At the recently held Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota showed a prototype "GR Yaris M Concept" equipped with a new-generation 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which aroused strong interest in the resurrection of Toyota's MR2 sports car.The engine, codenamed G20E, is said to have a maximum horsepower of 400 Hp and has been developed for future high-performance models.
G20E: Toyota's new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine
Toyota revealed at the show that the G20E engine is an all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine designed to replace the existing 2.4-liter turbo engine for improved performance and fuel efficiency.This engine will likely be the core power unit of future Toyota performance models.Of Toyota's current engine lineup, only the GR Yaris' G16E-GTS engine uses the "G" designation, suggesting that the G20E engine is also exclusive to Toyota's Gazoo Racing performance division.This means that future models including the GR Corolla, GR Supra and even the new GR 86 could be powered by this new engine.
MR2 coming back soon?
Unveiled at the show, this GR Yaris M Concept features a mid-engine layout, with the engine placed before the rear axle and near the body's center of gravity.This layout is consistent with the concept of the classic MR2 sports car, which further triggered speculation about the return of the Toyota MR2. Toyota's engineers and drivers said on the scene that this layout is in pursuit of better handling performance and weight distribution, and is able to show more extreme performance on the track.The prototype's development team also revealed that this M Concept may feature a rear-wheel drive configuration, a clear differentiation from the currently marketed 4WD GR Yaris.
Exploring the limits of the GR Yaris
According to an official statement from Toyota Gazoo Racing, this GR Yaris M Concept will participate in the S-Taikyu endurance race in Japan to optimize the vehicle's performance and durability through real-world testing, To further explore the potential of the GR Yaris, the team will use this 'M Concept' with a mid-mounted 2.0-liter turbo engine to participate in the S-Taikyu race," the official said.Under extreme track conditions, the team will repeatedly perform 'Destroy and Repair' to continually improve this model through feedback from racers."
Toyota's Chairman to participate in the test
It is worth mentioning that Toyota's Chairman, Mr. Morizo, will also participate in the test program and provide valuable driving feedback.The results of the endurance race will provide important data to support the future production version of the car.The GR Yaris M Concept on display is not only a test platform for Toyota's next-generation engine technology, but is also seen as a strong signal that a new-generation MR2 sports car is on the way.Although no official announcement has been made about the MR2's resurrection plans, the prototype's mid-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration are similar to the MR2's traditional design concept.
Toyota Performance Vehicle Future Layout
In addition, Toyota's continued strength in the performance car segment in recent years, including the success of the GR Supra, GR Yaris and GR Corolla, has led to much anticipation for Gazoo Racing's next plans.If the future MR2 is powered by this G20E engine and achieves a strong output of 400 Hp, it is bound to become a competitive mid-engine sports car on the market.
From the unveiling of the G20E engine to the GR Yaris M Concept prototype, Toyota is proving to the outside world that it is ambitious and innovative in the high-performance car market.Regardless of the official return of the future MR2 sports car, this next-generation 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is set to become an important member of Toyota's performance car family.
Info & Photo Sources: Drive
Adrian is an Editor. Psychology graduate with over 4 years in the automotive industry, 3 in front of the camera. Occasionally seen at his family owned tyre shop. He will only buy cars that pass the big bottle test.
