Toyota's Gazoo Racing team has been developing a mid-engined GR Yaris prototype for three years, and the project is now in its final phase.
This clears the way for the all-new MR2 and Celica, both expected to use the same mid-engine hardware.
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Unlike typical secretive development, Toyota has openly documented the challenges, releasing a 90-minute documentary on the process.
The prototype, called Concept M, is based on the GR Yaris but with a mid-engine layout.
The car retains all-wheel drive with front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials.
A prop shaft runs from the rear-mounted transmission to the front axle, allowing up to half the torque to be sent forward.
Engineers tried a 70/30 front split but found it caused understeer.
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New Engine and Endurance Testing
The prototype uses Toyota's new G20E 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, expected to debut in the MR2 and Celica.
It is more powerful and smaller than the 2.4-liter turbo four in other models, targeting over 100 horsepower per cylinder.
Cooling has been a key challenge, but the team appears to have resolved it.
Six generations of prototypes have been built, with the latest Gen-6 mule competing in a 24-hour race at Fuji Speedway as part of the Super Taikyu Series.
GR chief engineer Naohiko Saito told Car and Driver that at least 14 more iterations are planned, involving over 500 Gazoo Racing employees.
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Early reports on the new engine are positive, raising excitement for the revived MR2 and Celica.
