The sporty Toyota MR2 name could be making a comeback if reports are to be believed. An all-new sportscar is apparently in development.

With the world leaning towards SUVs, electricification and sustainability, Toyota appears to be working on its performance range as well as its hybrid offerings. With the return of the Toyota GR Supra, the jaw-dropping excellence that is the GR Yaris and the imminent reveal of a GR Corolla, the Japanese brand is undergoing its own personal performance renaissance.

We already know that Toyota has GR Sported pretty much its entire range, with even the Prius getting macho looks and a sporty suspension setup. Now the Japanese car websiteSpyder7reckons the iconic Toyota MR2 name will be revived and this new model will be pitched against the next-generation Nissan Z sportscar. Interestingly, you’d think the GR 86 would be the de-facto sportscar in the Toyota lineup, but despite its fun-to-drive nature, its outright performance won’t be enough to match its JDM rivals.

If the rumours are true, engine choices are understood to be a mighty V6 engine paired to an electric battery setup. Estimated power output of 298 kW should be adequate to see off most rivals, plus the added benefit of being a plug-in hybrid should ensure silent running in cities. In comparison, the new Nissan Z sportscar features rear-wheel drive, a twin-turbo V6 engine with 285 kW and a 9-speed automatic, as well as the option of a manual. The all-new Subaru WRX STI is expected to be revealed around the middle of 2022, packing a new 2.4-litre turbo motor with at least 285 kW.

So, how much truth is there in the above? Well, we do know that Toyota has been keen to revive its older iconic names and we’ve already seen considerable success with the Supra. Back in 2019,Supra chief engineer Tetsuya Tada told Evo Magazine that Toyota’s strategy would resemble the Celica, Supra, MR2 lineup from the early 1990s. Are you feeling nostalgic, because we certainly are!

If the Toyota MR2 project is greenlit, expect to see further news about it in 2022.

Further Reading

New Nissan Z car revealed

5 Things we learnt after driving the GR Yaris again