Toyota has officially confirmed the development of a new mid-engine sports car. Prototypes are already undergoing testing, but mass production is not expected until four to five years from now, closer to 2030.
Gazoo Racing division president Tomoya Takahashi discussed the project in an interview with Automotive News. According to him, prototype testing has already begun, but the road to the assembly line will be long. The new sports car has not yet been named, but it is a model with an engine layout behind the seats, similar to the classic MR2.
A new 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with the index G20E is being prepared for the car. This engine was previously used in the experimental GR Yaris M concept. According to preliminary data, engineers are targeting a power output of over 400 hp, and in the racing version, the unit may develop more than 600 hp.
Takahashi noted that the 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine with about 300 hp, used in the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Lexus LBX Morizo RR, is not suitable for a mid-engine configuration. The new 2.0-liter unit will be electrified and also designed for use in front-engine models.
Toyota ceased production of mid-engine cars in 2007 after the end of production of the third generation MR2. The return of such an architecture could be a significant milestone in the development of the Gazoo Racing sports lineup.