Mid-Engine GR Yaris Returns as Toyota Aims to Downsize 2.0 Turbo | Carscoops

      Toyota claims that the mid-engined configuration will address the understeer issues present in the current GR Yaris.

      Despite facing initial challenges, Toyota is continuing its work on the mid-engine prototype.

      Engineers have improved the prototype following reports of significant developmental challenges.

      The upcoming MR2 will be powered by a new G20E 2.0-liter turbo engine.

      Toyota is undeterred by a few development setbacks as it strives to launch a new mid-engined model. After months of dealing with substantial issues regarding its GR Yaris M Concept tester, the team has moved forward by refining the prototype and recently achieving a third-place finish in a class at Japan’s Super Taikyu Series.

      The mid-engined sports car initiative has been in progress for an extended period and is highly anticipated to lead to a new generation MR2.

      Currently, Toyota is evaluating its mid-engine capabilities in a specially designed GR Yaris, with optimism about creating a superior package compared to the existing Yaris.

      Toyota mentions that the compact hot hatch tends to wear out its front tires at three times the rate of the rear tires due to its front-engine, all-wheel-drive setup. By relocating the engine to the rear while maintaining four-wheel drive, handling should improve, and understeer will be diminished.

      New G20E Four-Cylinder Turbo Engine

      The chassis design isn’t the only point of interest. While the existing GR Yaris and GR Corolla utilize a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, the M Concept will feature a still-developing 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, referred to internally as the G20E. This engine, despite being smaller, significantly outperforms Toyota’s current 2.4-liter unit.

      Toyota explained, “When compared to the existing 2.4L turbo engine, this engine is 10 percent smaller in both volume and height but produces considerably more power, making it suitable for various vehicles that require high output, from large trucks to sports cars.”

      More Powerful Yet More Compact

      Additionally, Toyota is working on an even more compact version of the G20E, which is expected to be used in several forthcoming models, including a potential revival of the Celica.

      “It is smaller than the version in the technical workshop. It remains a challenge, and success isn't guaranteed, but we are striving to make it even more compact,” stated Mitsuto Sakai, head of engine development at Toyota’s ICE Development Department.

      He continued, “Our main focus has been on designing an engine that delivers significant power while remaining compact. We are developing this engine to enhance combustion efficiency in a compact package, contributing to the creation of better vehicles.”

      Initially, Toyota estimated the G20E would generate around 395 hp, but engineers have indicated that with an upgraded turbo, the engine could potentially reach 600 hp without hybrid assistance. This suggests remarkable versatility for such a small displacement powerplant.

      Can It Manage Temperature?

      Earlier this month, Toyota resolved many previous issues with the race car and competed in the ST-Q class during round 6 of the Super Taikyu Series. The vehicle achieved the fourth-fastest qualifying time and finished third in Group 2.

      Despite the impressive performance of the car in its latest outing, it continues to face cooling challenges. In response, Toyota has incorporated large side arches and air vents into the prototype, but further improvements are still needed.

      While many would be excited to see Toyota offer a mid-engined version of the GR Yaris, similar to the classic Renault Clio V6, skepticism remains. However, news of a new MR2 being developed with the same mid-mounted 2.0-liter turbo four engine as this prototype and an all-wheel-drive system has generated considerable enthusiasm among car enthusiasts.