Toyota’s iconic Celica could be making a triumphant return, and this time, it might come with a high-performance twist. A recent trademark filing in Brazil suggests that not only is the Celica name coming back, but a GR (Gazoo Racing) version could be part of the lineup.
The filing, dated January 15, 2025, and published in early February, is listed under “automobiles and their structural parts.” While Toyota has yet to make any official announcements, this development significantly bolsters rumors of a Celica revival. Enthusiasts have long speculated about the rebirth of the beloved sports coupe, and this latest move suggests that it’s closer than ever.
Toyota’s Renewed Interest in the Celica
Toyota has been actively renewing the Celica trademark in various countries, including the United States, where the name was filed again in November 2024. The company’s interest in bringing the Celica back gained traction in October 2023 when Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda publicly stated that he had instructed executives to develop a new Celica. Before that, Toyota CEO Koji Sato also expressed interest in reviving the nameplate but was non-committal.
Further adding fuel to the fire, Toyota’s anime series Grip recently displayed a car list that included a reference to a Celica Mk8. For context, the Celica last saw production with the Mk7 generation before it was discontinued in 2006. Additionally, a report from Best Car quoted Toyota’s Chief Technology Officer Hiroki Nakajima as saying, “We will make the Celica.”
What Could the GR Celica Be?
While details remain scarce, the GR branding suggests that a performance-oriented version could be in the works. Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division has been responsible for producing enthusiast favorites like the GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR Corolla—vehicles praised for their exhilarating driving dynamics and motorsport DNA.
If Toyota follows a similar path, the GR Celica could arrive with a turbocharged engine, an advanced all-wheel-drive system, and track-ready handling characteristics. Given the brand’s recent success with rally-inspired models, a new Celica could become a worthy spiritual successor to the legendary all-wheel-drive Celica GT-Four.
Speculation Versus Reality
Despite these developments’ excitement, Toyota has not officially confirmed the Celica’s return. Automakers frequently renew trademarks to maintain control over legacy names, even if they have no immediate plans to use them. However, the inclusion of a GR Celica trademark suggests that Toyota is considering more than just safeguarding intellectual property.
With the sports coupe market seeing renewed interest—thanks to models like the Nissan Z and Honda’s rumored Prelude revival—Toyota may be looking to bring back its own legendary nameplate to capture the growing enthusiasm for performance cars.
The Verdict: When, Not If
Given the growing evidence, Toyota’s leadership backing the idea, and an eager fanbase, the Celica’s return seems like a matter of time rather than a question of possibility. Whether it takes the form of an electrified performance coupe or a turbocharged rally-inspired beast, the Celica is poised to make a thrilling comeback.
For now, all eyes are on Toyota for an official announcement, until then, the anticipation only grows.
