Report: Toyota Previewed Next-Generation Celica for Dealers

The Toyota Celica is one of those cars that is almost universally loved, but it has been two decades since the sporty coupe has graced dealers’ lots. The rumor mill has been busy in recent years, as spy shots and trademark applications have suggested that a new Celica could be on its way. Those whispers recently gained a lot more credibility, as MotorTrend reported that Toyota gave dealers a sneak peek at the new car, which could arrive with a gas-powered engine.

Toyota’s North American VP of product planning, Cooper Ericksen, told the publication that the automaker has had test cars on the streets for a while now, saying the potential eighth-generation Celica is in “pretty advanced development.” Ericksen didn’t hint at the car’s powertrain, but he left the door open to both internal combustion and electrification. Given the upcoming Honda Prelude’s revival as a hybrid, it would be disappointing but not surprising to see Toyota follow suit.

We also don’t have even a rough timeline for the Celica’s release, though it’s likely pretty far in the future. Toyota’s GR division is currently grappling with tariffs and is planning to move some GR Corolla production to the UK to reduce their impact, so there’s no telling how, when, or where the automaker might build the new cars.

[Images: Toyota]

Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.