Toyota is set to thrill automotive enthusiasts with the rumored revival of two iconic gasoline-powered sports cars, defying the industry’s electric vehicle push. Among these exciting prospects, the Toyota Celica 2024 is generating significant buzz, promising a potent blend of performance and heritage for a new generation.
Against a backdrop of relentless electric and hybrid vehicle development, Toyota is strategically catering to a passionate niche that still craves the raw emotion and engagement of a traditional sports car. While the EV market expands, Toyota recognizes the enduring appeal of gasoline engines, particularly in the sports car segment. This approach is evident in their recent lineup of sporty coupes like the GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR86, all powered by internal combustion engines.
According to credible sources in Japan, including the influential car magazine Best Car, Toyota is planning to resurrect not just one, but two legendary nameplates: the MR2 and the Celica. Importantly for purists, these revivals are expected to shun electrification, focusing instead on delivering pure, unadulterated gasoline-powered driving experiences.
While the official names are yet to be confirmed, the anticipation for a new Toyota Celica 2024 is palpable. The electric FT-Se concept, unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show, offers intriguing design cues that might hint at the styling direction of the new MR2, particularly in its silhouette and pillar design. Given the expected mid-engine configuration of the MR2, the FT-Se’s design language could translate, in part, to the overall aesthetic of the revived Celica as well, albeit adapted to its front-engine layout.
These developments signal a bold move by Toyota, reaffirming their commitment to sports car enthusiasts who appreciate the visceral thrill of gasoline engines. The decision to bring back both the Celica and MR2 without electrification underscores Toyota’s confidence in the enduring appeal of this market segment.
The Potent Powertrain of the Toyota Celica 2024: 400 Horsepower Turbocharged Engine
Both the Toyota Celica 2024 and its MR2 sibling are rumored to share a formidable engine: a 2.0-liter turbocharged powerplant generating an impressive 400 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. For the Celica, this engine will be positioned upfront, delivering power to all four wheels, while in the MR2, it will take a mid-engine configuration. This level of power promises exhilarating performance, with projected 0-60 mph acceleration times of around 4 seconds, especially considering the MR2’s anticipated lightweight build of approximately 2860 lbs.
This engine is distinct from the acclaimed 1.6-liter turbo found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. However, the Toyota Celica 2024 is expected to inherit the rally-proven GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system from the Corolla, ensuring exceptional grip and handling. Drivers will also have the choice between a classic 6-speed manual transmission and a responsive 8-speed automatic, catering to diverse driving preferences.
A Nod to Heritage: The Legacy of Celica and MR2
The Celica boasts a rich history, first introduced in 1970 and spanning seven generations before production concluded in 2006. It achieved significant popularity and critical acclaim, notably with the Celica Liftback GT earning Motor Trend’s prestigious Car of the Year award in 1976. The MR2, debuting in 1984, enjoyed a three-generation run until 2007. The second-generation MR2, launched in 1989, even earned the moniker “Poor Man’s Ferrari” due to its styling resemblance to the Ferrari 348, highlighting its aspirational design and sporty nature.
The revival of the Toyota Celica 2024 and MR2 is not just about nostalgia; it’s about tapping into a market that values driving purity and performance. With a targeted launch window in mid-to-late 2026, the MR2 is expected to be developed by Toyota’s specialized GRMN (Gazoo Racing Meister of Nurburgring) division and offered in limited quantities, potentially priced around $65,000. The Toyota Celica 2024, built by Toyota, is anticipated to be more accessible, with an estimated price point of around $42,000.
Conclusion: The Exciting Future of Toyota Sports Cars
The impending arrival of the Toyota Celica 2024 and MR2 marks an exciting chapter for Toyota and sports car enthusiasts globally. By choosing to stay true to the gasoline engine, Toyota is delivering a clear message: the thrill of driving is alive and well. As details continue to emerge, the automotive world eagerly awaits the official unveiling of these legendary nameplates, poised to redefine the sports car landscape once again.
