23:56 22-01-2026

Toyota's new mid-engine sports car: details and specs

Toyota has officially confirmed the development of a new mid-engine sports car. Gazoo Racing President Tomoya Takahashi revealed the project in an interview with Automotive News. He said prototype testing has already begun, but production is still a long way off—it will take about four to five years to bring the model to market.

The new sports car hasn't been named yet, but it will feature an engine mounted behind the seats, reminiscent of the MR2. It will be powered by a new 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine designated G20E. This unit was first tested in the GR Yaris M concept. Earlier reports indicated engineers are targeting over 400 horsepower for the production version, with racing variants potentially exceeding 600 horsepower.

Takahashi noted that the 300 horsepower from the 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine used in the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Lexus LBX Morizo RR isn't sufficient for a mid-engine layout. The new 2.0-liter engine will be electrified and will also be suitable for front-engine vehicles.

Toyota stopped producing mid-engine models in 2007 when the third-generation MR2 ended production. The return of this layout could be a significant move for the Gazoo Racing sports lineup.