2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder from North America - Comments

Nothing at this point. I just noticed that the front window defrost isn't functioning and I'm taking it in to get that checked out.

I have noticed that the leather tops tend to pick up black smudges from the weather stripping during raising/lowering.

Comfort: Leather seats are comfortable, but I have a tendency to slide on them during heavy cornering. The lumbar support is a nice touch.

Economy: I've been averaging 29-30 MPG in combined Highway/City driving using regular unleaded.

Acceleration: Decent acceleration from a stop, but much better during highway acceleration. Lugs at times in first gear at lower RPM, but will light up the tires at 4-5K RPM.

Cornering: Absolutely superb!! I can't give it justice so I won't explain, just drive one.

Braking: Sometimes when I hit the brakes I end up further back than where I started, it's that quick.

Interior: I love it, simple, relatively bare. Would prefer the center of the dash come inward a bit, not quite the feel of a cockpit. Very little room for the legs of the driver, I wouldn't even try to drive one with a shoe size of 12 (US) or more. Right leg rests against the center console, a bit uncomfortable at times.

Storage: Limited. I can fit my racquetball gear behind the seats and very little else. There is no trunk so I generally use the passenger seat for everything.

Trans: This is my biggest complaint! I drove the sequential trans model (which I didn't like as much). That model actually has 6 forward gears, hence the est 34 MPG highway rather than 33. RPM stays much lower than with the 5 spd manual which runs at just under 4k RPM during extended Interstate driving. Why not drop a 6 in both? That being said, the gearshift operation is short, quick, crisp, and a true pleasure to operate. I've been sighted throwing through the shifting pattern while stuck at stoplights.

Overall: I love this car and I'll keep it forever, and since it's a Toyota it will probably last forever. I may have to increase the hp by a bit and personalize it in other ways, but it's really an outstanding car for only about 25K. I gave up my Mitsu Eclipse Spyder GS for this and I'd never even consider going back.

I have a 2003 MR2 Spyder with SMT. This car is a mini Ferrari and closest thing to it. I have a Solar Yellow and every where I go, people stop and look at it. It is a blast to drive and simply the cutest, best and most reliable sports car for the money.