In a surprising turn of events, Toyota seems to be contemplating the resurrection of an icon from its past the Toyota Celica. Last year, Chairman Akio Toyoda formally expressed interest in reviving the legendary model, and recent discussions within the company suggest that this idea might be gaining traction.
Amidst speculation about Toyota’s strategy to revitalize its sales, attention has turned to the possibility of reintroducing the Celica to the market. This follows previous speculation regarding the potential revival of the SR-F concept, aimed at competing with the Mazda Miata.
However, the prospect of bringing back the Celica raises questions about Toyota’s current lineup. With the likes of the Toyota Supra leading the performance segment, the rally-inspired Toyota Corolla GR, and the Toyota GR86 serving as the entry-level coupe, there’s uncertainty about where another coupe would fit into the mix.
Toyota is reportedly considering two main paths for the Celica’s revival. One option involves outfitting the car with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and an all-wheel-drive system reminiscent of the iconic GT-Four. Enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating this prospect, should it come to fruition.
Alternatively, Toyota is also exploring the rapidly evolving landscape of electric and hybrid vehicles. Talks within the company suggest that the Celica could potentially return as an EV or hybrid coupe AWD, reflecting the industry’s shift towards more environmentally friendly alternatives. However, the feasibility and market reception of such a move remain uncertain.
Despite the absence of a prototype, industry observers speculate that Toyota may unveil concept versions of the revived Celica to gauge public interest. The upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon could serve as a platform for showcasing these concepts and soliciting feedback from enthusiasts and potential customers alike.
