Toyota’s long-awaited Celica revival is beginning to take shape, and fresh details suggest the iconic sports coupé could return with a 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain and four-wheel drive. Internally referred to as the Celica Sport, the upcoming model appears to be moving steadily toward production as Toyota adapts its performance lineup to stricter emissions rules.
The return of the Celica was first confirmed during Rally Japan 2024, when then Toyota vice-president Yuki Nakajima surprised enthusiasts with a simple but powerful statement: “We’re making the Celica.” Since then, anticipation has only grown.
That excitement intensified earlier this month when a camouflaged sports coupé, believed to be the new Celica, was spotted undergoing testing in Portugal ahead of the 2027 World Rally Championship.
2.0-Litre Hybrid Under Consideration
Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division is reportedly exploring multiple engine options, but the spotlight is now on a 2.0-litre hybrid setup. Gazoo Racing marketing manager Mikio Hayashi revealed that smaller engines may no longer meet future emissions standards.
“The displacement size of 1.6 litres, for example, cannot meet emission regulations. So we have to consider the possibility of a 2.0-litre,” Hayashi explained.
While Toyota has not confirmed whether the hybrid system will be a conventional hybrid or a plug-in hybrid, the brand is keeping its options open. Hayashi added that development is progressing steadily, though the company is not ready to confirm timelines yet.
This approach reflects Toyota’s broader strategy to preserve driving excitement while adapting to tightening global emissions regulations.
Performance Could Reach Supercar Levels
The new hybrid system is expected to be based around a turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine designed specifically for Toyota’s performance models. Reports suggest the engine could feature a shorter piston stroke, making it lighter and more compact.
That design would allow Toyota to integrate hybrid components without adding significant weight, a key factor in maintaining sharp performance and handling.
Some early reports even hint at output figures exceeding 600bhp when paired with a large turbocharger. While such numbers remain speculative, they signal Toyota’s ambition to keep the Celica firmly in the performance spotlight.
AWD Confirmed for Celica Sport
One detail that appears more certain is the inclusion of four-wheel drive. Toyota has confirmed that the upcoming Celica will feature AWD, reinforcing its rally-inspired DNA.
This move aligns with the Celica’s motorsport heritage and suggests Toyota could position the new model as a serious driver’s car rather than just a nostalgic revival.
Part of Toyota’s “Three Brothers” Plan
The Celica’s return is also part of Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda’s vision to reunite the brand’s legendary “three brothers” — the Supra, Celica and MR2.
The Supra made its comeback in 2019, and Toyota has hinted that the MR2 could also return depending on customer demand. That leaves the Celica as the next logical step in rebuilding Toyota’s iconic sports car lineup.
What Comes Next
While Toyota has yet to confirm a launch date, development appears to be progressing steadily. If the timeline aligns with rally homologation requirements, the new Celica could debut before the 2027 World Rally Championship.
For enthusiasts, the message is clear. The Celica isn’t just coming back — it’s evolving into something modern, electrified and potentially more powerful than ever before.
