2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.76/5 Average
68 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2003, Toyota gives the MR2 Spyder a bolder look in front with a new bumper and fascia, dual-bulb projector-style headlights and integrated standard foglamps. The side air intakes are revised and now color-keyed. In rear, the MR2 is distinguished by new combination lamps with cylindrical turn signals and reverse lights that mimic the dual-bulb look of the headlights. Further, the rear grille garnishes combines body-color vertical ribs and mesh to emphasize the midengine design. A larger oval chrome tailpipe puts the emphasis on performance capability, and a new power antenna contributes to the roadster's clean lines. Inside, instrument panel graphics have been revised, and there are new chrome trim accents. Additionally, the leather seating packages -- black or tan -- now include matching color convertible tops. Mechanically, an all-new six-speed sequential manual transmission (SMT) is optional, replacing last year's five-speed SMT. Toyota has also upped the rear wheels to 16 inches in diameter.

Pros:
  • Lively and precise handling dynamics, scores high on the fun scale, available SMT transmission, affordable compared to other European-brand roadsters.
Cons:
  • Severe lack of storage space, bland interior design, not many safety features available.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 68.00
  • fun! - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    A fun car out the door. I knew I wanted a little more so I had the dealer install the TRD Sportivo suspension kit at 2 miles on the odomenter. Now it *really* handles like a slot car. Perfect balance, adequate if not awesome power.

  • Got the feeling - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    Truly enjoyable ride. Has the feel of an expensive car but quite affordable at under $25,000. Sequential shifting makes driving in rush-hour traffic less stressful, and the addition of shifting mechanism on the steering column makes multi-tasking possible. Gas mileage has been great and the use of regular unleaded gasoline is a real plus. The only negative is storage. Overall, a feel good experience.

  • THE CAR THAT DOES NOT DRIVE - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    I HAVE HAD THE SPYDER FOR ABOUT 9 MONTHS AND HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS. I HAVE THE SEQUENTIAL SHIFT AND HAVE HAD MAJOR TRANSMISSION ISSUES.

  • Great Car - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    I test drove a Miata and the MR2 Spyder blows it out of the water. The interior design is pleasing to the eye and functional. I have been told by several people that the car looks like it is in the price range of a Porche. You get the classiness of an expensive vehicle with a price that wont break your bank. Plus the car is a lot of fun to drive. And as far as the space, if you dont have a second passanger you can get quite a bit of things on that side. Put it this way, I fit $250.00 worth of groceries in my MR2.

  • Finally, some fun on the streets - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    The MR2 will never appeal to soccer moms, farmers, or anyone who prioritizes "practicality" over fun; however, if you want a reliable, economical, relatively rare, good-looking, and super fun way of getting from point "A" to "B" the MR2 can not be beat.

  • mr2 spyder rocks - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    mr2s have awesome handlin and comfort they are aforrdable and sexy. treat yourself to a test drive at thousand oaks toyota

  • Fun Little Roadster - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    Great car, tried Miata too but MR2 is a way better car mid-engine handling, turns flat, very predictable, great shifter, awesome brakes, stiff chassis, and lightweight, the guys at Toyota sure know what they are doing. Sure its not as quiet as my Camry, but it is a sports car, this car is a good therapy on a bad day, this car makes one smile. If you can live without the trunk I strongly recomend this car.

  • 8Legger is awesome!! - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    Ive driven pickups all of my driving life and my fiance owns a Miata MX5 and I must say that this vehicle is unbelievable. Every time I get behind the wheel of my Spyder I think Im a Formula Racer. The Miata aint no slouch, though. That little tiger will tangle with the best of them but the Toyota MR2 Spyder is just a step above, in my opinion. With a limited production of only 5000 per year youll have the entire neighborhood asking you what the hell youre driving. Its a rocket that handles like a go-cart but gets the attention of a Ferrari. Need I say more?

  • Great car, know the limits... - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    I purchased a MR-2 Spyder about 10 months ago. Its a great car, as long as you know the limits and know what you are doing. Handling is TOP notch, very very fun car to drive - you always feel quite connected to the road. Breaking/manuverability excellent. Accelleration good but not spectacular. Storage space is really really small. Great car for weekends and commuting/errand running - but not a good choice for large grocery runs...

  • Fun, safe, freedom car - 2003 Toyota MR2 Spyder
    By -

    Love my car. With only 9,000 miles on it, it went under an 18 wheeler at 70 mph. If it werent for the great handling ability and rear wheel drive, I wouldnt be here today. I was able to pull the car out at 70 mph, with the front passengers wheel torn off!! The performance and handling of the MR2 in a situation like ths is outstanding. Over $10,000 later, and 2 months, this car looks and runs better than new. Toyota should be proud of making such a safe and realiable MR2 Spider!! Thank you.

Toyota MR2 Spyder Reviews By Year:
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