07Mar
Toyota successfully set the automotive world buzzing with excitement when it, on several occasions, introduced the idea of a rebirth of the iconic Celica for 2025 in our screaming brains. Actually, the automaker never made direct claims of bringing the reborn Celica to the market or even unveiling it on this particular date.
The excitement is too strong for the rumors to not take on a life of its own, as fans, enthusiasts, and opportunists ‘carped the diem’ to prophecy the Celica’s return. The same goes for the many ‘reviews’ purporting what is supposedly the new Celica’s features, design elements, and everything else folks could put in Toyota’s mouth.
Even without Toyota executives dropping hints here and there, we know the Celica is very much alive in the Japanese marque’s heart. They even showed off the 1990s Celica GT-4 ST185 WRC champion as part of its Gazoo Racing exhibit Demo-Run Vehicles during the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon.
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We can’t tell you there’s not an official announcement of a new Celica, even though there is no “official” confirmation that one is in development. We can’t tell you that because not only has some executives hinted that a new Celica is possible, Toyota Chairman said he wants to build one.
That’s all the confirmation our lusting hearts needs.
Aren’t you eager to see how Toyota has managed to preserve the Celica’s legacy for the modern dispensation? Let’s preview the features that set the 2025 Toyota Celica apart from its predecessors.
First, Is Toyota Developing a New Celica?
Toyota FT-Se Concept/ Photo Credit: Toyota.
Rumors of the Celica's revival have been in the air for some time, but the buzz took a serious turn last year when Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda made an emphatic statement: “I want to revive the Celica.” This declaration from a high-ranking Toyota official brought a wave of excitement and speculation among car enthusiasts.
Hints and Clues from Toyota
One of the most intriguing hints came from Toyota itself. In an anime series called Grip, which Toyota published on its US YouTube channel, there was a subtle yet significant clue.
In the first episode of the second series, a whiteboard in a Toyota Gazoo Racing workshop displayed a list of sports car projects, including the elusive ‘Celica Mk8’. This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment sparked further speculation.
Confirmation from Toyota’s Chief Technical Officer
FT-Se / Photo Credit: Toyota.
Adding substantial weight to the rumors, Best Car, a prominent Japanese car magazine, directly asked Toyota’s Chief Technical Officer, Hiroki Nakajima, about the Celica’s return. Nakajima’s response was clear: “We’re making the Celica.”
Although he mentioned that the project is still in its early stages, Nakajima’s statement provided the strongest confirmation yet that Toyota is indeed working on bringing back the Celica.
Trademark Filings Fuel Speculation
Another significant piece of evidence came in the form of trademark filings. In October 2024, Toyota trademarked the Celica name with the US Patent and Trademark Office under the category “automobiles and structural parts thereof.”
Similar trademarks were filed in Australia and Brazil, the latter including the letters ‘GR’ in front of ‘Celica’. This suggests that the new Celica will be part of Toyota’s Gazoo Racing performance lineup, alongside models like the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and GR86.
What Now?
While official details remain scarce, the combination of direct statements from high-ranking officials, subtle hints in media, and strategic trademark filings all point toward an imminent return of the Celica.
Although we may have to wait a bit longer than 2025 for its official debut, the excitement and anticipation among Toyota fans and the broader automotive community are palpable.
New Toyota Celica Features Preview
Contoured, Sporty Design
Toyota FT-Se Concept / Photo Credit: Toyota.
We see a 2025/2026 Toyota Celica with a stunning, aerodynamic silhouette that combines modern elegance with a nod to its classic lineage. We see a low, aggressive stance accentuated by sleek, sculpted lines that flow effortlessly from the front to the rear.
The front fascia features a bold, honeycomb grille flanked by sharp, angular LED headlights that give the car a fierce, determined look. The sculpted hood and muscular fenders hint at the power lurking beneath.
Moving along the sides, you'll notice the contoured, streamlined profile with a character line that adds depth and dynamism. The Celica rides on 19-inch alloy wheels with a distinctive, multi-spoke design, adding a touch of sophistication.
At the rear, the sports coupe (of course, it’s a sports coupe, right? Right?) features a distinctive rear spoiler, LED taillights that wrap around the corners, and dual exhaust tips integrated into a sporty diffuser.
The 2026 Toyota Celica is destined to turn heads wherever it goes with its perfect blend of performance and style.
Eye-Catching Color Options
FT-Se / Photo Credit: Toyota.
We see the new Toyota Celica 2025/2026 with a vibrant palette inspired by its rich heritage and racing pedigree. Classic hues like "Rally Red" and "Celestial Silver" honor its storied past, while modern tones like "Electrifying Blue" and "Neon Green" evoke a sense of innovation.
For racing enthusiasts, "Gazoo Racing White" with contrasting black accents and "Heritage Orange" pay tribute to its motorsport legacy. The Celica just have to maintain its unmistakable presence on both the street and track.
Performance and Powertrain
FT-Se Concept / Photo Credit: Toyota.
As the industry trends towards electric vehicles, Toyota has not masked its intention to push engine development to the limit. The new 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo engine, revealed at the Tokyo Auto Salon, will be housed in the Celica’s mid-engine bay, powering an all-wheel-drive system.
Initially introduced in the GR Yaris M Concept, we expect this 400-hp engine to propel the all-new Celica, anticipated to debut this 2025 or at the end of 2026.
Additionally, the new Celica will likely inherit the rally-honed GR Corolla’s 6-speed manual transmission and all-wheel-drive setup.
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Advanced Engine Options
We’re positive the Celica will feature a mid-engined 2.0-liter turbocharged powertrain paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Unlike many modern sports cars, this powertrain will remain purely internal combustion, with no electric or hybrid variants.
The fully electric Toyota FT-Se concept, revealed at the Japan Mobility Show in October 2023, hints at the next-generation Celica. Despite its electric sports car concept label, the mid-engined proportions suggest a connection to the upcoming Celica.
While the final exterior design may differ, the FT-Se concept’s size and design elements align with expectations for the new Celica.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The new Toyota Celica 2025/2026 is coming with advanced technology features that enhances its performance and driver experience.
For the performance-oriented driver, the Celica boasts an adaptive suspension system that automatically adjusts to road conditions and driving style, ensuring optimal handling and comfort.
The advanced traction control system and dynamic torque vectoring deliver precise power distribution for superior cornering and stability.
Intuitive Infotainment System
FT-Se / Photo Credit: Toyota.
At the heart of its tech features is a cutting-edge 12.3-inch digital cockpit with real-time performance data, customizable gauges, and an intuitive touchscreen interface.
The integrated navigation system includes augmented reality overlays, offering turn-by-turn directions directly on the windshield via a heads-up display. The new Celica offers wireless charging, and an immersive 14-speaker JBL sound system.
Naturally, it will inherit the latest version of Toyota’s driver-assist safety suite, which includes a pre-collision system with enhanced detection range, lane departure alert with enhanced detection for three-dimensional objects like guard rails, dynamic radar cruise control upgraded from three to four cruise distance settings, and more.
We see the 2026 Celica seamlessly combining state-of-the-art technology with thrilling performance.
Interior Comfort and Space
FT-Se / Photo Credit: Toyota.
We see the interior of the 2025/2026 Toyota Celica with deeply bolstered, leather-trimmed seats, while the cabin features premium soft-touch materials and ambient lighting.
We don’t really care about ample legroom and an airy feel but it doesn’t hurt to have a Celica that blends comfort with performance seamlessly. If anyone can pull it off, it’s Toyota. We’re happy to report that the interior of the Celica is not only functional but also luxurious.
In July 2024, reports surfaced about Toyota's plans to revive their iconic Celica and MR2 sports cars. Recent developments, however, reveal that Toyota's focus is solely on resurrecting the Celica.
When questioned by Japan’s Best Car magazine, Toyota Executive Vice President Hiroki Nakajima confirmed the high demand within the company for the Celica, stating, “We’re doing the Celica!” Concentrating on one model makes sense, considering Toyota’s strong sports car lineup, including the GR Supra, GR86, GR Corolla, and GR Yaris.
The Legacy of the Celica
FT-Se / Photo Credit: Toyota.
The Toyota Celica has a rich history that spans several decades. First introduced in the early 1970s, the Celica quickly gained a reputation for its sporty performance and stylish design. Over the years, it became a beloved model among car enthusiasts and a symbol of Toyota's commitment to innovation.
The Celica's success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) solidified its reputation. It won numerous titles in the 1990s, showcasing Toyota's engineering prowess and earning the car a loyal fanbase. The 2025/2026 model will build on this legacy with a modern interpretation of the qualities that made the Celica iconic.
With the 2025 model, Toyota will recapture the essence of what made the Celica so popular in the past while incorporating modern advancements. By blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology, the new Celica should attract both longtime fans and a new generation of drivers.
This model represents a careful balance between honoring the past and embracing the future, ensuring that the Celica remains relevant and appealing in today's automotive landscape.
How Much Is The New Toyota Celica?
FT-Se / Photo Credit: Toyota.
The new Celica is expected to arrive with a price tag of around 10 million yen (approximately $70,000). This might be considered a break in tradition as one of the things that made the Celica special is its affordability.
Compared to other sports cars, the Celica offered a great balance of performance and affordability. The first-generation (1970s) Celica was priced around $3,000, which was in the same price range as the Ford Mustang (approximately $3,500), Chevrolet Camaro (around $3,600), and Datsun 240Z (approximately $3,500).
By the 1980s, the Celica prices ranged from $8,000 to $12,000, mirroring the Mustang’s pricing, although the Mustang and Camaro featured a significantly cheaper starting price. The Nissan 300ZX was priced at approximately $18,000.
The final generation Celica (2000s) was priced between $20,000 and $25,000, mirroring the price point of competitors like the Honda Civic Si (approximately $18,000 to $22,000), Ford Mustang (around $20,000 to $25,000), and Mazda RX-8 (approximately $25,000 to $30,000).
Today, the Celica will compete with models like the Dodge Charger Daytona, Ford Mustang V8, BMW M2, Nissan Z, Audi RS3, Toyota GR Supra, and Chevrolet Corvette. It comes armed with a rally-bred chassis, mid-engined 400-hp turbo engine, and all-wheel drive.
Who knows, Toyota might consider branding the new coupe under the Lexus nameplate to attract deep-pocketed drivers.
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