5 Minutes
The Toyota Celica Returns: An Icon Reborn
Toyota fans, rejoice! After years of rumors and mounting anticipation, the legendary Celica is poised for a dramatic return. Sources from Japan suggest that Toyota is secretly developing a brand-new Celica that not only revives the iconic nameplate but also radically reimagines its engineering. Unlike any Celica before it, this new-generation sports car could surprise enthusiasts by adopting a mid- or even rear-engine layout—a significant departure from its traditional front-engine configuration.
A Legend’s Resurgence: From Obscurity to the Spotlight
The Toyota Celica holds a revered spot in automotive history, with a legacy spanning 36 years until its discontinuation in 2006. However, a wave of nostalgia has inspired Toyota’s top leadership—including Chairman Akio Toyoda and President Tsuneharu Sato—to green-light the Celica’s return. Evidence surfaced earlier this year when Toyota filed a trademark under codename 710D with Brazil’s National Institute of Industrial Property, signaling that this automotive legend is nearly ready to re-enter the spotlight.
Under the Hood: All-New Turbocharged Power
Detailed information leaked from Japanese media outlets hints that the upcoming GR Celica (Gazoo Racing Celica) will be anything but ordinary. At its heart, the new Celica is expected to feature a cutting-edge 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, known as the G20E. This powerhouse is projected to deliver 394 hp (400 PS) and a robust 405 lb-ft (550 Nm) of torque—a configuration that already places it among the world’s most exciting performance cars. Even more thrilling, Toyota engineers are reportedly exploring options for larger turbochargers that could push output up to 600 horsepower. This would vault the Celica into rarefied supercar territory, appealing to performance car enthusiasts worldwide.
Innovative Chassis & Design: Lightweight and Athletic
Toyota is leaving no stone unturned in its quest to make the new Celica a true driver’s machine. Thanks to extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber—especially in the hood and roof—the GR Celica promises outstanding power-to-weight ratio and uncompromising handling precision. Unlike many rivals, the GR Celica will focus on pure internal combustion performance, steering clear of electrified powertrains for the time being. Its dramatic new chassis, possibly with a mid- or rear-engine configuration, breaks with decades of tradition, echoing the spirit of legendary Toyota sports cars like the MR-S.
Performance Testing and Development
According to BestCarWeb, the GR Yaris M Concept, which debuted at the Tokyo Auto Show in January 2025, will serve as a test bed for the new Celica's powertrain. The GR Yaris's own development benefited from Toyota’s Super Taikyu (Super Endurance) racing program, a strategy that will continue with the GR Celica to ensure top-tier race-bred performance.
Racing Heritage and Design Innovations
The Celica’s DNA is steeped in motorsport, best exemplified by the Celica GT-Four ST165's 1990 World Rally Championship victory with Carlos Sainz. To maintain this spirit, design proposals for the GR Celica’s rear end have included options for both single and double-deck trunk lids. Reports indicate the more rigid double-deck design is favored, aligning with the vehicle’s focus on high-performance driving dynamics.
Market Position and Future Expectations
With its revolutionary layout, high-performance engine, and race-inspired construction, the GR Celica is set to challenge rivals from both traditional sports car manufacturers and emerging contenders in the segment. Although Toyota has yet to confirm an official launch date, industry insiders agree the arrival of the new Celica is imminent. As excitement builds, automotive enthusiasts around the world are waiting to see if this iconic nameplate can once again set new standards in the sports car world.
Whether you’re a lifelong Toyota fan or simply crave cutting-edge performance, the new GR Celica promises to be one of the most exciting sports cars of its generation. Stay tuned for further updates as this legendary model races toward its long-awaited debut.
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