Enthusiasts of Japanese sports cars have reason to celebrate as rumors solidify around the highly anticipated return of the New Toyota Celica. Originally hinted at in July of 2024, whispers of Toyota reviving both the Celica and MR2 models have now coalesced, revealing a focused effort on resurrecting the iconic Celica. While initial reports suggested a dual revival, recent confirmations from Toyota executives indicate that the legendary Celica is indeed the chosen model to be reborn.
Recent comments from Toyota Executive Vice President Hiroki Nakajima to Japan’s Best Car magazine have effectively confirmed the Celica’s revival. When questioned about the potential return of either the Celica or MR2, Nakajima stated, “To be honest, there’s nothing tangible at the moment [regarding MR2]. However, there’s strong demand within the company for the Celica. So, is it okay to say this publicly? We’re doing the Celica!” This decisive statement clarifies Toyota’s direction, focusing resources on delivering a compelling new Toyota Celica to eager fans.
This strategic narrowing down to a single model makes sense within Toyota’s current sports car lineup. Boasting models like the GR Supra, GR86, GR Corolla, GR Yaris, and the Lexus LC and RC, Toyota already commands a significant presence in the sports car market. Concentrating on the Celica allows Toyota to channel its engineering and design prowess into creating a truly exceptional vehicle.
Mid-Engine 2.0-Liter Turbo Confirmed for New Toyota Celica
Adding to the excitement, details regarding the powertrain of the new Toyota Celica are emerging, promising a thrilling driving experience. Staying true to earlier reports, the revived Celica is slated to feature a mid-mounted 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, paired with a classic 6-speed manual transmission. In a bold move against the prevailing trend of electrification, Toyota has opted for a purely internal combustion engine for the Celica, eschewing hybrid or fully electric variants. This commitment to a traditional powertrain signals a focus on raw driving pleasure and performance.
This decision places the new Toyota Celica in a unique position within the evolving sports car landscape. While competitors are increasingly turning to electric powertrains – exemplified by high-end models like the Audi RS e-tron GT, Porsche Taycan, and Maserati Granturismo Folgore, as well as more accessible options like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and MG Cyberster – Toyota is doubling down on engine development. Former Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda’s past statements about pushing engine development to its limits are clearly manifesting in this new turbocharged unit.
Unveiled at the recent Tokyo Auto Salon, this potent 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo engine, generating over 400 horsepower, is anticipated to be the heart of the new Celica. Originally showcased as the powerplant for the GR Yaris M Concept, industry insiders and analysts strongly believe this engine is destined for the mid-engine bay of the upcoming Celica. Furthermore, the new Toyota Celica is expected to inherit the rally-proven all-wheel-drive system and precise 6-speed manual transmission from the GR Corolla, ensuring exceptional handling and driver engagement.
FT-Se Concept: A Glimpse into the New Celica’s Design?
The Toyota FT-Se concept, unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2023, is increasingly viewed as a potential design precursor to the new Toyota Celica. While officially presented as an electric sports car concept, the FT-Se’s mid-engine proportions and overall silhouette strongly suggest it may be cleverly concealing the design language of the next-generation Celica. The mid-engine layout of the FT-Se aligns perfectly with the confirmed mid-engine powertrain of the new Toyota Celica, strengthening this theory.
Although the final production design of the new Toyota Celica is expected to feature unique styling elements, the FT-Se concept provides a compelling glimpse into the potential size and overall form factor. The dimensions and sporty coupe aesthetics of the FT-Se appear to be a strong foundation for the revived Celica.
However, the anticipated price point for the new Toyota Celica may raise eyebrows. Projected to start around 10 million yen, or just under $70,000, the Celica would enter a competitive price bracket occupied by established sports cars like the Dodge Charger Daytona, Ford Mustang V8, BMW M2, Nissan Z, Audi RS3, Toyota GR Supra, and Chevrolet Corvette. While the Celica’s rally-bred chassis, potent mid-engine turbo, and all-wheel-drive system promise impressive performance, its positioning within this price range will be crucial for its market success. Some industry observers suggest that branding the new Toyota Celica under the Lexus banner could elevate its perceived status and justify the price for potential buyers, enhancing its appeal in this competitive segment.
In conclusion, the revival of the new Toyota Celica is generating significant excitement among sports car enthusiasts. With a confirmed mid-engine turbocharged powertrain, manual transmission, and potential design cues from the FT-Se concept, the Celica is poised to make a strong comeback. The coming years will reveal if this iconic nameplate can successfully re-enter the market and compete with established rivals in the fiercely contested sports car arena.
