Toyota Could Finally Bring The Perfect S-FR Concept To Production With The Help Of Daihatsu - Jalopnik

A concept returns to view

Toyota introduced the S-FR concept in 2015 as a compact, two-door roadster intended to compete with the Miata and sit below the Scion FR-S. The car then disappeared from view.

Japanese outlet Response now reports that Toyota is considering putting the S-FR into production. The report suggests sales could begin as early as 2027, though Toyota has not confirmed the plan in the supplied account.

A smaller Daihatsu foundation

The reported version would differ from the original concept, using the platform of a third-generation Daihatsu Copen. Daihatsu showed its K-Open concept last year as a preview of a new Copen.

The S-FR would be smaller than the car Toyota first presented. The report suggests Toyota could adapt the subsidiary’s kei-car platform and add S-FR styling.

Engineering changes would be substantial

Earlier Copens used front-wheel drive. An S-FR version would need a rear-wheel-drive platform to match its sports-car character, according to the article. The 2015 concept had a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a rear seat. The account says the engine would not fit kei-car requirements and considers the rear seat unlikely; the design would also have to shrink.

U.S. availability remains uncertain

A kei-car-sized S-FR may be less likely to reach the United States, the article says. It notes that Toyota is already bringing one kei vehicle to the country, but provides no confirmation that the S-FR would follow.

The writer hopes Response’s report proves accurate and suggests a U.S. version might arrive as a low-speed vehicle, like the KEI-01. That possibility remains speculative.