Model tested: Toyota MR2 1.8 VVT-i
Price: £17,145 (April 2005)
Date tested: February 2009
Road tester: Richard Dredge

Overall rating: 72%
Whether or not the MR2 could comfortably despatch key rivals is arguable; what's undeniable is that it has a huge amount going for it. It's not necessarily a better package than its rivals – just different.

1: Looks
The MR2 is a looker thanks to a mid-engined configuration and short, low-slung nose. It's also surprisingly compact, and thanks to its very short overhangs front and rear, the MR2 has a satisfyingly sporty stance.
7/10

2: Looks inside
While there's nothing in the cockpit to set the pulse racing, it's well laid out and easy to use. It's just a shame the cabin is so sombre; what's really needed is some brightwork to lift things.
5/10

3: Practicality
Mid-engined sportscars aren't usually practical, but there's just 90 litres of storage capacity here. There's no boot in the rear and the nose houses a tiny cubby hole that's taken up with a space saver tyre.
3/10

4:Ride and Handling
The MR2 is a joy to pilot on a twisty road, with plenty of grip and a brilliantly neutral chassis. There's also beautifully light and precise steering, while the brakes are strong and fade-free.
7/10

5: Performance
The MR2 isn't that fast with a 130mph top speed and a 0-60mph time of eight seconds, but it's the way this performance is served up that makes it so enticing. The engine is free-revving and the gearchange is a joy.
8/10

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6: Running costs
The MR2 sits in insurance group 13 while fuel consumption averages 40mpg. Maintenance costs are also low, as attention is needed only every 10,000 miles.
8/10

7: Reliability
Even hard-driven MR2s give few problems unless they've been really abused, but watch out for damaged rear windows, worn suspension bushes and fractured exhaust manifolds on early cars.
10/10

8: Safety
There are no EuroNCAP crash test figures for the MR2, but there are anti-lock brakes and airbags for both driver and passenger. There are also seatbelt pre-tensioners and side impact beams.
8/10

9: Equipment
As well as remote central locking there are electric windows, a category 1 alarm and immobiliser system plus a one-shot CD player as standard. Leather trim is optional, as are a hard top and air conditioning.
9/10

10: X-Factor
The MR2 is great to drive, refined, reliable and well equipped. But the MX-5 offers greater practicality with great dynamics while the Elise is far better dynamically and more practical, if rather less refined.
7/10