Recently, the Toyota GR Celica has attracted a lot of attention from enthusiasts.
According to the latest reports, the trademark was filed by Toyota in the Brazilian National Institute of Industrial Property and the Ministry of Economy, with a filing date of 15 January and a publication date of 4 February.
Unfortunately, the application provides don’t have the new details about the upcoming eighth-generation sporty car. It is learnt that the highly anticipated sports car is expected to be powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine, which is expected to surpass the 400 Hp mark in terms of maximum horsepower.
Return of the Celica model?
Over the years, Toyota has won the hearts of many enthusiasts with its stable and reliable performance and excellent handling, and the registration of the GR Celica trademark certainly shows Toyota's determination to carry this tradition forward.
The return of the Celica has been widely rumoured for years, even though the seventh-generation model was discontinued back in 2006 and has no immediate successor. Toyota finally put the speculation to rest in November 2024, when Vice President Yuki Nakajima confirmed at a public event in Japan:
“We’re doing the Celica.”
Global release? Maybe.
Toyota's registration of the trademark in Brazil indicates that the GR Celica will probably be sold in South America alongside major markets such as Japan and Europe. However, its availability will ultimately depend on Toyota's wider strategy and whether the car's powertrain complies with regional emissions regulations - both of which are currently unclear.
A 400-HP AWD Turbo Coupe?
According to inside sources, the new Toyota GR Celica will be powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine that will achieve a peak output of over 400 Hp through advanced technology. As in, this power figure is undoubtedly a great attraction for consumers who are looking for an extremely fast experience.
Read also: New Toyota G20E Turbo Engine Now Available: Horsepower Up to 400 Hp
In addition, the powertrain is likely to be paired with AWD and possibly the GR-Four racing system from the GR Yaris and GR Corolla performance hatchbacks, heralding a new level of acceleration, handling stability and driving pleasure for the sports car.
Although the official information released to the public is still very limited, the Toyota GR Celica is expected to continue the sharp style and futuristic feel of the JDM model in its exterior design. Sharp lines, exaggerated air intakes and sporty body proportions are all likely to become its signature design elements.
The interior is also expected to adhere to the driver-centred design concept, with the latest digital dashboard and high-tech features, allowing drivers to feel the passion of speed while enjoying the convenience and safety and security brought about by technology.
Mid-engine or traditional front engine layout?
Historically, the seventh-generation Celica, sold between 1970 and 2006, was fitted with a front engine. Logically, the new model could continue this tradition, but recent reports from Japan claim that the GR Celica could feature a mid-engine layout.
When will it be launched?
No official launch date has been announced for Toyota's latest GR series addition, so we'll have to wait for more details later this year.
In recent years, JDM models in the global car market have been increasingly sought after by consumers and tuning enthusiasts due to their unique design and excellent performance. As Toyota's brand focusing on sports performance, the GR series has been attracting attention for its excellent racing genes and innovative technologies.
While more specific information about the Toyota GR Celica is still under wraps, the move to trademark the registration is enough to spark widespread speculation and anticipation.Industry insiders generally believe that this new car is not only expected to achieve breakthroughs in technology, but will also become another popular model for Toyota in the global high-performance sports car market.
Image source: AutoEvolution
Yasir Al-Mansouri have more than 10 years of experience in the automotive journalism world. He is an expert of automotive news articles, features, and reviews on cars, from the latest models to industry trends. He've built strong relationships with car manufacturers and industry experts. Connect with Yasir Al-Mansouri on LinkedIn to stay updated on all things automotive and join our exciting journey in exploring the world of automobiles.
