With the all-new Supra about to be unveiled in a few
weeks, and the 86 starting to show its age, Toyota definitely has its hands
full right now. Apart from anything else that’s going on, there have been rumors
about the MR2 nameplate might be brought back from the dead, probably with a
modern powertrain believed to be either hybrid or fully electric, though a
conventional internal combustion engine is not out of the question.
With a rear mid-engine/motor layout, like its predecessors,
the all-new MR2 could turn out to be loads of fun to drive regardless if it’s
powered by fossil fuels or electricity.
One thing seems certain: unlike collaborating with
another automaker, like they did in the case of the Supra (BMW) and 86 (Subaru),
the powertrain will be developed in-house. This is seen as mandatory for the
car to get that Toyota DNA.
The new MR2 hasn’t progressed beyond the discussion
phase. But if it finally gets approved for production, it could arrive before
2025. While we have absolutely no idea how it might look, a number of
renderings by Esa Mustonen reveal a stunning exterior design, with an Alfa
Romeo 4C vibe and design cues from the upcoming Supra as well. And while the
former is unlikely, the latter makes sense – if it ever gets the green light,
that is.
