2029 Toyota GR MR2MotorTrend - MotorTrendPossible mid-engine sport compactDistinctive GR modelRevives an enthusiast favoriteEV version might be a dudStill just vaporwareThe 2029 Toyota MR2 could revive the brand's compact, mid-engine two-seater for a new generation of affordable sports car buyers. Whether it returns with gasoline or electric power, the mission should remain familiar: lightweight, approachable performance with a character distinct from the GR86, potential Celica sports car, and Supra.AdvertisementAdvertisementRWD rivals include the Subaru BRZ, Mazda Miata, and Nissan Z.What's NewToyota has hinted that the MR2 could return as part of an expanded GR sports car lineup, but the automaker has not confirmed a production model. Recent clues include an "MR2 Mk4" reference in a Toyota-produced video and comments from executives who remain interested in adding more affordable performance cars to the lineup.What form the 2029 MR2 might take remains unclear. Toyota's compact, mid-engine-proportioned FT-Se concept suggests an electric sports car is one possibility, but the final name, powertrain, and U.S. availability are all unknown.This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkWe would welcome the MR2's return. The original stood apart by delivering an unusual sports-car layout, engaging handling, and everyday dependability at an attainable price, and a modern successor could bring something genuinely different to Toyota's GR lineup.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe challenge will be recapturing that character when almost everything about the rumored car remains unknown. Whether it uses gasoline or electric power—and whether it is even mid-engine—a new 2029 Toyota GR MR2 should prioritize relatively small dimensions, sharp responses, and driving fun over huge output or supercar pricing.Top-Ranked Competitors:Mazda MX-5 MiataSubaru BRZNissan ZWhat Will Power the Next MR2?Toyota has not confirmed the next MR2's powertrain, but a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder now appears to be the leading candidate. The automaker is testing that engine in a mid-engine GR Yaris prototype, suggesting a future sports car could place the turbo-four behind the passenger compartment. Output is still unknown, though Toyota could offer roughly 300 to 400 hp and potentially pair the engine with all-wheel drive.An electric MR2 is another possibility. Toyota's GR-badged FT-Se concept previewed a low-slung battery-electric sports car designed around responsive handling, and its proportions prompted comparisons with the MR2. Still, Toyota has not tied the concept directly to the nameplate, and its recent combustion-engine development work suggests the revived car may stay closer to the original formula.How Big Will the MR2 Be?The MR2's history suggests a small two-seat sports car rather than a larger grand touring vehicle. A modern version would likely remain compact enough to feel light and agile, but new safety equipment, performance hardware, and possible electrification could make it larger and heavier than earlier generations.TechnologyThe new MR2 will likely feature Toyota's latest infotainment system, maybe with an 8.0-inch touchscreen standard and a 12.3-inch display on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, voice controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB-C ports should be included.AdvertisementAdvertisementA digital driver display could also provide performance-focused information like lap timing, powertrain temperatures, boost pressure, or battery status, depending on what ultimately powers the car. Toyota already offers 8.0-, 12.3-, and 12.9-inch screens on other models such as the Prius and RAV4.Expect a full suite of driver assistance features, as well. Automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are all plausible.Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is already standard on mainstream models including the Corolla and Prius, though some systems may require special calibration—or offer reduced functionality—on a low, lightweight sports car like the MR2.What Does MR2 Mean?MR2 stands for "Midship Runabout 2-Seater," a name that describes the original car's basic formula. The engine sat behind the occupants, the cabin seated two, and the "runabout" label reflected its approachable, everyday-sports-car mission rather than an exotic one.