Toyota Rocks Japan With MR2 Sports Hybrid Concept

[Plex]

Our second Toyota/Gazoo Racing concept of the day is a revived MR2. Based on a redesigned MR2 platform, the MR2 Sports Hybrid Concept may very well indicate a new production MR2 coming in the future. Then again, it may just be a concept. Either way, it’s an exciting Tokyo Auto Salon release.

Unfortunately, Toyota didn’t extend the courtesy of performance figures for the new hybrid. But here’s what we do know:

The all-wheel drive two-seater features a mid-mounted 3.3-liter V6 petrol engine powering the rear wheels. The front wheels derive momentum from an electric motor powered by Toyota’s THSII hybrid system. Altogether, you’re looking at a cool 400 horses combined.

Shifting is handled through a CVT transmission with paddles. The concept weighs well under 3,000 lbs at 2,866 lbs.

Motorcrave

[Plex]

Video Revealed

Toyota has revealed the GRMN (Gazoo Racing Master of Nurburgring) Sports Hybrid Concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon.

Based on the MR-2, the concept is a four-wheel drive hybrid which uses a mid-mounted 3.3-liter V6 and Toyota's THSII hybrid system. At slow speeds, the concept is powered exclusively by an electric motor that turns the front wheels. When more gusto is required, the V6 kicks in to motivate the rear wheels. With more than 392 bhp (total), the 1500kg concept can likely accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds.

While nothing is official, Autocar is reporting Toyota may be working on a production sports car with a similar hybrid system. Intended to rival the Honda CR-Z, the unnamed vehicle could go on sale as early as 2011.



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