Toyota Files GR MR2 and GR MR-S Trademarks
The Japanese automaker Toyota recently registered the trademarks GR MR2 and GR MR-S, fueling rumors about a possible return of the legendary sports car. These actions align with the company’s previous hints about developing a fourth-generation car and indicate serious intentions.
Here are the key points regarding these events:
Registration Details and Possible Timelines
Reportedly, Toyota filed an application for the GR MR2 trademark with the Japan Patent Office on November 25, 2025, for use on vehicles or parts. Just two days later, on November 27, the company registered the GR MR-S trademark with the Australian Patent Office. This may signal an intent to use different names for the sports car depending on the region.
Although Toyota has not officially confirmed plans for a new MR2, these actions are a strong hint that the model is under development. Based on the timing of the filings, the new sports car could hit the roads in 2027 or 2028.
A Brief History of the MR2 Model
The original MR2 was introduced in 1984 as an affordable two-seater sports car with a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The second generation, which appeared in 1989, earned the nickname “the poor man’s Ferrari.” The third generation, debuting in 1999, transformed into a soft-top roadster.
The last version of the model was sold under different names depending on the market: MR-S in Japan, MR2 Spyder in America and Australia, MR2 Roadster in the UK and most European countries, and MR Roadster in France and Belgium.
Production was discontinued in 2007, and Toyota never introduced a direct successor to the mid-engine roadster.
Hints at a Future Revival
Rumors about the MR2’s return began to spread after Toyota unveiled the FT-Se (Future Toyota Sports electric) concept at the Japan Mobility Show in December 2023, primarily due to its design and proportions. Although the concept was electric, subsequent speculation suggested the production version might receive a traditional internal combustion engine.
In January 2025 at the Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota showed the GR Yaris M prototype with a mid-mounted turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive. Engineers hinted at a future production model, calling it “MR-something,” and despite certain technical challenges, development continues.
Earlier, Japanese media reported that the future GR Celica might also switch to a mid-engine layout, blurring the lines between it and the MR2 successor. However, the new trademark registrations indicate that Toyota is actively considering reviving both models, practically confirming the hints hidden in the company’s GRIP anime series.
Illustrations: Thanos Pappas for CarScoops
These steps by Toyota are taking place against the backdrop of a general trend of reviving iconic sports models, often in the form of modern interpretations with improved technology. The market for small, affordable sports cars remains niche but has a loyal audience, and the emergence of a new MR2 could revitalize this segment. The success of models like the GR Yaris has shown that there is demand for cars with character that combine driving pleasure with everyday practicality. The revival of the MR2, especially if it retains key attributes of affordability and mid-engine layout, could be a significant event for enthusiasts waiting for a new “people’s” sports car.