Toyota’s new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is rumored to be produced up to

Japanese media claim the mill could be used in the mid-engined Toyota MR2 GRMN, combined with 4WD

Toyota is one of those carmakers that has never stopped believing in the potential of the internal combustion engine, investing heavily in hybrids rather than electric cars. According to the latest rumors from Japan, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine Toyota is currently developing could produce up to 592 hp (441 kW / 600 PS) in its top racing form, and that’s without the help of electrification.

The high-performance turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine is rumored to be targeting output of 395 hp (294 kW / 400 PS) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. A less powerful version is also reportedly in the works, with 296 hp (221 kW / 300 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

MORE: Toyota Celica rumored to return with 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive

Furthermore, Best Car Web claims that the racing version of the 2.0-liter engine could produce up to 592 hp (441 kW / 600 PS), which equates to over 300 PS per liter. It’s not clear which race or rally cars from Toyota Gazoo Racing could use this powertrain, but we can speculate on production models.

The road-going engine sounds like a perfect fit for a future sports car. Toyota is reportedly considering both EV and ICE versions of the reborn MR2 roadster, and the GRMN performance flagship is rumored to combine a 2.0-liter engine with a GR-Four 4WD system. The same combination could also be used for the return of the Celica, albeit as a front-engined coupe.

Toyota’s upcoming turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder

While everything should be taken with a pinch of salt, the publication suggests the Toyota MR2 GMRN could be produced in limited numbers, exclusively for the Japanese market. Toyota could also offer a choice between an 8-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual transmission, similar to the existing GR Corolla and GR Yaris hot hatchbacks. As for pricing, estimates are around 10 million yen ($70,000), though that’s not certain at this point.

What about Toyota’s official information?

In May 2024, Toyota confirmed that it would develop new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter engines as part of its announcement of cooperation with Subaru and Mazda on the future of internal combustion engines. The press release did not include any specifications, but said the new internal combustion engines would be highly efficient, powerful, suitable for hybridization, and compatible with alternative fuels.

Toyota says the new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine will be more powerful, smaller and more fuel-efficient than the current 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. As expected, the 2.0-liter engine will comply with strict emissions regulations in different markets around the world. Finally, the engine’s compatibility with carbon-neutral fuels means they can continue to be used after gasoline and diesel powertrains are likely to be banned.

Note: This independent rendering is not publicly reported and is not affiliated with Toyota.

Illustration: CarScoops

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