Toyota is Bringing Back Legends: Celica, MR2, and a New Lexus Supercar!

Feb 27,2025

Toyota is gearing up to bring back three legendary sports cars, including two iconic nameplates—Celica and MR2—alongside a brand-new Lexus supercar. Following the successful revival of the Supra and 86, Toyota and its performance division, Gazoo Racing, are pushing forward with their vision of a stronger sports car lineup.

New Toyota MR2 – A Mid-Engine Comeback?

Expected to pack a 400+ horsepower engine
Likely to feature a mid-engine layout with AWD

Toyota’s move to resurrect the Celica and MR2 is part of its goal to restore its classic “three brothers” lineup. These new models will join the GR Yaris and the upcoming next-generation Supra, reinforcing Toyota’s commitment to high-performance cars.

Both the Celica and MR2 are set to be powered by a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, known internally as the G20E. Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, this engine is rumored to generate over 400hp and 500Nm of torque for road cars, while race-spec versions could exceed 600hp.

Could the Toyota M Concept Hint at the New MR2?

Toyota showcased the M Concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon, featuring the G20E engine in a heavily modified GR Yaris. Interestingly, the engine was positioned behind the rear seats, indicating a mid-engine configuration with all-wheel drive.

While Toyota insists that the M Concept is purely a test platform, industry experts believe that such a complex drivetrain suggests a real production model could be on the horizon. Gazoo Racing president Tomoya Takahashi hinted that they are actively looking for ways to introduce the setup into production. If the MR2 follows Toyota’s typical development cycle, we could see a production model hit the roads around 2028.

New Toyota Celica – Returning to Its Rally Roots?

Expected to launch before the MR2
Could feature four-wheel drive
Might revive the GT-Four badge

The Celica is anticipated to debut ahead of the MR2, using the same G20E turbocharged engine, but with a front-engine, AWD layout. According to Japanese publication Best Car, Toyota may bring back the GT-Four name, which was previously used for the brand’s World Rally Championship (WRC)-homologated Celicas in the 1980s and 1990s.

Reports also suggest that the Celica could make a return to WRC competition. With the FIA expanding WRC rules in 2027 to allow a wider range of body styles—including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and custom designs—Toyota may seize the opportunity to bring its legendary rally car back to the global stage.

Lexus LFA Successor – A New Supercar on the Horizon

Inspired by the GR GT3 concept
Road-going version expected before its 2026 GT3 racing debut
Likely powered by a turbocharged V8 with hybrid technology

The long-awaited successor to the Lexus LFA has been in the works for years, with early teasers coming from the GR GT3 concept unveiled in 2022. Prototypes have already been spotted testing at high-profile tracks like Spa-Francorchamps and the Nürburgring.

Toyota is expected to release the road-legal version before the 2026 GT3 racing season, as FIA regulations require that GT3 race cars share their core design with a production model.

Rumors suggest that the new supercar—possibly named Lexus LFR—will feature a twin-turbo V8 engine producing 500-600hp, with a hybrid assist system. Spy shots have captured prototypes moving silently before the combustion engine kicks in, confirming some level of electrification.

Also Read: F1 2025 Car Liveries Unveiled

Final Thoughts

With these exciting revivals, Toyota is set to make a bold statement in the performance car world. Whether it’s the MR2’s potential mid-engine AWD setup, the Celica’s rally-inspired comeback, or the LFA successor’s hybrid power, Toyota fans have a lot to look forward to in the coming years.

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