Toyota Could Build a Tiny, Affordable Sports Car With Just 64 Horsepower

Toyota’s S-FR concept car debuted more than a decade ago, but the little sports coupe could finally make it into production. Japanese media reports suggest the automaker is preparing a production version for next year, potentially as a kei car designed for Japan’s compact-car market.

The Toyota S-FR prototype made its debut at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. Measuring about 157 inches long, the concept featured rounded bodywork, a large front grille, and a traditional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. It could seat four passengers and came with a six-speed manual transmission. Its styling also paid tribute to the classic Toyota Sports 800, a small sports car from the 1960s.

If the production model arrives, it could retain much of the 2015 concept’s retro character while adopting more modern headlights and a redesigned front fascia. Independent Japanese designers have already published renderings showing what the production car might look like, although these images are unofficial and do not represent a confirmed Toyota design.

The production coupe is also expected to be considerably smaller than the original concept. Reported dimensions include a length of approximately 134 inches, a width of 58 inches, a height of 48 inches, and a wheelbase of about 89 inches. Those measurements would put the car within Japan’s kei-car regulations, making it roughly 24 inches shorter than the original S-FR concept.

Under the hood, rumors point to a turbocharged 660cc three-cylinder engine producing around 64 horsepower. Buyers could reportedly choose between a five-speed manual transmission and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Power would go exclusively to the rear wheels, an unusual and appealing setup for such a small economy-focused car.

Toyota would have limited room to increase engine output if the coupe is classified as a kei car. Japan’s regulations cap kei-car engine displacement at 660cc and maximum engine output at 64 horsepower. However, the S-FR could still deliver an entertaining driving experience thanks to its compact dimensions and potentially low curb weight.

Rather than chasing high top speeds or explosive acceleration, the little Toyota is expected to prioritize nimble handling, responsive steering, and the kind of driving enjoyment that comes from tackling a winding road.

For American enthusiasts, the prospect of an affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car is particularly intriguing. However, there is an important catch: the reported model is intended for Japan’s domestic market, and Toyota has not confirmed plans to sell it in the United States.

If the reports prove accurate, the production Toyota S-FR is expected to make its official debut in Japan in 2027. Until Toyota releases an announcement, its specifications, pricing, final design, and production plans should be treated as unconfirmed.