According to insiders at the company, Japanese car giant Toyota is in its preliminary design phase for a new affordable sports car model set for launch between 2026 and 2027. This is expected given the S-FR concept unveiled at the 2015 Tokyo Auto Salon. There will probably be cooperation of Toyota, Daihatsu and Suzuki which implies that big car manufacturers and producers come together for this project.
Revival of Toyota's Classic Models
Rumours are circulating about the potential revival of some of Toyota's classic models under its GR sub-division. One of the most talked-about possibilities is the Starlet hatchback, which enjoyed popularity for its sporty yet affordable appeal during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. If these rumours prove true, the Starlet could join the ranks of other revived models like the GR Supra, GR 86, GR Corolla, and GR Yaris. This potential addition should not be confused with the Maruti Suzuki Baleno-based Glanza, which is sold in South Africa under the same name.
Engine Sharing and Cost Efficiency
The speculation about the revival of these classic models has sparked discussions about a production version of the S-FR. Both the revived Starlet and the new sports car could share the same turbocharged 152hp, 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine. This engine is a smaller variant of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder mill used in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla hatchbacks. By sharing this engine, Toyota can streamline research and development costs, making the new sports car more affordable for consumers while maintaining high-performance standards.
Collaboration with Daihatsu and Suzuki
Daihatsu's unveiling of the rear-wheel-drive Vision Copen concept at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon supports the possibility of a joint project between Toyota and Daihatsu. The Vision Copen concept shares similar dimensions and design elements with Toyota's 2015 S-FR concept, including the use of a 1.3-liter powertrain. This alignment in design and engineering suggests that Daihatsu could play a significant role in the development of Toyota's new sports car.
Suzuki, another potential collaborator in this project, could benefit from this partnership by reviving its front engine-RWD roadster, the Cappuccino. Suzuki and Toyota have a successful history of rebadging each other's models in various global markets, which makes this collaboration plausible and beneficial for both companies. By leveraging each other's strengths, Toyota, Daihatsu, and Suzuki could create a new generation of affordable sports cars that appeal to a wide range of consumers.
Anticipated Features and Market Impact
Toyota's new sports car is expected to incorporate several features from the S-FR concept. These may include a lightweight and compact design, a focus on driving dynamics, and a rear-wheel-drive layout that enhances the driving experience. The car is also likely to feature modern technologies and safety systems, ensuring it meets the expectations of contemporary consumers while maintaining an affordable price point.
The introduction of this new sports car could have a significant impact on the automotive market. It would provide an affordable yet high-performance option for driving enthusiasts, filling a niche that is currently underserved. Moreover, the collaboration with Daihatsu and Suzuki could result in a range of similar vehicles, further expanding consumer choices in the affordable sports car segment.
Conclusion
The development of Toyota's new affordable sports car, potentially based on the S-FR concept, marks an exciting chapter in the automaker's history. With the expected collaboration between Toyota, Daihatsu, and Suzuki, this project could bring together the best of each company's engineering and design capabilities. As the automotive world awaits the official announcement and subsequent release of this sports car, it is clear that Toyota continues to innovate and push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of affordable high-performance vehicles. This upcoming model promises to deliver a thrilling driving experience while honoring the legacy of Toyota's classic sports cars.
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