The long-awaited return of the Toyota Celica appears to be edging closer, with Toyota filing a GR Celica trademark in Brazil. This latest move suggests the iconic sports coupe could soon make a comeback under Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) performance division.
GR Celica Trademark: What Does It Mean?
Toyota has previously trademarked the Celica name, but this is the first time it has been linked to the GR (Gazoo Racing) badge—putting it in the same league as the GR Supra, GR86, GR Yaris, and GR Corolla.
While Toyota has yet to confirm official details, this latest filing aligns with previous executive hints and reports from Best Car magazine suggesting that a Celica revival is already in development.
What We Know About the New Toyota GR Celica
1. A High-Performance Turbo Engine
Japanese reports indicate that the new GR Celica could be powered by Toyota’s next-generation 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, rumored to produce up to 300kW.
2. Potential Drivetrain Options
The original Celica (1970–2006) transitioned from rear-wheel drive (RWD) to front- and all-wheel drive (AWD) over its lifespan. The new GR Celica could follow a similar path, but there are also rumors of a mid-engine layout.
Toyota recently showcased a mid-engine prototype based on the GR Yaris, hinting at a new performance platform that could be shared with a revived Celica or MR2.
3. Could It Arrive in 2025?
While Toyota has not provided a confirmed release date, speculation suggests the GR Celica could debut as early as this year.
Toyota Executives Hint at a Celica Revival
Hiroki Nakajima (Toyota CTO) on the Celica’s Return:
“To be honest, there is no sign of it right now. However, there are many people within the company who are eagerly awaiting the Celica. So… I wonder if it’s okay to say this in a public forum, but we’re doing the Celica!”
Toyota President Koji Sato (May 2023):
“I want to revive the Celica.”
Chairman Akio Toyoda’s Rally-Inspired Tease:
“Now you can all have a think about why I’m using Kankkunen so much. See if you can guess!”
(Referring to legendary rally driver Juha Kankkunen, who won four WRC titles in the Celica GT-Four.)
What’s Next?
With the GR Celica trademark now filed, all signs point to Toyota bringing back one of its most beloved sports cars. Whether it arrives as a front-engine AWD coupe, a rear-wheel-drive performance car, or a mid-engine sports car, the Celica’s return is now more likely than ever.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Toyota GR Celica as news develops!
Dylan Anderson
