Toyota previewed its new S-FR concept car in Tokyo Auto Salon 2016 which was held on January 15-17. The new concept car represented Toyota's vision to develop its sports car line-up, along with the current GT86 and Supra successor.
At first, the Japanese car maker revealed its all-new S-FR concept at the Tokyo Motor Show last October. Since then, not much have been heard about how and when the new sports car concept will actually arrive at the markets. But in Tokyo Auto Salon 2016, the concept was again previewed in the form of the concept car.
The concept was said to feature classic sports car proportions. But the concept also aims to establish a feeling of closeness to the driver which is represented by its soft curves. The car is believed to be a more affordable car among Toyota's sports cars lineup.
Speedhunters is sure that the S-FR is a spiritual successor to Toyota's Sport 800 released in the 1960s. And the new concept is believed to be a great model for affordable Japanese sports cars enthusiasts.
The S-FR showcased in the salon is a small, front-engined, rear-wheel-drive coupe, and believed to be very light and responsive. Optimal weight distribution was successfully achieved by positioning the engine close to the cabin to create a front midship setup. The car also has independent suspension, carbon fiber lower skirts and a pair of extractors, with stylish titanium center-exit exhaust.
Previous reports have suggested that this Toyota entry-level sports car will have a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with at least 130 hp. It's also believed that the car would have a six-speed manual transmission with a minimalist feel in the interior.
There are a few changes in the new concept car, compared to when it was first showcased in 2015. As for the exterior, Toyota recreated the previously huge grille and opt for lightweight dry carbon fiber instead. The vented bonnet was also restyled, as well as an addition of the lip spoiler and canards.
Revved also confirmed with their reports that this new concept car for S-FR is lowered about two inches and sports a full aero package, with a wing that appears as a product inspired by a Star Wars TIE Fighter. The car also has two massive vents and latches.
Super Street Online reported that the S-FR concept will be on production later this year. Consequently, the model is predicted to enter the U.S soon after production. A leaked specifications stated earlier that the car would enter the markets with a $12,500 price tag, approximately.
Some specs remain unknown about this new S-FR concept by Toyota, and other factors remain uncertain, but sports car enthusiasts have created a lot of buzz around this new concept. Car enthusiasts are still waiting for Toyota, especially Toyota's Gazoo Racing as the car's developer to reveal more information on the long-awaited concept.
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