The Toyota Celica is one of the most iconic nameplates in the company’s history, and recent reports suggest a potential return. Last seen in showrooms in 2006, the market for compact performance coupes has diminished since then. However, Toyota’s commitment to sports cars through its Gazoo Racing (GR) lineup has reignited interest in fun, performance-oriented vehicles.
A new Celica is just around the corner
Several indicators suggest that Toyota is seriously considering bringing back the Celica. A recent trademark filing for the Celica name has sparked speculation, alongside hints of a new sports coupe in Toyota’s GRIP animated series. Akio Toyoda’s vision for Toyota's performance lineup emphasizes driving engagement and enjoyment, making the Celica a strong candidate for revival under the GR brand. Recent successes with models like the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR86, and Supra further bolster the argument that a new Celica could have a place in Toyota's offerings.
Possible engines and platforms for the new Celica
Toyota's current lineup of performance engines presents several possibilities for the new Celica. The most likely option is the 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder from the GR Corolla, producing 304 PS and paired with Toyota’s GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, making the Celica a formidable rally-inspired coupe. Another option could be the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine from the Lexus NX350, generating around 279 PS; if tuned for performance, this could provide a refined yet powerful driving experience. Additionally, Toyota showcased the 2.0-liter turbocharged G20E engine with the Yaris M Concept at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon, capable of producing at least 304 PS. Alternatively, a hybrid powertrain could offer an efficient Celica with instant torque delivery, making it a unique contender in the segment.
The choice of platform for the new Celica is still uncertain. Toyota might use the TNGA-C platform, which underpins the GR Corolla and Prius Prime, or repurpose the GR86’s chassis to create a rear-wheel-drive layout. Regardless, both options would hopefully promise a return to the Celica’s roots.
Significant Celica generations
If Toyota brings back the Celica, it would be following in the footsteps of some truly remarkable past models. Here’s a look at its most significant eras:
Early Years: The Muscle Car Era (A20/A30/A40) - The first-generation Celica (A20/A30; 1970-1977) emerged as Toyota’s answer to American muscle cars, featuring a long-hood, short-deck design that captured the essence of performance coupes of the era. It introduced legendary engines like the 2.0-liter twin-cam, twin-carb setups that made it a favorite among enthusiasts. This period also marked the beginnings of the A40-series Celica XX (aka Celica Supra), foreshadowing what would later become the Supra line and Toyota's experiments with larger-displacement, turbocharged, high-performance vehicles.
Rallying Heritage: Toyota’s WRC Dominance (A60/T160/T185/T200) - Toyota’s rallying legacy took off with the Celica in Group B competition, particularly with the TA64 Twin-Cam Turbo, a brutal machine that competed in the infamous Group B era of rallying. Later, the Celica evolved into a formidable WRC competitor with the ST165, ST185, and ST205. These generations (T160/T185/T200; 1985-1999) brought Toyota three WRC championships, establishing the Celica as a true motorsport icon. The ST205, in particular, was one of the most advanced rally cars of its time, boasting Toyota’s most sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and arguably the most potent version of the 3S-GTE turbocharged engine.
Tuner Heritage: The Street-Loved Celica (T230) -The final generation (T230; 1999-2006) marked a shift towards a high-revving, lightweight coupe aimed at the tuner market. Featuring the 1.8-liter 2ZZ-GE engine with VVTL-i, producing up to 192 PS, this Celica gained a strong following among street racers and tuners. Its sleek, aerodynamic design and affordability made it a prime candidate for modifications, solidifying its place in the JDM tuning scene.
What a new Celica could bring to the table
Reviving the Celica nameplate would significantly impact the modern sports car market. Many Japanese automakers have been reintroducing classic nameplates with contemporary updates, tapping into nostalgia while elevating performance. Nissan has achieved this with the Z, while Honda revived the Integra and Prelude names for a sporty flavor. The return of the Celica could generate renewed interest in Toyota’s rich history, aligning with its vision for future performance and electrification.
Though the Philippines never officially received the Celica past its second generation, the prospect of a new model arriving may not be unrealistic. Toyota has successfully launched performance vehicles like the GT86, GR Yaris, and Supra in the local market, highlighting enthusiasm for high-performance cars. If a new Celica is introduced, it could provide Filipino enthusiasts with yet another exhilarating Toyota sports car to enjoy.
With the possibility of a new Celica on the horizon, Toyota fans can only hope this revived model will embody the spirit of its legendary predecessors while integrating modern performance technology. Whether turbocharged, hybrid, or electrified, a Celica revival has the potential to shake up the sports coupe market uniquely, delivering an exhilarating driving experience rooted in Akio Toyoda’s vision of passion-driven performance and ensuring that modern performance cars remain engaging and exciting to drive.