Toyota seems to enjoy teasing enthusiasts with potential successors to the iconic MR2. The latest iteration, an unnamed concept possessing sharply defined body lines and a seemingly mid-engine configuration, was unveiled nearly two years ago but has remained stagnant since then. Recently, the automotive juggernaut showcased another model at the Japan Mobility Show, characterized by a robust posture and, surprisingly, a moniker. Enter the Toyota FT-Se, a creation that almost seems too good to be plausible.
I’ll delve further into my skepticism shortly, but it’s crucial to acknowledge that this is arguably the most authentic MR2 successor concept we’ve witnessed so far. It refrains from being excessively wide, and the cabin retains its integrity without being unnaturally melded into the rear deck—a departure from previous designs. The MR2 was never intended to be a supercar, and when compared to contemporary models, it doesn’t equate to a Porsche 718 or equivalent. Presently, there’s a void in the market in terms of performance and pricing akin to the niche the MR2 once occupied.
Toyota
My doubt arises from the seeming improbability of the FT-Se coming to fruition, at least not in the immediate future. While I never dismiss the possibility entirely, the current landscape does not appear conducive for Toyota—a brand known for its cautious, conservative approach—to venture into the compact sports car arena. As recent as February 2020, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent manufacturing challenges, the manufacturer expressed a lack of interest in resurrecting the MR2 marque. The present climate makes entry into this segment even more financially daunting, especially with the arrival of competitors like the Lotus Emira.
Detailed specifications regarding the powertrain of the FT-Se Concept remain scant, except for its electric propulsion, which could position it in the pricing range of Porsche and Lotus models. There have been rumors of a contemporary MR2 featuring the turbocharged three-cylinder engine from the GR Corolla, or even a 1.0-liter powerplant shared with Daihatsu. However, such speculations are not corroborated by this showcase. Introducing a lower-tier internal combustion variant would be imperative if Toyota intends to target a market similar to what the SW20 MR2 Turbo served in the 1990s. Accounting for inflation, the latter retailed for approximately $53,000, indicating that an electric sports car of comparable caliber would have a significantly higher price tag.
If Toyota intends to ascend the luxury ladder and introduce a mid-engined flagship model, the endeavor is commendable. However, this departure from the essence of the MR2, as traditionally perceived, could hinder the FT-Se’s feasibility, signaling that the timing may not align for the realization of such a venture.
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