Toyota Plans MX-5 Miata Rival for Sports Car Lineup

After years of anticipation, Toyota is set to complete its rear-wheel-drive sports car trio with an exciting new addition. The first part of this journey began in 2012 with the 200-hp GT86, later rebranded as the GR86 in 2022, boasting an upgraded 228-hp engine. Part two arrived in 2019 with the 335-hp GR Supra, which was later boosted to 382-hp and even offered a 6-speed manual option in 2022.

Now, Toyota is gearing up for part three, expected to debut by 2026. Codenamed the ‘S-FR,’ this compact coupe is rumored to pack a punch with a 150-hp turbocharged 3-cylinder rear-wheel-drive powertrain. The ‘S-FR’ moniker stands for ‘Small,’ ‘Front-engined,’ ‘Rear-wheel-drive,’ and comparisons with the Mazda MX-5 Miata in terms of size and appeal are inevitable.

Despite the current trend towards electrification in the automotive industry, Toyota remains committed to the niche market for rear-wheel-drive sports cars. They are confident in the enduring appeal of these vehicles, and their track record speaks for itself.

Collaboration has been key to Toyota’s sports car lineup, with partnerships with Subaru for the GT86 and GR86, and BMW for the GR Supra. For the ‘S-FR,’ Toyota is teaming up with Daihatsu and Suzuki, Japan’s top small car producers. Design-wise, the ‘S-FR’ is expected to feature a smaller, more stylish grille and headlights, according to reports from Japan’s Best Car magazine.

Evidence of Toyota’s collaboration with Daihatsu and Suzuki can be seen in the Daihatsu “Vision Copen” concept, unveiled last October at the Japan Mobility Show. This concept, powered by a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels, shares similarities with what is expected to power the new Toyota sports car.

When the ‘S-FR’ hits showrooms in late 2026 or early 2027, it will offer a thrilling 150-hp driving experience, priced around 3,500,000 yen or $22,700. The coupe is expected to target markets in Europe and Asia, with discussions ongoing about its potential release in North America. Given its size and performance, the ‘S-FR’ could well be the next beloved sports car in Toyota’s lineup.