Toyota has been spotted testing what appears to be an early performance coupe prototype at Japan’s Fuji Speedway, drawing fresh attention to the automaker’s future sports car plans. The unusual test mule, assembled from a mix of body panels and components, has sparked speculation that it could be an early development vehicle for either a revived Celica or MR2.
Toyota Prototype Spotted at Fuji Speedway
The prototype was seen completing hot laps at Fuji Speedway in Japan. Despite its unfinished appearance, the vehicle is believed to be a factory development model rather than a custom-built project.
The car features a mid-engine layout, making it unlikely to be a successor to the GR86. Instead, its configuration has fueled speculation that it could represent a test mule for Toyota’s planned return of either the Celica or the MR2.
Why the MR2 and Celica Are Both Part of the Discussion
Toyota has previously indicated plans to revive both the Celica and the MR2. During the Japan Mobility Show, the company unveiled the FT-Se concept. Although the concept was fully electric, it displayed styling and proportions associated with the MR2.
Toyota later confirmed the return of the Celica. Chairman Akio Toyoda also said there was a reason for bringing rally champion Juha Kankkunen onto a special project. Kankkunen is a three-time World Rally Championship winner, with his final championship coming in a Toyota Celica.
The latest prototype was photographed and recorded by Twitter/X user @You_SuiKoyoAZ from the Fuji Speedway Museum Cafe. The photos and video provide one of the clearest looks yet at what could become Toyota’s next high-performance coupe.
Based on the sound captured in the footage, the vehicle appears to be powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with the G20E engine currently under development considered the most likely candidate.
Mid-Engine Design Keeps the Mystery Alive
The mid-engine configuration naturally points toward the MR2, particularly after reports that the name has been registered, fueling speculation about its return. At the same time, Toyota has not ruled out the possibility of reviving the Celica with an engine mounted behind the front seats.
While the final identity of the vehicle remains unknown, the prototype suggests Toyota is continuing work on a new sports coupe.
Development Continues on Toyota’s New Sports Car Program
Toyota is continuing development of its new G20E engine and has been testing it in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series. The company has acknowledged early development challenges but says progress has continued steadily.
At the same time, Toyota has been using a GR Yaris as a development platform for a mid-engine layout, supporting its broader sports car engineering program.
The appearance of this latest test mule indicates that development is moving forward, although the prototype is still far from its final production form. The vehicle remains in the early stages of development, with the finished model still expected to be some time away.
