by Mysterious Teaser from Toyota
A few days before the start of the Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda personally participated in a mysterious advertising campaign. Also known by the pseudonym Morizo, he hinted that he had purchased a mid-engine, two-seater car that would be modified for the exhibition.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing division published a teaser video that, while not revealing details, fueled rumors. The hidden silhouette and name of the car did not prevent enthusiasts from suggesting that it was about the return of the legendary MR2 sports car.
Timing aligns with company plans
This move is entirely consistent with Toyota’s recent applications for the “GR MR2” trademark. Another possible option is the development of the GR Yaris M concept, which was also showcased at last year’s salon.
The video published on X contains a dialogue between Morizo and an employee:
Employee: Morizo-san, I hear you have a new car?
Morizo: Uh-huh!
Employee: What kind of car is it?
Morizo: A two-seater mid-engine sports car!
Employee: That one?
Morizo: Yes, yes, that one.
Employee: What do you plan to do with it?
Morizo: It’s already good, but…
Employee: Want to do something with it?
Morizo: Something else… yes.
Employee: I want it to be ready for the Tokyo Auto Salon, but…
Morizo: Will you manage?
Employee: Let’s exhibit it!
Morizo: Is that possible?
Employee: Everything else depends on the car!
The clip caused a great resonance among brand fans, most of whom immediately thought precisely about the revival of the MR2. However, it is possible that Morizo purchased an older generation car for its further modernization. In any case, the official presentation is expected to shed light on Toyota Gazoo Racing’s plans.
Concepts and hints
The original MR2 was produced from 1984 to 2007 and had three generations, each retaining the key concept: mid-engine and two seats.
Rumors about a fourth generation intensified at the end of 2023 after the debut of the FT-Se (Future Toyota Sports electric) concept. They received an additional impulse at the beginning of 2025 when Toyota presented the mid-engine GR Yaris M prototype. This car is built around a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive.
During last year’s Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota engineers hinted that this prototype could become the basis for a future production car. They did not name it directly but suggested it could evolve into something like an “MR-something.” The company also left visual hints in its GRIP anime series, including a silhouette strikingly reminiscent of the FT-Se.
Focus is on January 9
Besides the MR2, speculation is spreading that the future Celica might also receive a mid-engine layout, potentially blurring the lines between the two models. Toyota confirmed the return of the Celica, but technical details and release timing remain a secret.
The reveal is expected at the Toyota Gazoo Racing press conference at the Tokyo Auto Salon on January 9, where Akio Toyoda will personally present the novelty.
These rumors and official hints from Toyota indicate a deep strategic shift by the company towards emotional, driver-oriented sports cars. The active role of the company’s chairman, who performs under the pseudonym Morizo, emphasizes the personal involvement and enthusiasm of the leadership regarding this direction. In the context of the overall electrification of the fleet, the development of models like the potential MR2 could be an attempt to preserve the “soul” of driving and attract a new generation of enthusiasts by offering them technological yet exciting cars. The success of such initiatives could significantly impact the brand’s image as a whole.
