The long-rumoured revival of the Toyota MR2 sports car looks to be to be gaining momentum, with new images revealing a mysterious mid-engined coupe undergoing testing in Japan. Japanese automotive supplier Ogura Racing Clutch has shared images of the prototype, which looks dramatically different from the GR Yaris M concept unveiled at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon.

Unlike the original concept, which resembled a GR Yaris hatchback with its engine relocated behind the driver, the latest prototype features a lower roofline, wider body and traditional sports coupe proportions. However, familiar GR Yaris lighting units, boxy wheelarch extensions and large air intakes suggest this remains an early development vehicle rather than a production-ready design.

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The prototype was entered in the sixth round of Japan’s Super Taikyu endurance racing championship at Okayama International Circuit, competing in the experimental ST-Q class. Power comes from Toyota‘s new G20E 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which is being developed for future high-performance models.

Photos by: ORC Ogura Racing Clutch

As WhichCar by Wheels previously reported, the engine is reportedly capable of producing up to 450kW in racing applications and at least 298kW in road car vehicles, potentially making the new MR2 significantly more powerful than its predecessors. Previous reports have also suggested the new sports car could feature all-wheel drive with adjustable torque distribution, including the ability to operate in rear-wheel-drive mode.

The revived MR2 is reportedly being developed as part of Toyota’s plans to establish Gazoo Racing as a standalone performance brand, with a potential launch around 2028. Toyota has also trademarked the GR MR2 name, suggesting the production model could wear GR branding.

While Toyota has yet to officially confirm the MR2’s revival, the latest prototype suggests development of its next mid-engined sports car is progressing.