With no clutch pedal, the MR2 will only start when it's in neutral and your foot is on the brake, and it will only go in neutral with the key on, so starting the engine is a three-step affair: key on, right hand moves to gear lever to engage neutral, right hand moves back up to the column to start. Or you could leave it parked in neutral to save time, but woe is you and Mistertwo if you get hasty and don't set the emergency brake tightly enough.

Our conclusion? There may be some refinements needed in this seminal system, but the technology is the future. The handwriting is on the wall, and it's calling the clutch pedal a dinosaur

Summary

The MR2 Spyder is a great little sports car with impressive technology in the engine, chassis and gearbox. Its acceleration is exciting thanks to its light weight, yet the ride is solid and admirable. It is comfortable and convenient, but its mission is not misguided by luxury. The convertible top lowers in a flash so you can fully enjoy top-down motoring, or suddenly enjoy protection from thunderstorms. And it does it all this for a reasonable price.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:MR2 5-speed manual ($23,735); MR2 5-speed sequential manual ($24,515)

Engines:1.8 liter dohc 16v inline-4

Transmissions:5-speed manual; 5-speed sequential manual

Safety equipment (standard):dual air bags, seatbelt pretensioners, ABS

Safety equipment (optional):N/A

Basic warranty:3 years/36,000 mi

Assembled in:Tokyo, Japan