Toyota Celica and MR2 may return with turbo engine and all-wheel drive (Instagram @toyota_gazoo_racing)
Toyota may be bringing back two of its 1990s icons: the Celica and the MR2. Reports indicate that the Celica has already been confirmed, while the GR Yaris M concept, with a mid-engine, suggests that a new MR2 may be in development.
Both models will likely be equipped with the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder G20E turbo engine, recently unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, showing that the automaker is still investing in sports cars, even in an era dominated by electrification and crossovers.
With the departure of the Supra and no immediate replacement planned, the return of a high-performance, two-seater sports car could fill a strategic gap in Toyota’s lineup.
Although details of the MR2 remain uncertain, there are indications that it will feature all-wheel drive. The Celica could be reborn as a modern version of the All-Trac, featuring all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine, which also opens up possibilities for Toyota’s future involvement in the WRC, given the category’s more flexible rules.
Even while focused on high-volume models like the RAV4 and Camry, Toyota appears willing to invest in more enthusiast-oriented vehicles. Currently, a prototype of the GR Yaris with a mid-engine is in testing, which may indicate the evolution of the project toward a new MR2.
Source: Car and Driver | Photo: Instagram @toyota_gazoo_racing | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
