Review: Toyota ZZW30.I MR2 (2000-02)

Overview

Released in October 2000, the Toyota ZZW30 Series I (ZZW30.I) MR2 was a two-seat, mid-engined convertible. Manufactured in Sagamihara, Japan, the rear-wheel drive Toyota MR2 was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (Toyota’s 1ZZ-FE) that was mated to five-speed semi-automatic (or sequential manual) transmission which had a fully automated clutch. As such, gear shifts could be performed via the short-throw gear lever or ‘E-shift’ buttons on the steering wheel.

1ZZ-FE Engine

The MR2’s 1.8-litre 1ZZ-FE four-cylinder petrol engine had an all-alloy cylinder block with cast iron liners, an alloy cylinder head, sequential electronic fuel injection, high-strength connecting rods, double overhead camshafts (chain-driven), four valves per cylinder, variable inlet valve timing (Toyota’s VVT-i), a compression ratio of 10.0:1 and a four-into-two exhaust system with stainless steel headers.

Dimensions and body

Compared to the SW20 MR2 , the ZZW30 MR2 was 285 mm shorter (at 3885 mm), 5 mm narrower (1695 mm), 5 mm taller (1240 mm) and had a 50 mm longer wheelbase (2450 mm). Partially due to the extensive use of high-tensile steel – accounting for 50.7 per cent of the ‘body in white’ mass – the MR2 had a kerb mass of just 975 kg.

The MR2 was fitted with a glass rear window and the manually-operated convertible roof had a one-hand, two-clip construction and was capable of being raised or lowered within 60 seconds.

Suspension and steering

The MR2 had MacPherson strut front suspension with L-shaped lower arms and MacPherson strut rear suspension with dual lower link arms. The MR2 was also fitted with a speed-sensitive electro-hydraulic power steering (EHPS) system.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment included dual front airbags and ABS.

Features: MR2

Standard MR2 features included 15-inch front and 16-inch rear alloy wheels (with 185/55 R15 81V front and 205/50 R15 85V tyres), a four speaker sound system with six-stack CD player, contoured sports seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows power mirrors and an immobiliser.

The MR2 was also fitted with a limited slip differential.

Related links

• Press Kit: Toyota ZZW30.I MR2 Spyder (October 2000)

Review: Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 (2002-05)

Overview

Released in October 2002, the Toyota ZZW30 Series II (ZZW30.II) MR2 introduced a six speed transmission and improved safety equipment. Rear suspension braces and recalibrated dampers were also introduced for improved ride quality and stability.

Visually, the Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 could be identified by its new projector type low-beam headlights, integrated front fog lamps, body-coloured side air intake, rear grille, larger exhaust pipe diffuser, rear combination lights and larger rear wheels (16-inch). Inside, the MR2 had new trim, graphics, a Fujitsu Ten audio unit and subtle changes to the centre console and heater/ventilation controls.

Safety equipment

Compared to its ZZW30.I predecessor, safety equipment was upgraded with traction control and electronic stability control fitted as standard.

MR2 Sportivo kit

From January 2003, a Sportivo option kit was available, which added front, side and rear skirts and a rear spoiler; a removable hardtop was also available.

February 2004: MR2 upgrade

Toyota MR2s produced from February 2004 benefited from a technical upgrade which increased body rigidity and the ability of the body structure to disperse impact forces. New components included front under-members and momentum cancellers between the front side members and the front strut towers, a bumper brace, a strut bracket brace and floor-to-rocker brace panels; reinforcements were made to the upper front members, kick panel, floor-tunnel, floor cross members, centre pillar and centre floor cross-member.

Safety was also improved with an anti-intrusion mechanism for the brake pedal and cushioning material below the accelerator pedal. As a result of the stiffer body, the suspension was recalibrated.

2004 MR2 TTR (Toyota Team Racing) variants

In March 2004, limited-run TTR variants were released; these models were distinguished by their black leather trim, air conditioning and ‘TTR’ emblems.

Related links

• Press Release: Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 Spyder (October 2002)
• Press Release: Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 Spyder upgrade (April 2004)
• Press Release: Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 Spyder TTR Limited Edition (April 2004)
• Wikipedia.org: Toyota ZZW30 MR2

Review: Toyota SW20.I MR2 (1990-94)

Overview

Released in March 1990, the Toyota SW20 Series I (SW20.I) MR2 was a mid-engined, two-door coupe with a targa roof. In Australia, the rear-wheel drive MR2 was powered by a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Although hardtop, convertible and turbocharged models were available in overseas markets and privately imported, this review is solely concerned with the models imported and sold by Toyota Australia.

3S-GE engine

The MR2 was powered by Toyota’s 2.0-litre 3S-GE engine which was designed in conjunction with Yamaha. The engine had a cast iron block and aluminium alloy cylinder head, double overhead cams, pent-roof combustion chambers and a compression ratio of 10.3:1.

Dimensions and suspension

The MR2 was 4170 mm long, 1700 mm wide, 1235 mm tall and had a 2400 mm long wheelbase. Furthermore, the MR2 had MacPherson strut front suspension with lower L-arms and MacPherson strut rear suspension with dual-link lower arms.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Toyota MR2 consisted of ABS.

Features

Standard features for the Toyota MR2 included 14-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with radio and cassette player, front fog lights, central locking, power windows and power windows.

From November 1992, the MR2 was fitted with 15-inch alloy wheels with wider tyres and revised rear suspension with longer toe links. These changes were made in an attempt to overcome lift-off oversteer when cornering, though this is a common trait of mid-engined vehicles.

Review: Toyota SW20.II MR2 (1994-99)

Overview

Released in March 1994, the SW20 Series II (SW20.II) MR2 introduced a revised range which consisted of GT and Bathurst variants. Visually, the SW20.II MR2 could be identified by its round tail-lights, body-coloured side skirts and one-piece spoiler.

Safety equipment

Compared to its SW20.I predecessor, the Bathurst variant omitted ABS. The GT, however, was fitted with a driver’s airbag and ABS.

From June 1998, the Bathurst was fitted with ABS as standard.

Features

Standard features for the MR2 Bathurst included 15-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with radio and cassette player, central locking, power windows and power mirrors.

The MR2 GT was further equipped with CD player, leather trim, front fog lights, power steering and alarm.

June 1998: MR2 update

In June 1998, the MR2 received a new audio head unit with Digital Sound Processing (DSP) and an improved fascia design. The Bathurst was also fitted with new seat and door trim, while the GT received a six-stack CD changer and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gearshift.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Toyota SW20 MR2

Recalls: Toyota ZZW30 MR2

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Toyota ZZW30 MR2

No recall information is available for the Toyota ZZW30 MR2. To search for recalls of Toyota models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Toyota.

Problems and faults: Toyota ZZW30 MR2

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Toyota MR2 Spyder: Pre-cat failure

For Toyota ZZW30.I MR2 Spyder vehicles, ceramic pieces of the pre-catalytic converter (‘pre-cat’) can break due to their brittle nature. Ceramic pieces of the pre-cat may enter the main catalytic converter and cause excessive pressure, leading to oil blow-by in the engine. When the VVT-i system operates to achieve exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), the ceramic pieces can be sucked back into the engine, scratching and scoring the cylinder bores, and causing more oil to pass by the piston rings – this blow-by then accelerates the disintegration of the pre-cats. If left unchecked, oil starvation can cause internal components to overheat and destroy the engine. Symptoms of pre-cat failure include oil consumption, a lack of power through the rev range and nosies from the engine bay.

As a result of pre-cat failure, a common modification by owners is to remove the pre-cats.

The Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 Spyder had modified oil rings which prevented oil from leaking past the cylinders and into the pre-cat system. While the oil rings have not been confirmed as the source of the pre-cat failure, it is understood that the ZZW30.II MR2 Spyder does not experience pre-cat failure. For more information about this issue, please see Pre-cats: The Official MR2-ROC Information Thread.

Toyota MR2 Spyder: oxygen sensor failure

The MR2 Spyder has three oxygen sensors, with the O2 sensor fitted after the main catalytic converter susceptible to failure.

Toyota MR2 Spyder: rattling noise

A rattling noise from the MR2 Spyder’s engine bay may be due to loose heat shields.

Toyota MR2 Spyder: exhaust manifold vibration and CCM movement

For early Toyota ZZW30 MR2 models, debris could be sucked into the engine as the exhaust manifold would vibrate and the catalytic converter matrix (CCM) would move within its holding mat during heavy acceleration or braking when the vehicle was cold. From October 2001 (VIN 0043748), improved holding mats and manifolds were fitted.

Toyota ZZW30 MR2: ABS warning light

In 2008, Toyota UK issued a ‘non-code action’ for Toyota MR2 vehicles because the ABS warning light may illuminate because of incorrect fitment of an accessory (NCA/2008/018).

Toyota MR2 Spyder: other problems and faults

• For early Toyota ZZW30 MR2 models, the bonnet could be difficult to raise – this could be fixed by fitting a new bonnet latch and springs.
• If the glass rear screen is broken, the entire roof needs to be replaced.

Recalls: Toyota SW20 MR2

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Toyota SW20 MR2

No recall information is available for the Toyota SW20 MR2. To search for recalls of Toyota models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Toyota.

Problems and faults: Toyota SW20 MR2

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Toyota SW20 MR2

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Toyota SW20 MR2.

Released in March 1990, the Toyota SW20 Series I (W20.I) MR2 was a mid-engined, two-door coupe with a targa roof. In Australia, the rear-wheel drive MR2 was powered by a 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission. Although hardtop, convertible and turbocharged models were available in overseas markets and privately imported, this review was solely concerned with the models imported and sold by Toyota Australia… Read full Toyota SW20 MR2 review

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Images: Toyota SW20.II MR2 (1994-99)

Released in March 1994, the Toyota SW20 Series II (SW20.II) MR2 introduced a revised range which consisted of GT and Bathurst variants. The Toyota SW20.II MR2 could be identified by its round tail-lights, body-coloured side skirts and one-piece spoiler.

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Released in October 2000, the Toyota ZZW30 Series I (ZZW30.I) MR2 was a two-seat, mid-engined convertible. Manufactured in Sagamihara, Japan, the rear-wheel drive MR2 was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine (Toyota’s 1ZZ-FE) that was mated to five-speed semi-automatic (or sequential manual) transmission which had a fully automated clutch. As such, gear shifts could be performed via the short-throw gear lever or ‘E-shift’ buttons on the steering wheel… Read full Toyota ZZW30 MR2 review

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Images: Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 (2002-05)

Released in October 2002, the Toyota ZZW30 Series II (ZZW30.II) MR2 introduced a six speed transmission and improved safety equipment. Rear suspension braces and recalibrated dampers were also introduced for improved ride quality and stability. The Toyota ZZW30.II MR2 could be identified by its new projector type low-beam headlights, integrated front fog lamps, body-coloured side air intake, rear grille, larger exhaust pipe diffuser, rear combination lights and larger rear wheels (16-inch). Inside, the MR2 had new trim, graphics, a Fujitsu Ten audio unit and subtle changes to the centre console and heater/ventilation controls.

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Men and Motors: Toyota ZZW30 MR2 – Top 10 Convertibles of 2001

Note

Please note that these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.

Men and Motors: 2002 Toyota MR2 test drive and review