Toyota announces the return of the Celica sports car

In a recent development concerning Toyota's automotive lineup, the company's chief technical officer, Hiroki Nakajima, confirmed that the Celica sports car is set to make a comeback. This announcement, made during a public inquiry into future models, signifies a shift in Toyota's focus to rekindle interest in one of its most cherished performance vehicles. The original Celica gained fame in the 1980s for its participation in rally sports, notably earning its first victory in the 1982 Rally of New Zealand, which contributed to its legacy among car enthusiasts. The seventh-generation Celica was discontinued in the U.S. in 2005 after a significant drop in sales, which saw just over 3,000 units sold compared to over 52,000 in 2000. The new Celica is expected to cater to diverse markets, with configurations for right-hand drive countries as well as the traditional left-hand drive models suited for North America. Insights from insiders suggest that the upcoming model may adopt its predecessor's front-wheel drive system as standard, while a high-performance all-wheel drive variant may also be available. This setup aims to include the turbocharged inline-four engine currently in development, which is anticipated to succeed the legendary 2JZ powerplant. The new engine will boast displacements of 1.5 liters and 2.0 liters, promising outputs exceeding 400 horsepower. Anticipation builds around the new Celica, which is likely to be branded as a 2027 model year. While some markets, such as Europe, may be left out of this launch, the focus remains on revitalizing the Celica brand, which was long revered by driving enthusiasts. With continued efforts to modernize its vehicle portfolio, Toyota is keen to reclaim its position in the sports car segment and attract a new generation of drivers looking for performance and heritage. In summary, the forthcoming Celica marks a pivotal moment for Toyota, reflecting an approach that balances nostalgia with the demand for modern performance vehicles. The hopes of many fans and loyal customers hinge on this much-anticipated model, which aims to blend Toyota's rich racing history with cutting-edge automotive technology. As Toyota continues to refine its engineering capabilities and address the needs of contemporary drivers, the official unveiling of the Celica will be an event to look forward to in the near future.