In light of Resurrection Talks, Identifying the Make of the Celica Car Model
Toyota to Revive the Celica: A Modern Sports Car on the Horizon
In an exciting development for rally fans, Toyota is set to revive the iconic Celica, a name that stands alongside the Corolla and Yaris in the hearts of enthusiasts. Akio, the company's president, expressed his desire for a Celica revival during a talk event on March 5, 2023, but stopped short of confirming a new model.
While the specifics of the new Celica remain under wraps, recent reports suggest it will be a dramatic departure from the classic front-engine, rear-wheel or front/all-wheel-drive Celicas like the ST165. Instead, the upcoming Celica is rumored to feature a mid-engine layout with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing around 300 kW (approximately 400 hp), potentially exceeding 600 hp with upgrades.
The ST165, first introduced in 1986, was Toyota's first full-time 4WD and was praised for its fluid, intuitive handling, fast acceleration, and satisfying engine sound. Car Graphic magazine hailed it as "Fantastic!" in their January 1987 issue, and the ST165's popularity led to it being commonly known by its model code. The car also served as Toyota's technology image leader, showcasing advanced technology, and even starred in the 1987 hit film Take Me Out to the Snowland.
The ST165's 4WD system was designed for safe, fast driving on paved or level roads, and the car's success in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) further cemented its legacy. Four-time WRC world champion Juha Kankkunen, who won titles in the Celica, is reportedly involved in the potential revival.
Intriguingly, the revival of the Celica with a mid-engine layout brings it closer to the returning MR2, traditionally a mid-engine sports car, raising speculation about how both models will coexist. The new Celica could be unveiled at the 2027 Tokyo Auto Salon, with targeted launches of both Celica and MR2 revivals expected around 2026–2027.
Toyota has a history of bringing back long-selling models, and while there is no confirmed news about a revival of the Toyota Celica that specifically focuses on the ST165 model, the company is clearly aiming for a modern sports car incarnation with new technology, a mid-engine design, and high performance. The revival emphasizes a fresh approach rather than a direct continuation of the ST165 lineage.
[1] Autocar [2] Motor1 [3] Car and Driver [4] Top Gear [5] Motor Authority
- The forthcoming Celica, inspired by the iconic ST165 model, could shake up the automotive industry, as Toyota aims to create a modern sports car that promises new technology, a mid-engine design, and high performance, worthy of coverage in industry-leading publications like Autocar, Motor1, Car and Driver, Top Gear, and Motor Authority.
- In a move that could significantly impact the finance sector, the anticipated revival of the Toyota Celica and the returning MR2 could potentially increase revenues, as the demand for high-performance sports cars in the lifestyle market will likely boost sales.
- Transportation enthusiasts will soon have two exciting choices in the Toyota lineup, as the future Celica's revival and the return of the iconic MR2 have the potential to revolutionize the industry, making headlines in automotive communities and enthusiast magazines such as Car Graphic.
