For over a decade, automotive enthusiasts have eagerly awaited the completion of Toyota’s ambitious three-pronged rear-wheel-drive sports car strategy. Now, it appears the final piece is about to fall into place, with the much-anticipated debut of the “baby” sports car within the next couple of years, completing a lineup that already boasts the GR86 and GR Supra.
Toyota’s journey began in 2012 with the introduction of Part One: the GT86, a 200-hp sports coupe powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. This marked Toyota’s return to the affordable, fun-to-drive sports car segment. The second generation arrived in 2022, rebranded as the GR86, boosting power to 228-hp and further refining the driving experience. This cemented Toyota’s commitment to accessible performance.
Part Two emerged in 2019 with the GR Supra, a more potent 335-hp offering. Initially powered by a turbocharged straight-six engine sourced from BMW – the same engine found in the Z4 – the GR Supra quickly gained a reputation for its blend of power and refinement. Toyota further enhanced the Supra, increasing output to 382-hp and, in a nod to purists, adding a 6-speed manual transmission option in 2022.
Now, all eyes are on Part Three: the S-FR. Expected to be released around 2026, this compact coupe is rumored to house a 150-hp turbocharged 3-cylinder rear-wheel-drive powertrain. The ‘S-FR’ moniker itself is an acronym standing for ‘Small,’ ‘Front-engined,’ ‘Rear-wheel-drive,’ clearly signaling Toyota’s intentions for this agile sports car. Interestingly, the dimensions of the S-FR are strikingly similar to those of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the world’s best-selling roadster, hinting at its targeted market segment.
Despite the automotive industry’s rapid shift towards electrification, Toyota remains committed to its rear-wheel-drive sports car vision. While many manufacturers are heavily investing in electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, Toyota believes a dedicated niche market still exists for traditional sports cars that prioritize driving engagement and a connection with the road. This commitment underscores Toyota’s understanding of the enduring appeal of sports cars.
Design expectations for the production S-FR suggest a refined aesthetic compared to the concept. Japanese automotive media, such as Best Car magazine, anticipates a redesigned grille and more contemporary headlights, giving the car a fresh and modern appearance while retaining its sporty essence.
Further solidifying the rumors, the Daihatsu “Vision Copen” concept, unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show, is considered a strong indicator of the S-FR’s direction. Sharing similar proportions and featuring a 1.3-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels, the Vision Copen strongly suggests the powertrain and size Toyota is considering for its new sports car. This collaboration with Daihatsu and Suzuki leverages their expertise in compact car development.
When the Toyota S-FR arrives, anticipated in late 2026 or early 2027, it is expected to deliver a spirited 150-hp driving experience to the rear wheels. With an estimated price point of around 3,500,000 yen, or $22,700, it positions itself as an accessible entry into the sports car realm. While market availability in Europe and Asia seems likely, confirmation for North America is still pending. However, given its comparable size to the highly successful Mazda MX-5 Miata, the S-FR holds considerable potential to resonate with driving enthusiasts globally.
In conclusion, the Toyota S-FR represents the culmination of Toyota’s long-term vision for a diverse rear-wheel-drive sports car lineup. As the final piece of this puzzle, the S-FR promises to offer a unique blend of compact size, engaging performance, and Toyota’s renowned reliability, appealing to a broad spectrum of sports car enthusiasts. The automotive world eagerly awaits its arrival.
