TOYOTA is reportedly set to revive an iconic model after 20 years – and it’ll make you nostalgic for the ’90s.
The popular model hasn’t been seen in showrooms since 2007 but could be due a comeback if the rumours are to be believed.
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A “reliable source” claimed that the motors giant will bring back the MR2 range in the near future, according to Japanese magazine Best Car.
The report stated that it would be Toyota’s last petrol-powered sports car before the brand shifts to its plans for an all-electric future.
The source suggested that it may be powered by the same engine which is found in the GR versions of both the Yaris and Corolla.
It is also apparently set to be a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive setup, in contrast to the brand’s recent trend of front-engined hatchbacks.
Japanese manufacturers are seemingly trying to ride a wave of nostalgia for their ’90s-era lineups to boost sales ahead of the often difficult transition to EVs.
In recent years, Toyota itself has brought back the Supra, while Acura revived its Integra model.
The original MR2 was produced between 1984 and 2007 as a sporty, fun ride which could still offer top-notch fuel economy.
It won much acclaim, including being named Import Car of the Year by Motor Trend in 1985 and reaching number eight in Sports Car International’s Top Sports Cars of the 1980s list.
However, its rumoured descendant may be harder to get hold of than fans would hope.
Not only is the alleged revival reportedly not slated until 2026, it could also be made exclusively for the Japanese market.
This would be a major blow to Toyota diehards in Europe, the US and Australia.
Toyota declined to comment.
It comes after a boy racer who started driving aged seven geared up for a crack at a world record.
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