2027 Toyota Celica: Release Date, Price, GR Celica Specs and Everything We Know

The Toyota Celica is coming back, and car fans across the United States are excited. After almost 20 years away, Toyota is working on a new Celica, and the name is already linked to the brand’s 2027 rally program. Search interest in the “2027 Toyota Celica” has jumped, but there is also a lot of confusion online. Is it a 2027 model? Will it be called the GR Celica? Will it have a mid-engine layout, all-wheel drive or a hybrid system? And how much will it cost?

In this guide, we explain everything we know so far about the new Toyota Celica, including the expected release date, expected price, engine and specs, the GR Celica name, the WRC rally car, the design, the interior and how it compares with rivals like the Honda Prelude. We clearly separate what Toyota has confirmed from what is still a report or rumor, and we give our expected details where nothing is official yet.

2027 Toyota Celica at a Glance

Is the Toyota Celica Really Coming Back?

Yes. This is no longer just a fan wish. At Rally Japan in November 2024, Toyota executive vice president Kazuaki Nakajima told the crowd that Toyota was working on a new Celica, which was the first time a senior Toyota leader publicly backed the comeback. Since then, more signs have appeared:

• Toyota has registered the “GR Celica” name, which points to a Gazoo Racing performance model.
• Toyota has shown its new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, which is widely expected to power the new Celica.
• A two-door rally prototype has been spotted testing in Europe, and many reports say it will compete as a Celica in the 2027 World Rally Championship.
• Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda has repeatedly talked about the Celica’s rally history, which many fans see as a strong hint.

So the big question is not whether the Celica is coming back, but when the road car will arrive and what it will look like.

A Quick Look Back at the Celica

The Celica was one of Toyota’s most famous sports cars. It was sold from 1970 to 2006 across seven generations. Earlier Celicas were stylish rear-wheel-drive coupes, while later versions moved to front-wheel drive. The most legendary versions were the all-wheel-drive Celica GT-Four models, which won World Rally Championship titles in the 1990s with drivers like Carlos Sainz and Juha Kankkunen. That rally history is exactly why the new Celica is expected to be a high-performance, all-wheel-drive car. Toyota ended Celica production in 2006, and the name has been missing from showrooms ever since.

Toyota Celica Generations Through the Years

The Celica’s Rally Legacy

The Celica is one of the most successful rally cars in history. In the World Rally Championship, Celica drivers won the drivers’ title four times in the 1990s: Carlos Sainz in 1990 and 1992, Juha Kankkunen in 1993 and Didier Auriol in 1994. Toyota also won the manufacturers’ title with the Celica in 1993 and 1994. This history is a big reason why Toyota is expected to bring the name back as an all-wheel-drive performance car, and why the rally world is so excited about a Celica returning to the WRC.

Timeline of the Celica Comeback

What Does the Name Celica Mean?

The name Celica comes from the Latin word “coelica,” which means heavenly or celestial. Toyota chose the name in 1970 to give its new coupe a special and premium feel. More than 50 years later, the name still carries a lot of emotion for car fans, which is one reason Toyota is bringing it back instead of creating a completely new name.

Why Fans Love the Celica

For many drivers in the US, the Celica was their first sporty car. It was affordable, reliable and fun, and it looked great on the road. Later models also became popular in tuning culture and appeared in movies and video games, which introduced the Celica to younger fans who never saw one new in a showroom. That mix of nostalgia and real rally success is why the comeback has created so much excitement online.

2027 Toyota Celica Release Date

Toyota has not announced an official release date for the new Celica. Here is what the timeline looks like based on current reports.

When Will the 2027 Toyota Celica Come Out?

Most reports suggest the following timeline:

This means the “2027 Toyota Celica” is most likely the year Toyota shows the car, while the first road cars could be sold as a 2028 model in the US. Toyota often reveals performance models first and starts sales several months later, as it did with the GR Corolla and GR Supra.

Toyota Celica 2027 Release Date in the USA

The US is one of the most important markets for Toyota’s GR performance cars, so we expect the new Celica to be sold here. If the reveal happens in 2027, US buyers could see the first cars at dealers between late 2027 and 2028. Early demand will likely be very high, so the first year may come with limited numbers, waiting lists and possible dealer markups, just like the GR Corolla when it launched.

2027 Toyota Celica Price (Expected)

Toyota has not announced the price of the new Celica. To estimate it, we looked at Toyota’s current GR models and the features the Celica is expected to have, such as a powerful turbo engine and all-wheel drive.

These are our expected prices, not official Toyota figures. A Celica with around 400 horsepower and all-wheel drive should sit above the GR Corolla in Toyota’s lineup and below the GR Supra. If Toyota adds a hybrid system, the price could go a little higher.

Toyota Celica 2027 Price Compared With Other Sports Cars

Here is how the expected Celica price compares with other sporty cars in the US:

• Toyota GR86: the most affordable Toyota sports car, with rear-wheel drive and a smaller engine.
• Toyota GR Corolla: an all-wheel-drive hot hatch with a turbo three-cylinder engine.
• Honda Prelude: a sporty hybrid coupe focused on comfort and efficiency rather than outright speed.
• Toyota GR Supra: a more expensive rear-wheel-drive sports car with a six-cylinder option.

The new Celica is expected to fill the gap between the GR Corolla and the GR Supra, offering more power than the GR Corolla in a stylish two-door body.

2027 Toyota Celica Engine and Specs

The new Celica’s engine is one of the most exciting parts of the story. Toyota has been developing a new family of compact engines, and the Celica is expected to use the most powerful one.

The New 2.0-Liter Turbo Engine (G20E)

Toyota’s new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, known in reports as the G20E, is the engine most closely linked to the new Celica. Toyota engineers have said they are targeting around 400 horsepower for road versions, while race versions with a larger turbo could make more than 600 horsepower. A Gazoo Racing manager also explained that the current 1.6-liter engine used in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla will struggle to meet future emissions rules, which is one reason Toyota is moving to the new 2.0-liter engine.

Where the New Engine Came From

Toyota first showed its new compact engine family in May 2024 at a joint event with Mazda and Subaru, where the three companies talked about future engines for a low-carbon world. Toyota presented two new engines: a 1.5-liter and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Both are smaller and lighter than older Toyota engines and are designed to work with hybrid systems and cleaner fuels. The more powerful 2.0-liter turbo version is the one expected for performance models like the new Celica.

Being smaller and shorter, the new engine also allows designers to lower the hood line. That is important for a sports car, because a lower hood makes the car look sleeker and can help with aerodynamics. This could give the new Celica a lower and more aggressive front end than many fans expect.

Expected 2027 Toyota Celica Specs

Please note that only the engine size and the power target have been discussed by Toyota engineers. The transmission choices, hybrid system and acceleration figures are based on reports and our own estimates.

Toyota Celica 2027 HP: How Powerful Will It Be?

If Toyota hits its target of around 400 horsepower, the new Celica will be one of the most powerful four-cylinder cars Toyota has ever sold. That would make it stronger than the GR Corolla and close to the GR Supra. A hybrid system could add even more performance while helping fuel economy and emissions.

Will the New Celica Be a Hybrid?

Toyota has said it has not yet decided whether the new 2.0-liter engine will use a regular hybrid or a plug-in hybrid system in some models. Some reports expect the Celica to use a self-charging hybrid setup, which would help it meet strict emissions rules in Europe and the US. A non-hybrid version is also possible, especially for buyers who want a lighter and simpler sports car. We expect Toyota to confirm this when it reveals the production car.

Mid-Engine or Front-Engine? The Platform Question

Many searches ask about the “Toyota Celica 2027 mid-engine platform.” This is one of the most confusing topics around the new Celica, because reports have pointed in different directions.

• Mid-engine reports: Some early reports said the new Celica would share a mid-engine platform with a future sports car, possibly related to the GR Yaris M prototype that Toyota has shown in racing.
• Front-engine reports: More recent reports say the Celica will use a front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout based on parts from the next-generation Corolla platform, which would help keep costs reasonable.

Our view is that the front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout is more likely for the Celica, because it fits the car’s rally history and the GR Corolla’s proven AWD system. A mid-engine Toyota sports car is still possible, but it is more likely to revive the MR2 name. You can learn more about that car in our Toyota MR2 comeback guide.

2027 Toyota GR Celica

The new car will almost certainly wear the GR (Gazoo Racing) badge, which Toyota uses for its performance models. Toyota has registered the “GR Celica” name, and the car is expected to sit in the same family as the GR86, GR Corolla and GR Supra.

What Does GR Mean for the Celica?

A GR badge usually means:

• Performance tuning developed with Toyota’s racing team
• Upgraded suspension, brakes and steering
• Sporty styling with wide fenders and aggressive bumpers
• A focus on driving fun over comfort

Some reports also mention a “Celica Sport” name. It is possible that Toyota could sell more than one version, such as a GR Celica performance model and a slightly softer Celica for everyday drivers, but this has not been confirmed.

Will There Be a 2027 Toyota Celica GT or GT-Four?

Fans are searching for a “2027 Toyota Celica GT” and “Toyota Celica GT-Four 2027” because of the famous rally models from the past. Toyota has not announced any GT or GT-Four trim names for the new car. However, since the new Celica is expected to have all-wheel drive, it will be the spiritual successor to the GT-Four. Toyota could bring back the GT-Four name for a special edition, which would be a smart way to connect the new car to its rally history.

2027 Toyota Celica WRC Rally Car

The rally program is one of the strongest signs that the Celica is returning. Toyota Gazoo Racing has been testing a new two-door rally prototype to replace the GR Yaris Rally1 car. It was first tested in Portugal in early 2026 and was later spotted in Spain with former world champion Ott Tänak behind the wheel.

What We Know About the Celica Rally Car

• It is a two-door coupe with wide fenders, a large hood scoop, big front air intakes and a fixed rear wing.
• It is expected to compete in the 2027 World Rally Championship season.
• A well-known rally co-driver reportedly said Toyota’s 2027 rally car will be a Celica.
• Under the rules, the rally car uses a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and a special racing chassis, so it will be mechanically different from the road car.

Why the Rally Car Matters for the Road Car

Toyota’s GR models are built around the idea of “road cars made from motorsport.” The GR Yaris, for example, was created to support Toyota’s rally program. If the new rally car is called the Celica, Toyota will almost certainly sell a road-going Celica that shares its look and spirit. That is why many experts see the 2027 Toyota Celica WRC car as the first real preview of the road car’s design.

Expected 2027 Toyota Celica Trims

Toyota has not announced trim levels. Based on how Toyota sells the GR Corolla and GR Supra in the US, we expect a lineup similar to this:

Toyota likes to launch its GR models with a limited special edition, so a “first edition” or rally-themed Celica would not be a surprise. If that happens, expect it to sell out quickly.

Expected 2027 Toyota Celica Colors

Toyota has not released colors for the new Celica. Based on the colors used on other GR models and the rally prototype, we expect options like:

• Bright red, a classic sports car color
• White, possibly with GR or rally-inspired graphics
• Black or dark gray metallic
• Silver metallic
• A bold blue or yellow special color for launch editions

A two-tone option with a black roof would also fit the car’s sporty character. We will update this list once Toyota confirms the official colors.

2027 Toyota Celica Design and Exterior

Toyota has not shown the production Celica yet, but the rally prototype and the company’s current design style give us a good idea of what to expect.

Expected Exterior Features

• Two-door coupe body with a sleek fastback roofline.
• Sharp LED headlights, possibly similar to Toyota’s latest Corolla and Prius designs.
• Wide fenders and side skirts to fit a wide track and larger wheels.
• Hood scoop and front air intakes for engine cooling.
• Full-width rear light bar connecting the taillights.
• Rear spoiler, possibly with a larger wing on track-focused versions.

2027 Toyota Celica Concept and Renderings

Many images of a “2027 Toyota Celica concept” are shared online. Most of them are digital renderings made by independent artists, not official Toyota images. Some are based on the rally prototype, while others mix design ideas from the Prius, GR86 and older Celicas. These renderings are fun to look at, but the real car could look quite different. We will update this page as soon as Toyota shares official images.

2027 Toyota Celica Interior

Toyota has not shown the new Celica’s interior. Based on Toyota’s latest GR models, here is what we expect inside the 2027 Toyota Celica:

• A driver-focused cockpit with a digital instrument cluster
• A central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Sport seats with strong side support
• A manual gear lever or a sporty automatic shifter
• Physical buttons for important controls like climate and drive modes
• A 2+2 seating layout, with small rear seats for short trips or extra storage
• GR badges, contrast stitching and suede-like trim on higher versions

As a GR model, the Celica is expected to focus more on driving feel than luxury, but we expect modern tech and safety features to be included.

Safety and Technology

We expect the new Celica to include a version of Toyota Safety Sense, with features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Performance features could include selectable drive modes, an adjustable all-wheel-drive system that changes the front-to-rear power split, launch control and a track mode, similar to what Toyota offers on the GR Corolla.

2027 Toyota Celica vs Honda Prelude

The Honda Prelude has returned as a sporty hybrid coupe, so many buyers want to know how the new Celica will compare. Here is a simple comparison based on what we know and expect:

In short, the Celica is expected to be a much more serious performance car, while the Prelude is a softer and more efficient sporty coupe. You can read more in our Honda Prelude guide. Fans of classic Japanese sports cars may also enjoy our look at the Honda S2000 comeback rumors.

2027 Toyota Celica vs Toyota GR Corolla and GR86

The new Celica will join a strong lineup of Toyota sports cars. Here is how it should fit in:

• GR86: the entry-level, rear-wheel-drive sports car for pure driving fun on a budget.
• GR Corolla: a practical all-wheel-drive hot hatch with four doors and a turbo three-cylinder engine.
• GR Celica: a more powerful and stylish all-wheel-drive coupe with the new 2.0-liter turbo engine.
• GR Supra: the flagship rear-wheel-drive sports car.

If Toyota reaches its power target, the Celica could even match or beat the GR Supra on paper, while offering all-wheel-drive grip that makes it faster off the line and more confident in bad weather. If you want rally-style performance in a coupe body, the Celica could be the most exciting choice in Toyota’s lineup.

How Will the New Celica Drive?

Nobody outside Toyota has driven the road-going Celica yet, but we can make a few educated guesses based on the GR Corolla and GR Yaris, which use similar ideas.

• Strong acceleration: with around 400 horsepower and all-wheel drive, the Celica should launch hard and feel very quick in everyday driving.
• Adjustable all-wheel drive: Toyota’s GR-Four system lets drivers change how much power goes to the front and rear wheels. A rear-biased setting makes the car feel playful, while an even split gives maximum grip.
• Rally-tuned suspension: expect a firm but controlled ride that works well on twisty roads and rough surfaces.
• Driver focus: Toyota’s GR team is known for building cars that are fun at normal speeds, not just on a race track.

A hybrid system, if Toyota adds one, could improve throttle response and add extra torque at low speeds. Toyota already uses advanced hybrid systems in everyday models like the 2027 Toyota RAV4, and a performance-tuned version would fit the Celica well.

Expected Fuel Economy

Fuel economy will depend on whether the Celica uses a hybrid system. A non-hybrid Celica with around 400 horsepower would probably return fuel economy similar to other powerful turbo sports cars, roughly in the low to mid 20s mpg combined. A hybrid version could do noticeably better. Toyota has not shared any fuel economy figures yet, so treat these as rough expectations.

2027 Toyota Celica for Sale

You cannot buy a new 2027 Toyota Celica yet, because Toyota has not revealed the production car or opened orders. If you see a “2027 Toyota Celica for sale” listing today, be careful. It is most likely an advertisement, a reservation offer or a misleading listing. Real orders should only open after Toyota announces official prices and specs.

Tips for Buyers Who Want the New Celica

• Contact your local Toyota dealer and ask to be added to an interest list once orders open.
• Do not pay large deposits before Toyota announces official prices.
• Expect high demand and possible dealer markups during the first year.
• Plan your budget, including insurance, which can be higher for performance cars. You can get an idea with our car insurance calculator without personal info.

Why the Celica Comeback Makes Sense for Toyota

Toyota has been rebuilding its sports car lineup over the past few years. The GR86, GR Supra, GR Corolla and GR Yaris have shown that there is still strong demand for fun-to-drive cars. Bringing back the Celica makes sense for several reasons:

• Strong brand history: the Celica name is famous around the world, especially among fans of Japanese cars.
• Rally connection: the Celica won major rally titles, and Toyota is still a top team in the WRC.
• New engine: the new 2.0-liter turbo engine needs a flagship model to show off its performance.
• Competition: the return of the Honda Prelude shows that sporty coupes are coming back.
• Brand image: exciting cars help Toyota attract younger buyers.

Owning a New Toyota Celica: What to Expect

A high-performance car is exciting, but it also comes with some extra costs. Here is what future Celica owners should keep in mind:

• Insurance: sports cars with powerful engines usually cost more to insure, especially for younger drivers.
• Fuel: a 400-horsepower turbo engine will likely need premium fuel and will use more fuel than a regular compact car, although a hybrid system could help.
• Tires and brakes: performance tires and bigger brakes cost more to replace, especially if you drive on track days.
• Maintenance: Toyota’s reputation for reliability should help, and new Toyotas usually come with a free scheduled maintenance plan for the first two years or 25,000 miles.
• Resale value: Toyota GR models have held their value very well, and a limited-production Celica could be in high demand on the used market.

Should You Wait for the Celica or Buy a GR Corolla Now?

If you want an all-wheel-drive Toyota performance car today, the GR Corolla is already available and offers rally-style driving fun with four doors and a practical hatchback. If you want a two-door coupe with more power and a more exciting design, waiting for the new Celica makes sense. Keep in mind that the first Celicas may be hard to get, so waiting could mean a long delay. If you need a car soon, the GR Corolla or GR86 are strong choices. If you can wait until 2028, the Celica could be worth it.

What We Still Do Not Know

Even with all the reports and leaks, many important details are still unknown. Here is what Toyota still needs to confirm:

• The official name (GR Celica, Celica Sport or just Celica)
• The exact release date and model year for the US
• Official pricing and trim levels
• Whether it will use a hybrid system
• Final horsepower and torque figures
• Transmission choices, including whether a manual will be offered
• Final exterior design and interior layout
• Fuel economy ratings

We will update this article as soon as Toyota shares new information.

2027 Toyota Celica News Summary

• Toyota leaders have publicly said a new Celica is being developed.
• Toyota has registered the “GR Celica” name.
• A Celica-based rally car is expected for the 2027 WRC season.
• The road car is expected to use Toyota’s new 2.0-liter turbo engine with around 400 hp.
• All-wheel drive is expected, with a possible hybrid system.
• A road car reveal could happen in 2027, with US sales likely in late 2027 or 2028.
• Expected pricing is around $45,000 to $55,000.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Toyota Celica

Is Toyota bringing back the Celica in 2027?

Toyota is developing a new Celica, and a Celica-based rally car is expected to race in 2027. The road car could be revealed in 2027, but US sales may start in late 2027 or 2028.

How much will the 2027 Toyota Celica cost?

Toyota has not announced pricing. We expect the new Celica to start around $45,000, with higher versions reaching $50,000 to $55,000 or more.

What engine will the new Celica have?

The new Celica is expected to use Toyota’s new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, known as the G20E, with a target of around 400 horsepower in road form.

Will the 2027 Toyota Celica be all-wheel drive?

Yes, reports say the new Celica will have all-wheel drive, which fits its rally history and the GR-Four system used in the GR Corolla and GR Yaris.

Will the new Celica have a manual transmission?

Reports suggest a six-speed manual could be offered alongside an eight-speed automatic, but Toyota has not confirmed this.

Will the new Celica be mid-engine?

Early reports mentioned a mid-engine platform, but newer reports point to a front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout. A mid-engine Toyota sports car is more likely to be the future MR2.

Is the new Celica a hybrid?

Toyota has not decided yet. The new 2.0-liter engine could be paired with a hybrid system, and some reports expect a hybrid Celica, but a non-hybrid version is also possible.

What is the GR Celica?

GR Celica is the name Toyota has registered for the new performance Celica. GR stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s performance and motorsport brand.

Will the 2027 Celica be sold in the USA?

Toyota has not confirmed markets yet, but the US is a key market for Toyota’s GR cars, so we expect the new Celica to be sold in the US.

Final Thoughts

The 2027 Toyota Celica is one of the most exciting comebacks in the car world. Toyota is developing a new Celica, the name is expected to return in the World Rally Championship in 2027, and the road car could bring around 400 horsepower, all-wheel drive and a sporty two-door design. While many details are still not official, the signs are very strong. If you are a fan of Japanese sports cars, the new GR Celica is a car worth waiting for. Bookmark this page, because we will update it with official news, prices and specs as soon as Toyota reveals them.