By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse
The Japanese carmaker has finally confirmed the return of the iconic Celica sports car.
It follows years of speculation into its relaunch 18 years after production ended.
The Celica ran from 1970 until 2006 and was available in different versions, including as a liftback coupe and convertible. There were seven generations of the Celica and these used various four-cylinder engines.
It was a car loved for its style, handling and value and proved a big success for Toyota, selling over 4.1 units worldwide.
The car also made its mark in motor sport, including contesting and winning countless World Rally Championship titles.
If you’re in the market for a fast Toyota, take a look at the GT-Four producing 197bhp (and sold between 1986 and 1999) or the later 1.8 litre VVT-i. In 1986, an appealing six-cylinder Supra model was also spun-off from the Celica.
No timescale is being given for the return of the new Celica but rumours are circulating of it carrying a new turbocharged 2 litre engine.
Toyota are committed to producing cleaner combustion engines alongside electric and hybrid options, but it is unclear if the eighth-generation Celica will be in EV form.
Interestingly, Toyota are also hinting at a new generation of other models, including the Supra and MR2. Watch this space!