HYDERABAD, India (GizTimes) — Toyota is developing a new performance car under its Gazoo Racing division, which is expected to replace the current Supra after it retires later this year. The new model is likely to be called the Celica Sport, bringing back a well-known name from Toyota’s past.
According to available details, the new Celica Sport will use an all-wheel-drive setup, taking inspiration from older rally-focused Celica models. This marks a shift from the later front-wheel-drive versions of the car and connects the new model more closely with Toyota’s motorsport history.
The car will be powered by a new 2.0-litre turbocharged hybrid engine. This is a change from Toyota’s current 1.6-litre engine used in models like the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, which may not meet future emission rules. The new engine has been redesigned to stay compact so it can fit hybrid components without adding too much extra weight.
Toyota has not shared final performance numbers, but early estimates suggest the car could produce around 400 horsepower. Some reports also suggest higher outputs could be possible depending on the setup, though these figures are not officially confirmed.
The hybrid system is still being tested, and it is not yet clear whether the car will use a regular hybrid system or a plug-in hybrid setup.
The Celica Sport is also expected to play a role in motorsport. Test vehicles have been seen during rally testing, and the model could form the base for Toyota’s future World Rally Championship car under new rules expected in 2027.
Public reactions on Reddit show a lot of excitement, mixed with a few concerns. Some users feel very nostalgic about the Celica name, saying it reminds them of older cars and even video games they played when they were younger. For them, this is not just a new car but something emotional, and they say they would seriously consider buying it if it has good power. Others are excited but a bit cautious. They are hoping the car comes to markets like the US, but at the same time, they are unsure about the hybrid setup. Some feel hybrid cars may not give the same driving feel as traditional performance cars.
A few users also focused on driving experience. They said they would like the car to come with a manual gearbox and all-wheel drive. For them, that combination would make the car much more fun to drive, and some even said they would replace their current cars if it offers that setup. Overall, people are interested and hopeful, but they want Toyota to get the driving experience right.
The new engine being developed for this car is likely to be used in other future performance models as well. This could include possible updates to cars like the GR Corolla and other Gazoo Racing vehicles.
Toyota has not announced a launch date yet, but development is ongoing and more details are expected to be shared in the coming months.
