Toyota Celica Revival Rumored with Turbocharged Engine and GR-Four AWD System

Rumors suggest Toyota’s Celica might return with a turbocharged engine and GR-Four AWD system, potentially debuting at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon.

Since the launch of Toyota Gazoo Racing, there have been persistent rumors about reviving the MR2 and Celica, keeping sportscar enthusiasts eagerly anticipating. The latest news from Japan suggests the return of the Celica, powered by a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with Toyota’s GR-Four AWD system.

Last year, Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda expressed interest in a new Celica, followed by rumors of an EV sports car sharing components with the Lexus LF-ZC Concept. However, the latest report hints at a more thrilling possibility: the Celica might come back with a traditional gasoline powertrain.

In a joint statement with Subaru and Mazda about future combustion engines, Toyota confirmed it is developing new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, adaptable to electrification and alternative fuels. The announcement of this «multi-pathway» approach, coupled with a photo of a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon, has fueled speculation about its potential use in a new Celica.

Best Car Web reports that development of the new high-performance engine began several years ago and is now complete. While Toyota has not released specific details, the Japanese publication estimates the engine could produce nearly 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS). This engine might be paired with Toyota’s rally-inspired GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, currently in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla hot hatchbacks.

This setup would be a fitting revival of the Celica GT-Four, honoring the model’s WRC success. To set it apart from other models in the Toyota GR lineup, the new Celica might also feature a more luxurious interior.

Currently, there is no information about the model’s styling, but it is expected to retain the low-slung coupe silhouette of previous generations. According to unconfirmed sources from Japan, the new Celica could be unveiled as early as January 2025 at the Tokyo Auto Salon.

Toyota produced seven generations of the Celica from 1970 to 2006, after which it was discontinued without a direct successor. The Toyota GT86 and GR86 later filled the role of an affordable sports car in Toyota’s lineup with a similar two-door coupe design. However, Celica fans have continuously hoped for a new generation, and Toyota has kept the possibility alive with various trademark filings.

In addition to the Celica, there are rumors about a new mid-engined MR2 roadster, a Starlet hot hatch, and a smaller S-FR sports car. The latest information suggests these models might use smaller turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with 1.3-liter and 1.6-liter displacements, similar to those in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.