This new electric sports car, potentially inspired by the FT-Se concept, could easily outperform the Supra.
The world could use more sleek, low-slung sports cars, and Toyota might be preparing to deliver not one, but two versions of last year’s FT-Se concept—at least, according to rumors from Japan.
This isn’t the first time speculation about a production FT-Se has emerged. However, as with many rumors out of Japan, the details are often vague and sometimes contradictory. Over the years, reports have fluctuated between an all-electric model and a gasoline-powered variant (featuring various engines), leaving us wondering if Toyota has made a final decision.
Some sources have even suggested the idea of two separate mid-engine-style sports cars—one electric and one gasoline-powered. But let’s be realistic: developing two nearly identical sports cars with completely different powertrains isn’t exactly a financially sound move, especially in a niche market with slim profit margins and limited buyers. The more likely approach? Toyota might take a page from the Dodge Charger’s playbook, offering a single sports car with the choice of either an internal combustion or electric powertrain.
The ICE Option
Before diving into the EV, let’s look at the internal combustion engine (ICE) option. According to recent reports, Toyota’s GR division plans to equip this model with their upcoming 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 400 horsepower to all four wheels. If these rumors are accurate, this variant could debut as early as 2026. A mid-engine, AWD coupe with that level of power would definitely add some excitement to the lineup.
Electric Version Set for 2027?
A year after the ICE model, an all-electric version is anticipated for release in 2027. According to Best Car, Toyota’s electric sports car will feature next-generation batteries and dual motors, with one motor at each axle. The base model is rumored to generate around 400 hp (298 kW), while a high-performance version could exceed 500 hp (373 kW).
The EV’s advanced battery technology is expected to mirror that of the upcoming Lexus LF-ZC, which will showcase Toyota’s latest strides in electric innovation. These batteries will use a prismatic structure, designed to reduce weight and significantly enhance range. Additionally, the LF-ZC’s battery modules are thinner than traditional ones, contributing to a lower center of gravity.
While Toyota already boasts the GR 86 and Supra in its lineup, one could argue there’s still room for an electric sports car. The Supra’s most powerful version maxes out at 382 hp, and while a more powerful GRMN version is reportedly on the way, it isn’t expected to reach the 500 hp potential of the electric model.
As for design, it’s unclear how closely the production version might resemble the FT-Se concept, but it’s likely that many of the concept’s key design elements will carry over. The car is expected to be relatively compact, measuring 4,380 mm (172.4 inches) in length, 1,895 mm (74.6 inches) in width, and standing 1,220 mm (48 inches) tall. This makes it only 1 mm (0.03 inches) longer than the Supra, 41 mm (1.6 inches) wider, and 74 mm (2.9 inches) lower. Pricing is rumored to start around 10 million yen (approximately $67,000).
Sports Coupe Revival or Just Hype?
Looking at the growing reports of new GR sports coupes—including a production FT-Se in both ICE and EV forms, a potential Celica revival, and successors to the Supra and GR86—it’s hard not to be skeptical. Could Toyota really be on the brink of a sports car renaissance, or is this another round of ambitious rumors? The industry’s track record with sports car promises has been mixed, and there’s always the possibility this could remain an unfulfilled vision. Announcing big plans is one thing; following through and making them profitable is another entirely.
