Toyota revives MR2 and Celica, Lexus prepares LFA successor

TDT | agencies

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Toyota is set to shake up the sports car market by reviving the MR2 and Celica, alongside a new Lexus flagship succeeding the LFA supercar.

With the GR Supra nearing the end of production and the GR86 discontinued in Europe due to safety regulations, Toyota aims to fill the gap with these new models. Both the Celica and MR2 will feature a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, codenamed G20E, capable of 400 BHP in road trim and 600 BHP in motorsport. The engine debuted in the GR Yaris M Concept, mounted behind the rear seats.

Gazoo Racing chief Tomoya Takahashi hinted at integrating the G20E into future models, making the mid-engine MR2 a likely candidate for production by 2028, possibly sooner due to looming petrol car bans in key markets. The Celica, with a front-mounted G20E and all-wheel drive, may revive the GT-Four badge, suggesting a return to the World Rally Championship.

Lexus’ upcoming supercar will feature a twin-turbo V8 producing 500-600 BHP for racing and under 1300 kg weight. The road version is expected to incorporate hybrid tech, with spy shots showing silent electric starts before the engine kicks in. Spotted at Spa and Nürburgring, it is expected to debut by 2026. While the name is undecided, Lexus has trademarked ‘LFR,’ hinting at its LFA heritage.