Toyota Celica, MR2 Set to Make a Return Soon: Report

Japanese sports car fans rejoice – the Toyota Celica and MR2 are reportedly set to make a comeback, with big-time power flowing to all four wheels.

At this year’s Tokyo Auto Show, Toyota somewhat shocked the world by debuting something not many people would have ever expected to see – the brand new G20E 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that’s reportedly capable of churning out 400 horsepower in standard guise, or as much as 600 horsepower in high-performance sports car applications. As one would expect, this surprise debut immediately had everyone thinking the same thing – what does the Japanese automaker have planned for this exciting new powerplant? Turns out, the tea leaves (and a few reports) indicate that it’s slated to be used in a rebirth of both the Toyota Celica and MR2.

Last November, a Toyota-produced anime series called Grip hinted at the potential return of Toyota Celica and MR2, after which Toyota executive vice president Yuki Nakajima confirmed to Best Car that the Celica was part of the automaker’s future plans. Now, NDTV is reporting that the Toyota Celica and MR2 are set to be revived for a new generation, with an official unveiling occurring by next year – right alongside the long-anticipated Lexus LFR.

As far as what these reborn sports cars might look like, well, that much is up for debate, aside from the inclusion of the new, aforementioned powerplant. The GR Yaris M concept could serve as the basis for the MR2, specifically, given its mid-engine layout (just like the original offered). Gazoo Racing chief engineer Naohiko Saito recently told AutoExpress all-wheel-drive could also be on the table for such a machine as well, which is undoubtedly interesting.

As far as the Celica goes, rumors indicate that it will take the same sort of approach as its predecessor, giving fans a more traditional front-engine Japanese sports car offering with turbocharged power and all-wheel-drive that may also be accompanied by a new motorsports version set to compete in the World Rally Championship (WRC) as well. Any of these possibilities sound like music to the ears of Japanese sports car fans, models that seem to be enjoying a bit of a renaissance as of late.

Photos: Toyota

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.