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What is the seating capacity of MR2?

The MR2 seats two people. Toyota’s mid‑engine sportscar lineup from the 1980s to the mid‑2000s was built around a two‑seat design, including all major generations and the Spyder variant.


Across its history, the MR2 was engineered as a compact, two‑seat sports car intended for driver and one passenger. No official production MR2 model offered rear seating or a two‑plus‑two layout.


Seating across MR2 generations


Below is a concise overview of the main MR2 generations and their two‑seat configuration.



  • First generation (AW11, 1984–1989) — two seats

  • Second generation (SW20, 1990–1999) — two seats

  • Third generation (ZZW30, 2000–2007), including the MR2 Spyder variant — two seats


In every official MR2 model, Toyota maintained a strict two‑seat layout, prioritizing mid‑engine balance and cockpit focus over additional passenger capacity.


Notes on related models


MR2 Spyder and naming considerations


The MR2 Spyder is the convertible variant of the ZZW30 generation, and in markets where it appeared, it retained the same two‑seat configuration as the hardtop MR2. Some markets used separate nameplates for closely related two‑seat roadsters, but they do not introduce extra seating beyond two occupants.


Summary


In short: the MR2 seating capacity is two. From its AW11 origin through the SW20 and ZZW30 generations—and including the MR2 Spyder variant—the model line has consistently offered seating for driver and one passenger, with no production version providing rear seats.

How much is a 1985 Toyota MR2 worth today?


A 1985 Toyota MR2's price varies widely based on condition, with typical examples in good shape selling for around $12,000. Prices can range from as low as $6,405 for cars needing significant work to over $28,000 for rare or exceptionally maintained models with desirable features. The original MSRP was about $11,194.
 
Price breakdown

  • Average condition: Around $12,000 for a 1985 MR2 in good condition with average specifications. 
  • Low end: The lowest sale price was $6,405 for a car needing extensive maintenance or with title problems. 
  • High end: The highest price paid was $28,875 for a rare or exceptionally well-preserved example with desirable features. 
  • Original MSRP: The original MSRP was approximately $11,194. 

Factors affecting price
  • Condition: The car's overall condition is a primary factor. A vehicle in excellent, original condition will command a higher price.
  • Mileage: Lower mileage generally increases the value.
  • History: A clean history and well-documented maintenance can add value.
  • Modifications: Some desirable modifications can increase the price, while others may decrease it.
  • Rare features: Features that make the car rarer, such as specific trim levels or engine options, will impact its value. 



What does MR2 mean in French?


Midship Runabout 2-seater
MR2 stood for 'Midship Runabout 2-seater', but, sadly, in French 'MR2' happens to sound exactly like 'merde', which, in case you are unfamiliar, translates in English as a four letter word that begins with 's', ends in 't' and isn't 'soot'. The name was rightly adjusted to the Toyota MR for French-speaking markets.



Is the MR2 a 4 seater?


The Toyota MR2 is a two-seater sports car which was manufactured and marketed by Toyota from 1984 until 2007 over three generations.



Why is MR2 so expensive?


The higher-selling MR2s are typically turbos, as they often sell for twice as much as the naturally aspirated MR2s, and some model years are worth more due to limited production. For instance, 1995 MR2 Turbos are often incredibly expensive because Toyota didn't produce many units in the United States.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.