Toyota’s 400HP Mid-Engine MR2 Prototype With GR Yaris Lights: New Spy Shots Reveal Toyota’s MR2 Development Mule Running A 2.0-Litre Four-Cylinder With All-Wheel Drive At Fuji Speedway
According to The Drive, a spy video captured on July 22, 2026 shows Toyota testing a compact mid-engine coupe at Fuji Speedway, featuring pronounced box flares, large vents behind the doors, and GR Yaris headlights and taillights — all pointing directly at the long-rumoured MR2 revival.
The exhaust note in the footage belongs to a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, not the three-cylinder unit from the production GR Yaris. This motor is expected to produce approximately 400 horsepower and is the same unit Toyota has been running in its internal “Concept M” development mule.
Crucially, Gazoo Racing engineering chief Naohiko Saito confirmed to Auto Express that the production car will pair its mid-mounted engine with all-wheel drive — a first for Toyota in this configuration, which testing has shown delivers the best layout for high-performance driving.
Toyota has been developing this car in public view through motorsport, building credibility with every lap. This is not a vague concept anymore.
This is a car being honed in front of the world. Check out our previous coverage of Toyota on The Trusted Times.
