MR2 is one step closer to its official launch.
Toyota’s rumors of an MR2 revival may be a little closer to reality. Multiple sources report that the Japanese automaker has just filed applications for trademark protection for the “GR MR2” and “GR MRS” names with intellectual property offices in more than a dozen countries.
One of the most obvious applications has surfaced after being published by the Japan Patent Office. But several other media, including Japanese domestic car magazines, best caralso discovered the same documents through public records.
While trademark and patent protection typically don’t guarantee the arrival of new models, circumstantial evidence ahead of the filing already suggests Toyota is reviving its iconic mid-engine sports car.
Make calls to more than 10 countries
Nearly two decades have passed since Toyota introduced the MR2 to the world. – Image source: Toyota
Over the past few weeks, various automotive media outlets have discovered Toyota’s patent application for the GR MR2 and GR MRS names. While MR2 seems fairly obvious, MRS is less well known by name, but its importance is no less significant.
The second generation MR2 was one of the most definitive sports cars of the 1990s. -Image credit: Toyota USA
While it was still in production, Toyota used the “MR-S” designation to designate and sell the Japanese domestic version of the third and final generation model. Other markets, such as North America and Europe, retain the “MR-2” badge.
Toyota has previewed the prospect of a new mid-engine sports car in 2024 with the launch of the FT-Se concept car. – Image source: Toyota
That said, two versions of this sports car could be baking in the oven. Alternatively, Toyota could continue to sell the car as the GR MRS in its home market, while selling the GR MR2 in other parts of the world.
While the MR2 and MRS parts of the name are nothing new, GR clearly refers to “Gazoo Racing,” Toyota’s in-house performance and motorsport division.
All roads lead to new MR2
Toyota shocked the world when it unveiled the GR Yaris M prototype earlier this year. – Image source: Toyota
Rumors about an MR2 revival have been circulating for some time. But it wasn’t until earlier this year that Toyota unveiled a unique GR Yaris M prototype with a midship-mounted turbocharged petrol four-cylinder engine.
At first, many speculated that this was a test bed for future race cars. But then, speculation about a possible revival of MR2 abounded. Because why else would Toyota be testing a new high-performance mid-mounted four-cylinder engine?
Why else would Toyota be testing its new turbo four-cylinder engine amidships? – Image source: Toyota
In addition, Toyota has been committed to a sports car renaissance. It started with the 86/Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ, which we still call the GR 86.
Then there’s the Supra, and late last year at the annual Rally Japan, Toyota executive vice president of product Yuki Nakajima confirmed they were reviving the Celica.
Toyota launched a new range of gasoline four-cylinder engines last year. – Image source: Toyota
This leaves the MR2 as the only car that needs to be restarted.
So far, details remain sparse. But more speculation suggests that the new GR MR2 may use the high-power turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the GR M Yaris prototype.
The MR2’s resurgence could mean the affordable sports car wars are about to return. – Image source: Toyota
but best car It is speculated that the GR MR2 may get all-wheel drive. Additionally, Toyota has apparently designated “710D” as the model’s internal chassis code.
Expected debut date? Sometime in 2028.
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