The best product to come out of the Suzuki-Toyota partnership might be happening soon. According to a report coming out of Japan, Suzuki and Toyota along with Daihatsu are planning on a midsize sports car. While details are scarce, the report says that the model will be powered by the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine, presumably the BoosterJet motor, which will produce about 120PS and 200Nm of peak torque. The two-door, two-seater will weigh just about 1,000 kg.
The upcoming midsize sports car is said to measure around 4,200mm and could be positioned as a spiritual successor to the Toyota MR2. In fact, Toyota showcased a Sports EV back in 2021 that was expected to be just that but the new model developed with Suzuki is more likely to arrive sooner. The report also states that the motor will get a hybrid setup to boost fuel efficiency and low-end performance. It’s unclear if this will be a strong hybrid or a mild-hybrid setup.
Furthermore, the reports state that Suzuki is developing the engine while the front suspension is being adapted from the current-generation Toyota Yaris. The styling could borrow cues from the Daihatsu Copen two-seater. However, we expect to see a sharper model with more futuristic lines and bigger air intakes. The model will most likely arrive as a coupe and convertible.
The source suggests prices to be around 2.2 to 2.8 million yen, which is about Rs. 13.66 lakh to Rs. 17.40 lakh at the current exchange rates. Clearly, the model will be positioned above the Suzuki Cappuccino when it arrives. There’s no word on when the model will hit the showrooms and by the looks of it, the two-seater will be exclusive to developed markets. Only if Suzuki or Toyota can consider India too with the model arriving as a potential halo product.
