The Celica, under whispers of restoration, what type of vehicle is it?
Toyota Revives the Iconic Celica: A Return to Rally Glory
Toyota has confirmed that the Celica, a beloved icon of rally fans, is set to make a comeback by the end of 2026. The eighth-generation model will be developed by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division, with a mid-engine 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing around 400 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive.
The Celica's history is deeply rooted in rallying, and the ST165 model, introduced in 1985, holds a significant place in this legacy. The ST165 was Toyota’s first turbocharged AWD Celica, marking the company’s serious entry into high-performance rallying. Its advanced AWD and turbocharging helped it achieve competitive success in the World Rally Championship (WRC).
The ST165, also known by its model code ST165, gained attention due to its appearance in the 1987 film Take Me Out to the Snowland. The model was praised for its fluid, intuitive handling, fast acceleration, and satisfying engine sound. Car Graphic’s January 1987 issue even featured a positive test drive review of the ST165, titled "Fantastic!".
The ST165 served as Toyota's technology image leader, sporting the company’s most advanced tech at the time. Its success in the FIA World Rally Championship, alongside the Corolla and Yaris, contributes to its enduring popularity among rally fans.
The fourth-generation Celica, which debuted in 1985, shifted from rear-wheel to front-wheel drive. The ST165's 4WD system was designed for safe, fast driving on paved or level roads, contrasting with Toyota’s previous part-time 4WD system.
While there is no hard news of a Celica revival from Toyota, Akio, a key figure in the automotive industry, has expressed interest in the model's return. During a live broadcast on September 10, 2023, Akio stated that he cannot confirm if a new Celica is in the works, but has expressed interest. Akio's comments have sparked interest and speculation about a potential revival of the model.
Akio mentioned Juha Kankkunen, a four-time WRC world champion who won several titles in the Celica, as a key figure in any potential Celica revival. Akio showcased a GR Yaris prototype during demo runs at Rally Hokkaido with Juha Kankkunen, hinting at Toyota's continued commitment to rallying.
In March 2023, during a talk event, Akio expressed a desire for a revival of the Toyota Celica. The Celica, first released in 1970 as Japan's first specialty coupe, has undergone multiple model changes. The Celica has received acclaim from automotive magazines throughout its history, with some reviewers suggesting that the ST165 "may well come to be regarded as a classic."
As Toyota prepares to revive the Celica, the automaker faces the challenge of balancing modern technology with the legacy of the rally icon. The new Celica is expected to retain its traditional internal combustion engine and rally heritage without hybrid or electric variants. However, there is ongoing debate about whether the engine layout will be front- or mid-mounted, as Toyota is testing both options.
Regardless of the final design, the revival of the Celica is an exciting development for rally fans and Toyota enthusiasts alike. The return of this iconic model promises to bring back memories of its rallying successes while pushing the boundaries of performance and technology.
The upcoming Celica revival by Toyota, planned for 2026, will not only appeal to rally fans but also attract the interest of finance professionals due to the expected investment in the automotive industry. The mid-engine 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and the manual transmission, choices popular in the racing industry, indicate a commitment to maintaining the Celica's lifestyle and automotive heritage. The transition of the Celica from rear-wheel to front-wheel drive in the fourth generation, and later to a more advanced all-wheel drive system in the ST165, mirrors advancements in the transportation industry. Consequently, the return of the Celica serves as a testament to Toyota's deep-rooted legacy in both the rallying and automotive sectors.
