Toyota has unveiled the GR Yaris M Concept, a mid-engined iteration of its rally-inspired hot hatch, and it’s turning heads.
Set to compete in Japan's Super Taikyu racing series, the concept car brings a potential sneak peek of what could be a new Toyota MR2 successor.
A mid-engined transformation
Unlike the standard GR Yaris, this concept relocates the engine to the middle, behind the driver.
Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the GR Yaris M Concept departs from the 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine found in the production model.
Toyota hasn’t disclosed exact performance figures, but with the standard model delivering up to 224kW, the 2.0-litre unit could potentially push output closer to 280kW.
This modification purportedly enhances weight distribution, handling and performance - hallmarks of mid-engined sports cars.
While Toyota describes the concept as an experiment to "further explore the potential of the GR Yaris", its racing-focused development suggests it could be a precursor to something more ambitious.
The concept will endure the rigorous Super Taikyu series, where Toyota’s philosophy of "driver-first carmaking" will be tested to the limit.
"Cars are repeatedly driven to failure and then repaired in the extreme conditions of racing," Toyota explained. This relentless testing mirrors the development of the original GR Yaris, which earned acclaim for its robust design.
Among the drivers is Akio Toyoda, Toyota’s former CEO, known by his racing alias, 'Morizo' (as seen in the Lexus LBX Morizo RR). His involvement highlights the personal passion driving this project.
Could this be the next MR2?
The GR Yaris M Concept may not be labelled an MR2, but its mid-engine configuration and high-performance potential align closely with the characteristics of Toyota’s iconic sports car.
Building on the Yaris platform could offer a cost-effective approach to reviving the MR2 while leveraging Toyota’s existing technologies.
For now, the GR Yaris M Concept remains a compelling prototype. But with its impressive specs and relentless testing, it might just pave the way for Toyota’s next performance icon.