Toyota Rocks Japan With MR2 Sports Hybrid Concept
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.
With or without hard figures, we know that this one will be plenty fast. [via Carscoop]
Tuesday, January 19, 2010 6:40AM
Q: REGARDING DEFENSE OF CARS IN PHOTOS, did ol' Roger, former GM prez and "inventor" of Saturn, actually consult w/ Toyota exec on name of "Miracle GM small car" in early '80s, thinking he heard "Caw it 'Sat-on'" but was actually told by Toyota exec, after seeing retro '59 Impala 'square-ish 4-door hardtop / mini-'89 Cutlass hardtop design, to "Call it Satan!" (or perhaps "Call it SAT-on")?
and…
Q: IN PHOTO OF OLD TURQUOISE BUICK COMPACT, based upon Chevy Nova, purposely angled by photographer so that brand on hood appears as if it reads "F _ C K" ?
Just checking…