Toyota Is Developing a New Mid-Engine Sports Car With More Than 400 HP and All-Wheel Drive

Toyota is continuing to expand its GR performance lineup, and a new mid-engine sports car appears to be part of the plan. While the automaker has yet to reveal an official name, the project is shaping up as a spiritual successor to the beloved MR2, the compact two-seat sports car that remained in production from the 1980s through the mid-2000s.

One of the key engineering details has already been confirmed. The upcoming model is expected to feature a mid-engine layout paired with all-wheel drive. According to Toyota GR chief engineer Naohiko Saito, testing has shown that combining a centrally mounted engine with AWD delivers the ideal formula for a high-performance sports car.

For now, Toyota is only experimenting with part of that recipe. The company's Concept M prototype, which features a mid-engine configuration and rear-wheel drive, is currently competing in Japan's Super Taikyu racing series. Earlier this year, Toyota said the project was still in the first of four development phases, meaning a production version remains several years away.

Based on current estimates, enthusiasts may have to wait at least four years — and possibly longer — before the new sports car reaches showrooms. Visually, the production model is expected to draw inspiration from the Toyota FT-Se concept, which previewed the styling direction for the brand's future electrified performance vehicles.

Toyota has not officially confirmed the powertrain, but industry speculation points to the new G20E engine. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is rumored to produce more than 400 horsepower. It could be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that has already been developed for the GR Corolla and GR Yaris.

If Toyota ultimately brings the project to production, it could become one of the most exciting additions to the future Gazoo Racing lineup. A mid-engine layout, all-wheel drive, compact dimensions, and a powerful turbocharged engine sound like the ingredients for a true driver's car — especially if Toyota manages to keep pricing within reach.

For now, enthusiasts will have to be patient. Toyota is clearly taking its time, but the fact that the company continues investing in sports cars is encouraging news in an era increasingly dominated by crossovers and electric vehicles.