If this is the new MR2 – Take my money!

I can’t help but feel a bit disheartened at the thought of Porsche moving the Boxster and Cayman to fully electric models. For me, that’s as sad as hearing about Paul Walker’s death if you’re a fan of Fast and Furious—a real gut punch. It just won’t be the same. The roar of an internal combustion engine (ICE) and the visceral feel it brings are irreplaceable.

That’s why this new MR2 could be a true hero car, especially if it slots above the 86 and carries more of Toyota’s DNA than the Supra. Don’t get me wrong—I admire Toyota for their collaboration strategy. Partnering with brands like Subaru and BMW has brought some serious excitement back to the sports car scene, reconnecting Toyota with a new generation of car enthusiasts. And let’s be real—20 years ago, every car company knew the value of building cars that stirred passion in young drivers. Now, what do we get? A sports car badge slapped on an SUV.

The MR2 concept, if Toyota can get it made, gives us all hope that these legendary brands haven’t completely given in to the bean counters. There’s still a demand for authentic, performance-driven cars, and this MR2 could be the car that shows it’s possible. If Toyota can deliver on the ICE version with a GR engine at a good price, this could be a generational hero that brings back the spirit of pure driving.

Here’s hoping it’s more than just a concept and turns into something that stands for the future of fun, affordable sports cars.