A new spy video shows a mysterious Toyota prototype lapping Fuji Speedway, fueling rumors of a mid-engine sports car making a return under the Celica name.
Prototype Reveals Key Design Features
The brief clip posted on social media reveals a two-door coupe with sleek, downturned headlights and a prominent hood vent. Its taillights match Toyota’s current styling trends, suggesting the prototype is near production form. The exhaust note is strong and deep, while the shift pattern hints at a possible manual gearbox.
Compared to earlier rally-stage test mules, this prototype looks more polished and closer to a production-ready vehicle. Although the exact engine placement isn’t clear from the video, the package points to a mid-engine layout — a significant setup for Toyota’s next sports car.
Expected Performance and Powertrain Details
According to reports, the car will use Toyota’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with all-wheel drive. Output for the standard road model is expected to reach around 400 horsepower. There could also be a hotter version pushing up to 600 hp, thanks to a larger turbo and possible mild hybrid assistance.
Intriguingly, Toyota might launch this as a Gazoo Racing (GR) model under a standalone performance brand instead of a traditional Toyota badge.
Celica or MR2 Name? Future Rally Plans
The prototype adds to speculative excitement over reviving the Celica nameplate, though some sources suggest it could use the MR2 badge instead. Either way, the mid-engine layout aligns with both models’ heritage.
In addition to the road car, a World Rally Championship (WRC) version is reportedly in development. The WRC car might debut as early as 2027, potentially arriving before the production sports coupe hits showrooms.
What’s Next for the Toyota Sports Car?
While Toyota hasn’t confirmed details yet, this testing video offers a clearer look at the company’s plans for a serious sports car return. The combination of a mid-engine setup, manual transmission, and turbocharged AWD powertrain could make this an exciting new model for enthusiasts.
More details are likely to emerge as testing continues and Toyota prepares for a possible launch in the coming years.
Source: motor1.com