Change of course: Toyota maintains thermal engines for a reason

toyotaknown for its innovation and automotive heritage, has left many speechless with its recent announcement in the Tokyo Motor Show.

Read also: Hyundai Venue: the cheapest in the United States from Hyundai

Although the industry is moving rapidly towards electrification, Toyota has decided to take an unexpected turn in the plans for the rebirth of one of its most iconic sports cars: the MR2.

You can read: Scandal at Toyota: it was fined for falsifying data

This model, which was initially going to be an electric car, is now scheduled to return with a centrally mounted turbocharged gasoline engine.

During the event, Naohiko Saito, head of engineering at Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR), shared details about this decision. “This engine represents the beginning of a new development that will come from racing before mass production. We always learn a lot with this way of working”declared Saito.

The statement reaffirms Toyota’s commitment to linking racing technology with its series production, an approach that has borne fruit in previous models.

From the FT-Se Concept to the GR Yaris M Concept

The future MR2 is largely based on the FT-Se Concept prototype presented in 2023which was initially designed as an electric sports car.

However, the brand has chosen to equip it with an internal combustion engine inspired by the GR Yaris M Concept, a vehicle that has been tested in the Japanese Super Taikyu racing championship.

This decision not only stands out for its audacity, but also for its focus on efficiency and performance.

The turbocharged four-cylinder engine promises between 300 and 400 horsepowerdepending on the version. Its centrally positioned configuration, combined with all-wheel drive, marks a new chapter in the evolution of the MR2.

“This setup is new to us, but “During our initial testing we have seen that the combination of mid-engine and all-wheel drive offers the best results for high-performance driving.”Saito explained.

A change aligned with market trends

Although Toyota leads in electrification with models like the Prius and the bZ4Xthis decision reflects a growing trend among sports car manufacturers to maintain combustion engines in certain iconic models.

Porsche, for example, has followed a similar strategy by preserving thermal engines in the 911although it develops electric versions for other segments.

Toyota’s change of direction also responds to the demands of driving enthusiasts, who value the distinctive experience and sound of internal combustion engines.

Besides, The use of competition-proven technology ensures that the new MR2 will be a high-performance vehicle.

Innovation from the competition slopes

The choice to test the engine in Super Taikyu competitions reflects Toyota’s commitment to excellence.

This approach not only optimizes powertrain performance and reliability, but also ensures that the MR2 offers a superior driving experience.

The GR Yaris M Concept, used as a test bed, has proven to be an ideal platform for experimenting with innovative configurations. Feedback gained from racing translates directly into improvements for production models, ensuring that the future MR2 meets the expectations of the most demanding drivers.

The legacy of the MR2 and its promising future

The Toyota MR2, first launched in 1984stood out for its compact design, central engine and dynamic behavior. Its return, adapted to current needs and demands, promises to maintain that legacy while incorporating modern technology.

With the compact sports car market constantly evolving, the new MR2 could fill an important niche. Its mid-engine and all-wheel drive configuration puts it in a unique category, ready to compete with models from rival brands.

Toyota’s announcement at the Tokyo Motor Show marks a turning point in its strategy. The decision to retain combustion engines in iconic models such as the MR2 underlines the importance of balancing tradition and innovation.

As more details develop about this highly anticipated sports car, it is clear that Toyota remains committed to delivering exciting, high-performance vehicles.