Is Toyota Bringing Back the Celica? Here’s What We Know
The automotive world is buzzing with excitement as rumors swirl about the potential return of the iconic Toyota Celica. It’s been nearly two decades since the seventh-generation Celica rolled off the production line, but whispers from within Toyota suggest that a new model might be on the horizon. Let’s dive into what we know so far.
What’s Happening with the New Celica?
Reports indicate that the development of a new Celica is already in advanced stages. However, there’s a catch: it hasn’t been officially approved for the U.S. market yet. Toyota’s Senior Vice President of Product Planning and Strategy, Cooper Ericksen, hinted at the possibility, stating that they are working on a product that could theoretically carry the Celica name, provided they can pull it off and secure the necessary approvals.
This isn’t just idle chatter; Ericksen described the project as being in “pretty advanced development.” While specifics remain under wraps, it’s clear that prototypes and concept materials have already been shown to dealers, and test mules are currently evaluating various powertrains. So, there’s definitely movement behind the scenes.
What Will the New Celica Look Like?
While fans are eager to see what the new Celica will look like, Toyota executives have downplayed the accuracy of unofficial renderings circulating online. This suggests that the design might take a different direction than what’s currently being speculated. The anticipation is palpable, but until official images are released, we’ll have to rely on our imaginations.
Could It Be Electric?
Interestingly, the new Celica might not follow the electric trend that’s sweeping the automotive industry. Ericksen pointed out that Toyota’s president, Akio Toyoda, believes it’s challenging to replicate the emotional driving experience of traditional internal combustion engines (ICE) with electric vehicles. This opens the door for a Celica that could retain its sporty, gas-powered roots, which would certainly please purists.
Where Is the Development Happening?
The development of the new Celica is reportedly taking place in Japan, which means U.S. officials might not have all the details—or at least aren’t sharing them. However, it seems there’s a strong desire within Toyota to bring this model to the American market, which could reignite the passion for sports cars among fans.
What About Pricing and Positioning?
As for pricing, it’s still too early to tell. The last Celica, back in 2005, started at around $19,830, which would be roughly $33,400 today when adjusted for inflation. This aligns closely with the current pricing of the 2025 GR86, which starts at about $30,000 before destination fees. With the Supra exiting the market and the GR86 still relatively new, there’s room for the Celica to carve out its niche.
The Future of the Celica
While the return of the Celica is not yet set in stone, the fact that it’s being discussed is a win for enthusiasts who have longed for its comeback. Whether it will ultimately make its way into showrooms remains uncertain, but at least the name is back in the conversation, sparking hope and excitement among fans.
The big takeaway? The potential revival of the Celica isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about Toyota’s commitment to delivering thrilling driving experiences. Keep an eye on this space—if the Celica does return, it could be a game-changer in the sports car segment. Start dreaming about that new ride, because the future looks promising!