by New Toyota Prototype Spotted Testing in Japan
Toyota continues development of a mid-engine car in the GR lineup. It is not yet known whether it will be called Celica or MR2, but the car itself is already approaching reality. Recently in Japan, a prototype or test mule was spotted during track testing, which is likely the future MR2. This is no longer just the GR Yaris M concept, which served as an experimental platform.
First Images and Video of the Mysterious Coupe
Several photos and a short video of the mysterious Toyota prototype appeared on X thanks to user @You_SuiKoyoAZ and quickly went viral. The car has a sporty appearance and a two-door coupe body. It uses headlights and taillights from the Yaris model, deep bumpers, a pronounced splitter, widened wheel arches, and a fixed rear wing.
It is not yet clear whether this is a mule built from parts of other models or an early prototype. In any case, it looks assembled from available components. The overall proportions resemble the 2023 Toyota FT-Se concept car, which was believed to preview the future MR2.
Mid-Engine Layout and All-Wheel Drive
Large air intakes on the rear fenders and a deep ventilation opening on the hood confirm the presence of a centrally located engine. This aligns with the concept of the 2025 GR Yaris M Concept. The prototype also differs from the Gazoo Racing rally car seen on WRC tracks earlier this year.
The original MR2 had a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, but the new car is rumored to feature a mid-engine, all-wheel-drive chassis with Torsen limited-slip differentials at the front and rear. The transmission is located at the rear, and a driveshaft sends power to the front axle. Engineers stated that in the test Yaris, the car can deliver all power to the rear axle or up to half to the front. It is not yet known whether Toyota will offer only an 8-speed automatic or also a manual transmission.
New G20E Engine
The new MR2 and/or Celica will feature the G20E engine — a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with direct injection. It is set to replace the 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine from the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. Toyota claims the new unit is more powerful and compact than the 2.4-liter turbo engine already used in the lineup. Standard versions are expected to produce around 300 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, while hot versions may deliver up to 400 hp and 550 Nm. A racing version of this engine, producing up to 600 hp, is also planned.
Future Prospects
We hope Toyota will soon share more detailed information about the expansion of the GR lineup and perhaps introduce a new concept. For now, we make do with random sightings of mules and prototypes, trying to understand what lies beneath temporary body panels and camouflage film.
A video of the prototype in motion has also been published online, sparking even more discussion among enthusiasts.
The appearance of this prototype indicates that Toyota is serious about reviving legendary sports models. The use of a mid-engine layout with all-wheel drive and the new powerful G20E engine suggests that the new model is meant to be a worthy successor to both the MR2 and Celica. All that remains is to wait for official confirmation of the name and technical specifications, but it is already clear that Toyota is preparing something truly exciting for sports car fans.
