick to its predecessor’s lightweight ethos.

Third-generation cars sold in the early 2000s weighed 2,200 pounds and used a 138-hp 4-inline engine; it’s a good weight-to-power ratio to target.

Unless Mazda decides to build an electric Miata, there isn’t much competition for the battery-powered MR2.

Porsche seems interested in the Boxsters and Cayman EVs in five years, but the MR2 will be cheaper. If it did, it wouldn’t be before 2024 or less than $45,000 in 2024 dollars.

Read next: Exclusive: All-New 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser Review

2024 Toyota MR2 Refresh

But it seems that everything is confirmed. Toyota wants to go ahead and bring the MR2 back to life.

They are going through development, and the sports ride is expected to debut in 2024. So, yes, there will be a new Toyota MR2 2024, and the new-gen will be electric. Not only will Toyota change the engine, but they are also planning to create something impressive and extraordinary. They wanted to create an agile sports ride that focused on futuristic, sleek, and modern styling.

It will come with clean, curved edges, enhancing the look and striking features while complementing it with better aerodynamics. There are some renderings and they look really cool! The two-seater vehicle has this luxurious vibe and look.

Toyota is said to be working with Porsche to keep production costs down. They have done it before. While developing the Supra, they worked closely with Beemer. They also worked closely with Subaru on developing the 86. The new MR2 takes inspiration from Alessandro Volta.

As things are still unclear, we will provide more info about the 2024 Toyota MR2 once Toyota releases a new confirmation.

2024 Toyota MR2 Specs

The last MR2 was produced in 2007, and a lot has happened in the world of car technology since then. So what can we expect from a possible fourth-generation MR2? Reports suggest that the new MR2 will be released as a plug-in hybrid vehicle. It will come with a 2.9-liter or 3.0-liter V6 engine and an electric motor capable of producing an impressive 345-395 hp.

2024 Toyota MR2 Design

The 2024 MR2 has a unique look, with luxurious curves and bold aerodynamics. Upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels sit at the back, with slightly larger 20-inch wheels reinforcing the front. The ultra-futuristic beast appears to be given a hood upside down, which extends all the way to the tip of the MR2’s nose. Here, the bonnet meets a massive grille surrounded by sharp headlamps that look like flashy LED light bars.

Sharp edges and flowing curves emphasize the luxurious figure of the MR2 and are even slightly reminiscent of the more refined Bugatti Veyron. The side-mounted air intake makes the MR2 look like an alien. The grandeur of the 2024 Toyota MR2 doesn’t stop there, head to the back and you’ll find a wide but impressive trunk, adorned with taillights that flow all the way to the rear end of the MR2. The iconic Toyota logo sits proudly center stage. The exterior styling of the Toyota MR2 2024 alone is enough to make the gears drool and itch behind the wheel.

Step inside the cabin and the high-end quality continues. The three-spoke leather-wrapped sports steering wheel features small analog gauges on top of the steering wheel. Rich suede covers the futuristic-looking bucket seats, along with leather accents throughout. Striking red stitching runs along the center console and door sills. For a two-seater sports car, the upcoming MR2 offers plenty of room and ample legroom. Special features like an infotainment screen or driver-focused functions aren’t available yet, but we’re sure the 2024 Toyota MR2 will impress, both inside and out.

2024 Toyota MR2 Engine

The 2024 Toyota MR2 combines a significant V6 with an electric motor. The new 2024 Toyota MR2 will hit the market with a choice of powertrains, including hybrid, electric, and petrol, and the 2024 Toyota MR2 is also likely to offer between 295 and 345 horsepower. The publication has revealed that the plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota MR2 will offer a 2.9-liter or 3.0-liter V6 engine which will be paired with an electric motor to produce powerful power.

Gone are the days when big brands launched single-fuel options – the Japanese giants competed with the best and kept their modern and fuel-efficient creations.

Letting buyers decide which engine type is best for them makes the 2024 Toyota MR2 appealing to a wider market and an excellent choice for many car enthusiasts. While Toyota has yet to release specific performance statistics, gear enthusiasts can expect more power, agility, and speed.

Read next: All-New 2024 Toyota Corolla Review: Compact Car Greater Than Ever

2024 Toyota MR2 Powertrain

As for the powertrain, the publication claims the new MR2 will be a plug-in hybrid combining a 2.9-liter or 3.0-liter V6 with an electric motor to produce a combined output of 345-395 hp. That would put it in Nissan Z territory. In Japan, the new MR2 is expected to cost around six million yen ($52,700). This would put it above the Toyota GR Supra, which starts at $40,000 in the US.

If development goes according to plan, the new Toyota MR2 will be launched in 2024, but until we hear something official from Toyota, we’ll have to take these rumors with a pinch of salt for now.

Performance

Since car manufacturers started having test facilities near the Nurburgring, one of the most dangerous tracks in the world, cars have become more capable. That’s all well and good if you care about lap times, but in the real world, that rarely makes for a better driving car. With the base economy car, 998cc engine, and 150 horsepower, it’s clear the 2025 MR-2 won’t be like that.

To put things in perspective, the top version of the original Toyota MR-2 comes with a 1.6-liter, supercharged, inline-four putting out 145 horsepower (108 kilowatts) and 137 pound-feet (186 Nm). With a curb weight of 2,493 pounds (1,131 kg), this is enough for the 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) sprint in about 6.5 seconds. The next-gen MR-2 promises a better power-to-weight ratio, so expecting straight-line performance like the GR86 (if not better) shouldn’t be too demanding.

The pure Toyota 86 was designed to be a driver’s car, and it was the right way to go. The MR-2 would be smaller, lighter, and with a mid-engined layout, which would provide a tremendous cornering advantage. The GR86 will be retired in 2025, saving you the hassle of choosing which Toyota sports car to buy. If you’re looking for a fun machine that’s compact and affordable, your options are the new Toyota MR-2 and the Mazda MX-5, as it used to be.

What we really want to know is whether the engine bay will have enough room for the larger engines as those agile mid-engine platforms will no doubt call for more powerful engines to be tucked into them. The MR-2 has always been a tuner’s car, meaning this new model will be too, and on that front, the Japanese automaker has always delivered.

2024 Toyota MR2 Price

Of course, this power will not come cheap. The expected price for the car is estimated to be around $52,700, which would make it more expensive than Toyota’s other sports cars, such as the GR Supra, which has a base MSRP of $40,000.

2024 Toyota MR2 Release Date

Previous releases hinted at future prospects that Toyota plans to do the same with the MR2. Further, just as with collaborations with Subaru and BMW for the production of the 86 and Supra, there may be the possibility that other affiliates may already be in the pipeline. With rumors swirling around reports that the MR2 might make its debut in 2024, let’s take a look at all the possible technical and beauty upgrades one can expect.

There’s no doubt that with its modern design and tons of power, the 2024 Toyota MR2 won’t be the cheapest sports car. Expected to hit the market with an eye-watering price tag that will likely top $50,000, the MR2 is sure to be a luxury sports car, especially as auto enthusiasts start exploring additional trims and additional features.

It goes without saying that the upcoming Toyota MR2 will be well-received and highly sought after, given the Japanese automaker’s previous releases, such as the GR Corolla and Mk4 Supra.

Toyota has pushed beyond its usual comfort zone with the design of the upcoming Toyota MR2, exploring new frontiers by creating a very futuristic-looking vehicle and delving into a relatively recent era of electrification. We’re excited for more information on the 2024 Toyota MR2 and have no doubt that it will be well-liked when it finally hits our roads in less than two years.

Verdict

The 2024 Toyota MR2 is an exciting addition to the sports car segment, combining stunning design, exhilarating performance, and advanced technology. With its anticipated powerful engine, redesigned exterior, comfortable interior, and competitive pricing, the MR2 is set to make a bold statement on the road. As we eagerly await its release, the MR2 promises to be a thrilling companion for enthusiasts and a testament to Toyota’s commitment to automotive excellence.

Thanks for reading, we’ll be updating more on the 2024 Toyota MR2 soon, so be sure to bookmark our Toyota SUV Models website for the latest comprehensive information.

FAQs

Q: Will the 2024 Toyota MR2 be available with all-wheel drive?

A: At present, there is no official information regarding the availability of all-wheel drive for the MR2. However, Toyota may offer it as an option to provide enhanced traction and performance.

Q: Can I expect a convertible version of the 2024 Toyota MR2?

A: While Toyota has not confirmed a convertible version, the company has a history of offering open-top variants in its sports car lineup. There is a possibility that a convertible MR2 may be introduced in the future.

Q: What safety features can I expect in the 2024 Toyota MR2?

A: The MR2 is expected to come equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and a comprehensive airbag system.

Q: Will the 2024 Toyota MR2 have a manual transmission option?

A: Yes, Toyota is expected to offer a six-speed manual transmission for driving enthusiasts who prefer a more engaging and involved driving experience.

Q: Can I pre-order the 2024 Toyota MR2?

A: Toyota has not announced official pre-order information yet. It is recommended to stay updated with Toyota’s official channels and contact local dealerships for any pre-order opportunities.