Toyota Celica Revival Hinted By Chairman Akio Toyoda: Rebirth

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【Summary】Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda expressed his desire to revive the Celica name, hinting at a potential comeback for the iconic model. However, Toyoda clarified that the decision does not solely rest with him and that he has put in a request for its revival. While this is an encouraging sign, it is not a guarantee as there are people within the company who may refuse the idea.

FutureCar Staff Oct 15, 2023 4:20 PM PT

Toyota Celica Revival Hinted By Chairman Akio Toyoda: Rebirth

In a recent interview, Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda expressed his desire to revive the Celica name. However, he emphasized that the decision does not rest solely with him. The last Toyota Celica was produced in 2006, but it may soon make a triumphant return.

During a livestreamed interview with the Toyota Times YouTube channel, Toyoda was questioned about the possibility of a new Celica. At first, he hesitated, noting that he was now on the executive side of the company. However, he dropped some hints that could be seen as encouraging for Celica enthusiasts.

When asked if he had put in a request to bring the car back, Toyoda confirmed that he had, but he was unsure under what name it would come out. Despite his high position, Toyoda clarified that a request does not guarantee the return of the Celica. He acknowledged that there are people within Toyota who may refuse his request.

Toyoda then referenced the event they were speaking at, Rally Hokkaido, where Toyota invited Juha Kankkunen, a Finnish rally driver who achieved great success with the Toyota Celica. Toyoda hinted at the significance of Kankkunen's involvement, leaving viewers to speculate on his intentions.

With the recent revival of the Supra, there is growing interest in bringing back famous nameplates from Toyota's past. However, we will have to wait to find out exactly what Toyoda and Toyota have in mind for the Celica.