Toyota is making bold strides in the sports car market by breathing new life into the iconic Celica and MR2 models, alongside unveiling a new flagship Lexus supercar inspired by the legendary LFA. This ambitious move aims to rejuvenate Toyota’s sports car lineup, filling the void left by the outgoing GR Supra and the short-lived GR86 in Europe.
Reviving Iconic Names: Celica and MR2
The revival of the Celica and MR2 is a significant step in Toyota’s strategy to restore its sports car heritage. These models are set to be powered by the new G20E turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon. This engine is capable of producing over 400bhp for road use and more than 600bhp in motorsport scenarios.
The G20E engine was showcased in a modified GR Yaris, named the M Concept, featuring an unconventional mid-engine, four-wheel-drive layout. This configuration, reminiscent of the 1980s Group B rally cars, suggests Toyota’s intention to bring this setup to production. Tomoya Takahashi, president of Toyota’s GR division, hinted at its future integration, potentially in the new MR2.
The Anticipated Arrival of the New MR2
The new MR2, expected to reflect the FT-Se concept’s design, could be ready for production by 2028 if Toyota follows a typical four-year development cycle. However, with impending restrictions on pure petrol cars in markets like the UK and EU, Toyota might expedite its release. This earlier launch would allow the MR2 to serve as a successor to the GR Supra, which recently saw its A90 Final Edition model unveiled.
Celica’s Return and Motorsport Ambitions
The Celica is poised to be the first of the new models to hit the market, potentially reviving the GT-Four name from its World Rally Championship days. This model is likely to feature the G20E engine mounted at the front with four-wheel drive. The Celica’s return to motorsport is plausible, with the FIA expanding World Rally Championship regulations to accommodate a broader range of vehicle designs from 2027.
Lexus Supercar: The LFA Successor
Toyota’s Lexus division is also gearing up for a high-performance resurgence with a new supercar, expected to follow the GR GT3 concept. This vehicle, seen testing at renowned circuits like Spa-Francorchamps and the Nürburgring, is set for a 2026 debut in top-tier racing. Unlike the Celica and MR2, the Lexus supercar will house a potent twin-turbo V8 engine, potentially delivering 500-600 bhp.
The road version of this supercar will likely incorporate hybrid technology, as observed by silent electric starts during testing. Lexus has trademarked the name ‘LFR’, indicating its role as the LFA’s successor and underscoring its high-performance credentials.
Looking Ahead: Toyota’s Sporty Future
Toyota’s revitalisation of its sports car lineup with the new MR2, Celica, and Lexus supercar marks a significant chapter in its automotive narrative. By blending cutting-edge technology with nostalgic nameplates, Toyota aims to capture the hearts of sports car enthusiasts and bolster its market presence. This strategic move not only pays homage to its storied past but also positions Toyota as a forward-thinking player in the evolving automotive landscape.
