Toyota puts MX-5 in its scopes with the S-FR Sport car
Words: Alex Schultz | Photos: Supplied
Almost a decade ago at the Tokyo Motor Show Toyota presented a competitor to Mazda’s MX-5 sports car named the S-FR concept (that’s ‘Small’, ‘Front-engined’, ‘Rear-wheel drive’). The car is almost identical in size to the MX-5, however, unlike the MX-5 it’s believed the S-FR will offer two-plus-two seating in a body that’s even smaller and lighter than the Toyota 86.
According to Forbes, Toyota had approved the S-FR for production in late 2026 – early 2027.
Its believed the S-FR will use a 1.3L three-cylinder turbo producing about 150hp.
Toyota joined forces with Subaru for its first return to making sports cars with the GT86 and GR86. Then together with BMW, it brought back the Supra. now for its third sports car the S-FR, Toyota has partnered with Daihatsu (a subsidiary of Toyota) and Suzuki who both have a great deal of experience at building small cars.
According to Japanese car magazine Best Car, the design of the S-FR is expected to differ from the Racing Concept pictured here, specifically the headlights and a smaller, tighter front grill. I’d wager a few other things will change on the exterior and the on the inside too.
There’s also the possibility of Toyota producing a hotter GR version which may get some go-fast bits like the Racing concept pictured here.
Best Car Magazine says proof that Toyota is working on a new sports car with Daihatsu is the “Vision Copen” that was presented at last year’s Japan Mobility Show. It was powered by a 1.3L turbocharged three-cylinder engine sending power to the rear wheels. Coincidence? Best Car thinks not.
The S-FR is expected to sell for around 3,500,000 yen or $37,500 NZD with no word on whether its destined for out shores.
