Rumors about reviving the legendary Toyota Celica have been circulating online for nearly four years. The Japanese have kept interest alive through anime series, patent registrations, and hints from executives. However, the story is now moving into the specifics phase. According to a recent report by Autocar, a new coupe-like model, which could bear the name Celica Sport, is preparing for a debut in 2027 under the Gazoo Racing division.
The main news is the powertrain. The well-known 1.6-liter three-cylinder G16E engine, which became the heart of the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, is gradually being phased out. As explained by Mikio Hayashi, GR's marketing manager, this unit is increasingly difficult to adapt to strict future environmental standards. Therefore, this engine will be replaced by a completely new 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine designated G20E.
This engine promises significantly more power, with an expected output of around 400 horsepower in the "civilian" version, and for track modifications, the potential reaches 600 horsepower. Toyota is testing this unit on prototypes, although it is currently temporarily installed in a mid-engine configuration based on the Yaris. However, the production Celica will retain the classic front-engine layout.
The new model will feature an all-wheel-drive system, logically continuing the legacy of the famous GT-Four versions. An important detail is that Toyota Gazoo Racing is considering the use of hybrid technologies. This could include both a self-charging hybrid and a plug-in hybrid version (PHEV).
Electrification is necessary not only due to environmental requirements but also to compensate for turbo lag and increase overall power. Of course, this will increase the vehicle's weight, but the experience of brands like BMW or Audi shows that it is practically impossible today to retain powerful internal combustion engines in the lineup without electrification. This 2.0-liter engine is expected to become the "backbone" for the entire future GR series, including the next generation of the GR86 model.
Despite the lack of official confirmation on the design, sources indicate that dealers have already seen the first outlines of the body. If the forecasts come true, then in 2027 we will see a car that will attempt to bring back the spirit of rally victories from the nineties in a modern technological "package."