There have been rumors that Toyota is working on a replacement for the discontinued Celica, but now there are more rumors that the next-gen Celica could be built by Subaru.
According to Japanese magazine Best Car Toyota is going to release two versions of the Celica that will borrow parts from Subaru, by 2011. The base GT version is going to be powered by a 2.0L Subaru 4-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower. The top of the line GT-Four version is going to be powered by the same 300 horsepower engine in the Japanese spec Impreza STI.
The next-generation Celica could also be offered in two-door and three-door configurations. A hybrid is also rumored.
Full Story: Motor Trend
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Comments (9)
Sounds good, as long as it looks better and performs better than the previous model. But really, what everyone wants is the next Supra.
Posted by gm0n3y | February 4, 2008 2:35 PM
Posted on February 4, 2008 14:35
Now Subaru can finally build a coupe and not actually have to put their name on it... Maybe Toyota could lend Subaru some of their VVTi tech and help the EJ series engines get more than low 20's in the mpg area. I mean 300 hp is great, but it's sad when a 2.5L gets worse gas mileage than a 6.0L V8. All they really need to do is push it up to around 24-25 and that would be acceptable to me.
Even the high output 2.0L Clio gets around 25-27 mpg with about 200hp.
Not withstanding the fact if you drive around with your foot on the floor you are going to get crap for gas mileage, I drive a fair amount of highway (60-70 mph). It'd be nice to NOT have the turbo spinning (even if I'm turning 3000+ rpm).
So much technology, so little implementation.
Posted by Brian | February 4, 2008 4:20 PM
Posted on February 4, 2008 16:20
this is going to eat away at the evo and wrx sti market if its awd or rwd.
Posted by 09 | February 4, 2008 5:52 PM
Posted on February 4, 2008 17:52
" 09:
this is going to eat away at the evo and wrx sti market if its awd or rwd.
I don't think so, it will drive prices down and innovation up. Look at the (sales leaders, I admit) family car segment, crowded with Accord/Camry/Altima/Malibu/etc.
Now with:
Celica
Lancer Ralliart
WRX
Evo
STi
I'm sure there are more AWD turbo cars in the works, so things will just improve even more.
Posted by Noya | February 4, 2008 6:12 PM
Posted on February 4, 2008 18:12
Sounds like a bad idea to me. Haven't we heard this story before? Buy an Oldsmobile and get a Chevy engine. If I buy a Toyota I want Toyota to build it. Is Toyota ready to put their superb reputation at stake? This is just simply a bad decision. It's a great idea to bring back the Celica, but not when it's made by another automaker.
Posted by JC | February 4, 2008 6:32 PM
Posted on February 4, 2008 18:32
To JC,
Subaru actually makes some pretty reliable cars. Sure the Legacy is boring looking and the STi's are niche vehicles but Subaru has very good brand loyalty. Building cars for Toyota will ensure Subaru has enough capacity to survive. And won't it be sweet to have Toyota's backing on Subaru's awsome AWD drivetrain. I say thats win-win-win for Toyota, Subaru, and customers.
Posted by CL | February 4, 2008 7:03 PM
Posted on February 4, 2008 19:03
Toyota have an ownership stake in Subaru, makes perfect sense for them to use Subaru's already excellent chassis and engines rather than go through the expense of developing something from the ground up. Can't wait.
Posted by brad | February 5, 2008 1:04 AM
Posted on February 5, 2008 01:04
It looks really promising...
Posted by Sphere | February 5, 2008 2:53 AM
Posted on February 5, 2008 02:53
I like the idea. A rally coupe would be a fun addition to the mix. The question is the execution. They have to:
1. keep the weight down, say less than 3200lb.
2. get the mileage on par with V8's, say 18/27 mpg.
3. keep the price around 30K. A 40K Celica will not be competitive.
If they plan on 40K they might as well call it the Supra and find another 100hp, IMO.
Posted by Kell | February 5, 2008 9:45 AM
Posted on February 5, 2008 09:45