Toyota has been on a roll bringing its long-storied cars back with the return of the Supra. Another Toyota sports car that many enthusiasts are eager to see make a comeback is the Celica and the MR2. Toyota is now openly discussing its desire to revive these iconic models, sparking excitement among car aficionados.
The automaker has expressed its interest in bringing back the Celica and/or the MR2. While rumors have circulated that the MR2 might be an electric vehicle (EV), recent developments suggest that the direction might be different. At a Supra event in Japan, the car’s chief engineer, Tetsuya Tada, shared some insights into which automaker he would like to collaborate with to resurrect the MR2.
Potential Collaboration with Porsche
To bring back the MR2, Tada mentioned his interest in working with Porsche. This isn’t the first time Toyota has partnered with another automaker to bring its sports cars to market. The Toyota 86 was developed in collaboration with Subaru, and the Supra was brought to life with the help of BMW. These partnerships have proven successful, blending Toyota’s engineering prowess with the unique strengths of its partners.
A collaboration between Toyota and Porsche would make a lot of sense. Porsche has extensive experience with mid-engine sports cars, as evidenced by the Boxster and Cayman models. These cars are renowned for their performance, handling, and engineering excellence. A tie-up with Porsche could potentially elevate the MR2 to new heights, combining Toyota’s reliability with Porsche’s performance pedigree. However, such a partnership would likely result in a higher price point for the MR2, assuming the project comes to fruition.
The Legacy of the MR2
The MR2 has a rich history that dates back to its debut in 1984. Known for its lightweight design and mid-engine layout, the MR2 quickly gained a reputation for being a fun and agile sports car. Over the years, it evolved through three generations, each bringing improvements in performance and technology. The MR2 was beloved by driving enthusiasts for its sharp handling and affordability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a pure driving experience.
Reviving the MR2 would not only cater to nostalgic fans but also introduce a new generation to the joys of mid-engine sports cars. The automotive landscape has changed significantly since the MR2 was last produced in 2007, with advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainability. If Toyota decides to bring back the MR2, it will need to balance the car’s heritage with modern demands, potentially incorporating hybrid or electric powertrains to meet environmental standards.
The Celica, another iconic model, also has a storied past. First introduced in 1970, the Celica was known for its sporty design and performance. It went through several iterations, including the famous All-Trac Turbo, which featured all-wheel drive and turbocharged power. The Celica was a versatile platform, offering both coupe and convertible options, and it garnered a loyal following over its production run.
Bringing back the Celica would allow Toyota to tap into the growing market for affordable sports cars. With the success of models like the Subaru BRZ and Mazda MX-5 Miata, there is clearly a demand for fun, accessible sports cars. A modern Celica could offer a blend of performance, style, and practicality, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
In conclusion, Toyota’s interest in reviving the MR2 and Celica is a promising development for car enthusiasts. Collaborating with Porsche could result in a high-performance MR2 that honors its legacy while incorporating modern technology. Meanwhile, a new Celica could capture the spirit of the original while meeting the needs of today’s drivers. As Toyota continues to explore these possibilities, fans eagerly await the return of these beloved sports cars.
via Motor1
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