Toyota Celica: Possible Return as a Sports EV under the GR Banner
Speculation is stirring in automotive circles about a revival of the Toyota Celica, a name steeped in rally heritage and sporty appeal. The chatter originated in Japan where BestCarWeb suggested the Celica could be brought back as a modern sports electric model. In Tokyo, Akio Toyoda, the chairman of Toyota, has long expressed a fondness for the Celica lineage, a sentiment that resonates with fans who remember its bold design and competitive spirit. In response, the company’s new president Koji Sato, who took the helm in April, signaled an intent to explore reintroducing the badge in a form that fits today’s electrified performance landscape. These remarks were reported after inquiries by Toyota Motor Corporation’s press office, which noted plans to expand on the existing GR sports car family as a platform for future adventures.
Historically, the Toyota Celica was a defining sports coupe produced from 1970 through 2006, spanning seven generations. Its production decline came as market demand shifted toward other body styles and powertrain configurations, but the Celica remains a touchstone for driving enthusiasts who remember its lightweight chassis, balanced dynamics, and rally pedigree. The potential return taps into this nostalgia while aligning with Toyota’s broader strategy to electrify its lineup without surrendering the emotional appeal that has always accompanied the Celica name.
Alongside these Celica rumors, recent reports highlighted Toyota’s exploration of new market moves, including a crossover called Omoda 3 that made waves in China and could find opportunities in Russia. While these developments are separate from the Celica conversation, they illustrate Toyota’s ongoing push to blend performance heritage with modern, global demand. (Source attribution: BestCarWeb)