Toyota’s upcoming turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is being developed with electrification in mind
Toyota has been a pioneer in hybrid technology since launching the Prius in 1997. Now, the company is expanding electrification beyond mainstream sedans and crossovers to its sports cars, with support from Toyota Gazoo Racing.
A new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is in development to power future electrified GR models. Engineered for both hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups, it features a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction for improved efficiency.
GR Yaris Prototype and the Next-Gen MR2
The mid-engined GR Yaris M prototype, unveiled in Tokyo earlier this year, is currently testing the new 2.0-liter engine in its non-electrified form. However, Gazoo Racing engineer Hiroyuki Yamada confirmed that hybrid assistance will be added in the future. Speaking to Autocar, Yamada stated:
“We can use hybrid for future cars with this engine.”
He emphasized that the technology will be integrated into both motorsport and passenger cars to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Electrified Turbo Power for Future GR Models
Currently, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla use a 1.6-liter turbo three-cylinder engine, while the GR86 runs on a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter Subaru-sourced boxer engine. Transitioning to an electrified 2.0-liter turbo powertrain will help Toyota meet stricter emissions regulations, particularly in Europe.
Upcoming versions of the Celica, MR2, and GR Supra are expected to use this engine in various configurations, with or without hybrid assistance. Early reports suggest it could produce up to 395 hp (294 kW / 400 PS) in road models and 592 hp (441 kW / 600 PS) in racing applications, though it’s unclear if these figures include an electric motor boost.
Beyond Performance: Toyota’s Hybrid Strategy
Toyota’s electrification plans extend beyond its GR lineup. Gazoo Racing engineers are also developing new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines that will eventually power mainstream models like the next-generation Yaris, Corolla, and RAV4.
Bart Eelen, head of Toyota Gazoo Racing and motorsports, told Car Magazine:
“It goes back to Toyota’s idea of using motorsport as a test bed for innovation. Akio Toyoda introduced this approach, and Toyota hadn’t thought that way before.”
He added that developing a new internal combustion engine is rare today, but Toyota saw it as essential. The compact engine design lowers the center of gravity while balancing efficiency and performance.
As Toyota pushes forward with hybrid performance, more details on the electrified GR models and its broader hybrid strategy are expected soon.
