Toyota has announced plans to revive the iconic Celica model for the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 2027. The revamped vehicle will meet the latest category requirements, evoking nostalgia among rally enthusiasts.
General Motors is countering the growing presence of Chinese automakers in the US market with the introduction of the Buick Electra GS, a hybrid sedan. The vehicle is part of the company's efforts to expand its offerings and compete with rival brands in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle segment.
Toyota has officially announced that its factory team will utilize the GR Celica Rally1, a vehicle that will heavily draw from the technical advancements made in the GR Yaris Rally1.
A Tesla vehicle has reportedly achieved a significant milestone, having covered a substantial distance with a total of four battery replacements and 13 engine overhauls.
The primary distinction between the two models will be evident in the body design, with the remaining key components mirroring each other closely.
Toyota has devised a unique strategy, which involves dividing its racing stake into two distinct entities: Toyota Racing and Gazoo Racing Toyota. These separate structures will compete with different vehicles under identical conditions.
Toyota Racing will introduce the GR Celica Rally1 to its lineup, with the GR Yaris Rally1 continuing as the flagship vehicle for Gazoo Racing Toyota.
The 2026 world champion, Elfyn Evans, alongside co-driver Scott Martin, will lead the Celica lineup. Evans will be joined by fellow drivers Oliver Solberg and Sami Pajari. Meanwhile, Ott Tänak, Takamoto Katsuta, and Kalle Rovanperä will comprise the second team.
Approval for the new model is expected to be granted by the end of 2026, with development taking place in Jyväskylä, Finland.
The Toyota Celica holds significant significance in the World Rally Championship, having been instrumental in securing multiple titles. Notably, Carlos Sainz claimed championships in 1990 and 1992, while Juha Kankkunen and Didier Auriol added to the Celica's success with victories in 1993 and 1994.
Following a string of six consecutive constructor championships, Toyota has solidified its standing as a dominant force within the global rally racing community, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing success.
Rumors surrounding a production-ready version of the Toyota Celica are intensifying following the sporty concept's unveiling. According to reports, the automaker is reportedly developing a high-performance sports car featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, estimated to produce around 400 horsepower and all-wheel drive capabilities.
The proposed model is expected to be available with two transmission options: a manual six-speed gearbox and an automatic eight-speed transmission. However, a specific launch date has yet to be officially confirmed.
Toyota's sports division is actively pursuing several projects, including the GR GT and a potential revival of the MR2. Meanwhile, the Celica Rally1 is spearheading an initiative to revive a historic nameplate and restore it to a competitive stage where it previously achieved notable success.
