Toyota hints at the return of iconic sports cars like the Celica, MR2, Supra, and GR86, sparking excitement among performance enthusiasts.
Toyota is hinting at an exciting new era for its sports car lineup, signaling a shift toward more exhilarating vehicles. Known for its rugged trucks, such as the recently refreshed Tacoma, Land Cruiser, and upcoming 4Runner, Toyota now seems focused on fun, high-performance options. The anticipation for a sportier lineup has only intensified, especially with whispers of potential revivals for legendary models like the MR2, Celica, and new iterations of the GR86 and Supra.
The buzz grew when Toyota’s GRIP anime series on YouTube subtly teased these upcoming sports cars, further fueling speculation. If these hints are more than mere fan service, Toyota could be preparing to deliver on a thrilling promise. For context, the Supra could enter its sixth generation (Mk6), following the current fifth-gen model. Meanwhile, a possible Celica comeback would represent the eighth generation (Mk8), long overdue since its discontinuation in the early 2000s. The MR2, which last graced the roads in its third generation, could also see a modern revival, potentially as an electric sports car.
Rumors suggest that the MR2’s return might embrace electrification, positioning it as an EV sports car. Meanwhile, the next GR86 may depart from its Subaru BRZ partnership, allowing Toyota to design it independently. This move could pave the way for exciting engine swaps, like replacing the flat-four engine with the GR Corolla’s turbocharged three-cylinder, as previewed in the GR86 Rally Legacy concept heading to SEMA.
Another intriguing prospect is a new generation of the GR Supra. Given the long gap between the fourth and fifth generations, a sixth-gen Supra within the next few years would solidify the model’s place in the Toyota lineup. However, questions remain about whether BMW will continue co-developing the Supra alongside the Z4 or if Toyota will need a new partner—or powertrain—for the next iteration.
While these developments are speculative, the hints from Toyota’s anime series have stirred hopes among enthusiasts. Even if some elements were included just for visual appeal, the idea of new sports coupes and high-performance models keeps excitement high. If Toyota brings these concepts to life, it could become one of the most performance-oriented mainstream brands, ensuring affordable and thrilling sports cars continue to thrive.
