Toyota's New WRC Rally Car Prototype Is Probably The New Celica
Toyota has begun testing its next-generation World Rally Championship car ahead of the 2027 rule changes. Early images seem to suggest that Toyota will be using a two-door coupe that could be the Celica.
The photos posted to X come fresh from Portugal’s Algarve region and show a prototype built to the upcoming WRC27 regulations undergoing mountain road testing. The unofficial images, taken by a local rally nut, Marcio Pereira, show a two-door coupe silhouette instead of the hatchback GR Yaris it's run since 2022.
Naturally, the speculation is that Toyota’s new WRC prototype is the first preview of a revived Celica. We already know the company is actively working on a new Celica; Toyota confirmed it back in 2024. The Celica is a giant in rally circles, with the GT-Four delivering Toyota both drivers' and manufacturers’ titles in the early 1990s.
From a narrative standpoint, it all sounds perfect.
According to DirtFish, the images and video are legit. This was confirmed to the outlet by Tom Fowler, technical director of Toyota's GAZOO Racing World Rally Team. Fowler would not be drawn on the specific branding of the vehicle, but he did say the prototype has already completed multiple test sessions totaling more than 2,000 kilometers, as engineers work through early feedback and refinements.
In flyby videos, the prototype's powertrain sounds identical to the 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder used by the current GR Yaris WRC machine.
AutoGuide's Take:
The WRC27 regulations introduce a spaceframe chassis concept that gives manufacturers greater flexibility in bodywork. As long as the exterior fits within dimensional limits, manufacturers can apply styling cues from any car in their lineup—opening the door nicely for Toyota to retain a proven drivetrain and chassis from the GR Yaris while adopting a different body shape better suited to future branding.
The prototype seen in Portugal doesn't look like anything Toyota has on the road right now, unless you squint really hard and want to convince yourself it's a C-HR silhouette. A 2027 launch for the new WRC car lines up nicely with the timeline for the long-rumored debut of a road-going Celica.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, went over the wall during the Rolex 24, and wrenched in the intense IndyCar paddock.
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