Toyota's Celica nameplate is officially set to return, marking a bold step in revitalising the Japanese auto giant's sports car lineup.
The confirmation came during a public event at Toyota Stadium, held alongside Rally Japan, where Toyota Executive Vice President Yuki Nakajima made the announcement.
A long-awaited revelation
Speculation about the Celica’s return has been rife for years, with fans eagerly awaiting official news.
When Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda was questioned about the possibility of a new Celica, he initially deflected, leaving the floor to Nakajima.
In a moment of candour, Nakajima told attendees, “We’re doing the Celica,” sparking excitement among enthusiasts.
However, Toyoda added a note of caution, warning that challenges remain. Nakajima followed up playfully, hinting that while a release date is unconfirmed, "it could be next year."
Historical significance
The Celica’s original run spanned seven generations from 1970 to 2006, earning its place as an icon in Toyota’s lineup.
Rumours suggest the eighth generation could debut as early as the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, potentially as a concept car. This speculation is supported by a teaser in Toyota USA's GRIP anime series, which hinted at an updated sports car lineup including the Celica, Supra MK6 and MR2 MK4.
Possibilities galore
Reports suggest Toyota is considering a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine for the new Celica, capable of producing nearly 300kW. This aligns with Toyota’s ongoing collaboration with Subaru and Mazda to develop powertrains that accommodate electrification and alternative fuels.
During the event, Nakajima also shared Akio Toyoda’s admiration for Subaru’s boxer engines and Mazda’s rotary engines, hinting at innovative approaches to the new model’s development.
Beyond the Celica, attention also turned to the next-generation GR86.
Toyota’s Kazuya Oshima cryptically hinted that future developments are already underway, with testing focused on the circuit. A turbocharged GR86 with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout remains a possibility.
A revival to watch
Toyota’s renewed focus on performance models, including hints of an MR2 revival, signals its intent to recapture its sports car legacy.
While exact timelines remain uncertain, the return of the Celica is set to reinvigorate the brand’s presence in the sports coupe segment. Fans will be watching closely for further updates as Toyota brings its celebrated nameplates into the modern era.