Summary
- Toyota is planning to release an electric sports car by 2026 as a potential successor to the MR2
- The design of the FT:Se concept appears to be production-ready and will likely not change much for series models
- The car may include a unique yoke steering wheel layout and advanced technology like steer-by-wire and simulated gears
- The powertrain is expected to be a dual-motor setup with all-wheel drive capabilities
- The production FT:Se will likely compete with other electric sports cars from Porsche, Polestar, and Caterham and is expected to be priced at $60,000.
Article
Toyota is hinting at the release of an electric successor to the MR2, to debut after 2026. The FT:Se concept, shown at the end of 2021, had a design that resembled an electric MR2 revival. Hideaki Iida, the designer of the FT:Se Concept, mentioned that Toyota plans to release the Lexus model in 2026 followed by the production version of the FT:Se. The updated concept had features that made it look closer to a series model, with a redesigned interior and exterior that hinted at a production vehicle. The car featured GR badges, suggesting the possibility of a standalone performance sub-brand by Toyota.
The FT:Se concept already appears to be production-ready, with a design that may not change much if it becomes a series model. The compact dimensions of the car make it comparable to a Lotus Emira, with a unique design language that may signal a separate visual identity for the GR sub-brand. The car’s design philosophy prioritizes aerodynamic elements that serve a function rather than just aesthetics. The possibility of a track-focused variant with a rear wing was also hinted at. The interior of the FT:Se features a futuristic yoke-like steering wheel and a range of digital screens for various controls and settings.
Toyota has revealed that the FT:Se is equipped with a dual-motor setup that makes it all-wheel drive, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The powertrain is expected to deliver around 450 horsepower to provide a dynamic driving experience. The car will feature a rear bias to mimic the feel of a mid-engined rear-wheel-drive sports car, with controllable oversteer for a more engaging driving experience. Toyota is developing new battery technology for the vehicle, promising improved power density, range, and charging capability.
The production FT:Se is expected to be available sometime after 2026, with potential competitors including the fully electric Porsche 718 Cayman and the Polestar 6. Toyota’s marketing strategy and the final name of the car will play a crucial role in its market success. While it may not revive the MR nameplate, the car will likely draw comparisons to the MR2, a popular mid-engined sports car from Toyota’s past. The pricing for the electric MR2 successor is estimated to start at $60,000, positioning it as a more affordable option compared to competitors like the Porsche Cayman and the Polestar 6. Toyota is aiming to offer a unique and competitive electric sports car option with the FT:Se.
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