Toyota Tests New Mid-Engine AWD Sports Car, Possibly Next-Gen MR2

Recently, spy photos of a test prototype for Toyota's upcoming new mid-engine sports car have surfaced. The vehicle features a compact two-door coupe body style, with proportions closely resembling those of the FT-Se concept unveiled in 2023. Visually, the prototype uses headlights and taillights borrowed from the GR Yaris, along with a large front splitter, wide fender flares, and a fixed, oversized rear wing—clearly signaling its track-focused orientation. Additional cues confirming the mid-engine layout include side air intakes on the rear fenders and hood vents designed for airflow management. The A-pillar and door profile draw inspiration from the Lexus LC, while the overall dimensions remain compact, aligning with its positioning as a two-seater sports car. The model will be equipped with a mid-engine, all-wheel-drive system, featuring Torsen limited-slip differentials on both the front and rear axles. The transmission is mounted at the rear and sends power forward to the front axle via a driveshaft, enabling either 100% rear-wheel drive or up to a 50:50 torque split to the front wheels. Power comes from Toyota’s newly developed G20E 2.0-liter inline-four direct-injection turbocharged engine, which will eventually replace the 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder currently used in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. This new engine will be offered in three states of tune: a standard road-going version producing 300 horsepower and 400 N·m of torque; a high-performance variant rated at 400 horsepower and 550 N·m; and a track-focused version capable of up to 600 horsepower. For now, only an 8-speed automatic transmission has been confirmed, with other drivetrain configurations yet to be announced.