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Toyota has launched an all-new mid-engined sports car, its first designed from the outset as an open-top car.
At $44,990 the MR2 Spyder convertible is 6.1 percent less expensive than the hardtop model it replaces and 21.6 percent beneath the previous premium model.
The new Toyota's use of an infinitely variable valve timing engine and sequential manual transmission are at the leading edge of the under-$50,000 sports car category.
The MR2 Spyder is also the first Toyota with sequential-shift manual transmission.
It has improved handling, performance, safety and economy compared with the superseded MR2 coupe.
Despite a larger footprint on the road, weight is 231 kilograms lighter than the previous model.
The MR2 Spyder has an all-alloy 1.8 litre VVTi-equipped Twin Cam Multi-valve engine which delivers 103kW of power at 6400rpm and 1 7ONm of torque at 4400rpm.
Power-to-weight ratio is 106kW/tonne.
The new engine is matched to a five-speed manual transmission with sequential shift.
Gears can be shifted using either a short-throw gear lever or E-shift buttons on the steering wheel. The clutch operation is automated, for greater ease of use.
The steering system is Toyota's unique electro-hydraulic power steering, for optimum response and minimum load on the engine.
Interior features include 3-in-i audio system with 6-CD in-dash multi-changer and four speakers.
The interior styling cues are retro/sports, with a three-dial instrument cluster and a free- rack system to mount the audio system.
The new MR2 has an easy to use manual convertible top, with a glass rear window, to optimise rear vision and resist UV degradation.
The driver can open or close the convertible top in less than 60 seconds.
MR2's soft top is a one-hand, two-clip construction and its electric side windows fit perfectly with the hood.
With the hood down and the windows up, it's possible to conduct a normal conversation inside the cockpit even at high speed.
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