2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder reviews and
buying guide.
2003
Toyota MR2 Spyder resources:
2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
Toyota’s Mid-engine Rear-wheel drive 2-seater
(MR2) sports car, the 2003 MR2 Spyder, has some significant
innovations and upgrades on show this year. The prime
one is in the transmission, which has been given a six-speed
sequential manual transmission (SMT) option. A five-speed
manual transmission is standard. 16-inch rear wheels
are also new giving the MR2 Spyder better response and
control than ever before.
Capable of 0-60 mph performance in slightly over seven
seconds, the MR2 Spyder delivers the performance and
handling of more expensive sports cars but low maintenance
and fuel costs are typical of Toyota reliability and
value.
Under the Hood
The MR2 has a single engine choice with the two transmission
choices determining the different models; MR2 and MR2
SMT. The optimized powertrain features a 1.8-liter twin-cam
16-valve four-cylinder engine shared by the Celica GT.
The engine produces 138 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and
125 lbs.-ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. Toyota Variable
Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) continuously
varies intake valve operation to optimize torque at
all speeds. The result is very responsive everyday performance
that does not require high rpm for enjoyable sporty
driving.
This performance does not impact negatively on fuel
economy. The MR2 has an aluminum engine block and an
aluminum-alloy cylinder head that helps keep the powertrain
weight low, achieving a remarkable 26/33mpg (city/hwy).
The SMT system is a true clutchless sequential manual
transmission similar in concept and operation to those
offered in Ferrari, Maserati and BMW M3 models. Computer-controlled
actuators perform the clutch disengagement/engagement
as the driver shifts gears by moving the floor-shifter
to the "+" (up-shift) or "-" (downshift)
positions or the driver can shift gears via steering
wheel-mounted buttons. Meanwhile, an electronic throttle
control adjusts engine speed to ease the process of
up-shifts and downshifts.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Style is the key for changes in 2003 including a bolder
look in front with a new bumper and fascia, new dual-bulb
projector-style headlights and integrated standard fog
lights. In the rear, new combination lamps with cylindrical
turn signals have been added while dual-bulb-look reversing
lights mimic the front headlights. Side air intakes
are now color-keyed instead of black. The mid-ship engine
design is emphasized by a rear grill garnish combining
body-color ribs and mesh.
Inside, new instrument panel graphics use finer gradations
in the gauges for a more sophisticated appearance, as
do new chrome-trim rings, which also accent the door
speakers and air vents.
Options include leather upholstery and a carbon-fiber
dashboard as stand-alone options or as part of a major
options package.
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