The 2026 Toyota MR2: Everything You Need to Know

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The 2026 Toyota MR2: Everything We Know So Far

A mid-engine sports car legend could return very soon.

Published March 2, 2024

Toyota has been fleshing out its sports car lineup in recent years. As of 2024, the brand sells the GR Supra coupe and GR Corolla hatchback in America, and delightfully has kept the GR86 in production for a second generation. And if Japanese reports are correct, Toyota may not be finished with its fun-to-drive machines.

Toyota is reportedly plotting a revival of its mid-engine MR2 sports car, which was last sold in America in 2005. Here’s what we know so far.

What engine will the new Toyota MR2 have?

According to Best Car in Japan, Toyota should give the new MR2 the same 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-three that powers the GR Yaris and the GR Corolla. The report says the MR2 could pack up to 316 horsepower and 304 lb-ft of torque, which would be a bit more potent than the GR Corolla Morizo. And the MR2 would be available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic.

Hemmings believes Toyota could offer a hybrid variant as well. The vehicle would be distinct from the “high-performance sports BEV” Toyota previewed in 2023 that could arrive later.

toyota ft-se sports car concept with computer generated background — Toyota’s FT-Se concept from 2023 may herald a future electric sports car rather that arrives after the new MR2.

The new MR2 should use a rear mid-engine layout

Best Car says the new MR2 will be a low-slung sports car with a “surprisingly tall” A-pillar. It should have a rear mid-engine layout like its predecessor. The report says Toyota is still considering two body styles for it. One “two-decked” option would look more like the first MR2 with a distinct trunk area. The other would look more like a Porsche 718 Cayman. The estimated weight of the vehicle is 2,866 pounds.

When will the new Toyota MR2 arrive?

Best Car estimates a release date of 2026 for the new MR2. We don’t know yet whether it will be launched in America. Automotive News does not have an MR2 listed in its future product pipeline for Toyota.

How much will the Toyota MR2 cost?

Best Car estimates the new Toyota MR2 will cost between 10 and 11 million yen, which is between $65,000 and $73,000 at the present exchange rate. However, American pricing — if it arrives here — could be different. Considering that pricing would stack it up against the likes of the Porsche 718 Cayman, we’re betting Toyota will find a way to offer it for below $50K in the States … again, if it winds up coming here.