• Toyota is testing a new 2027 WRC prototype in Portugal.
  • Not a production model, but could revive the Celica name.
  • Technical director Tom Fowler confirmed testing is underway.

Toyota fans are patiently waiting for the new GR Celica, and the sight of a camouflaged WRC prototype has sent speculation into overdrive. The coupe, expected to replace the GR Yaris Rally1 in the 2027 season, was spotted during development testing in Portugal. Its compact two-door shape is already fueling rumors about the return of the nameplate.

The first photos and videos of the future GR rally car were captured by rally enthusiast Marcio Pereira and published by motorsport outlet DirtFish. The photographer claims the new model sounded just like the GR Yaris Rally2, suggesting it is fitted with the same turbo 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine.

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The exterior is fully wrapped in traditional Gazoo Racing camouflage. Even so, the proportions make it clear this is not based on any existing Toyota production model. Despite its compact footprint and short wheelbase, it features a distinct three-box silhouette with wide fender extensions.

At the front, there are hints of horizontally arranged headlights, a narrow grille, a vented hood, and a large intake integrated into the bumper. Other details include a roof scoop, pronounced rear shoulders, and an aerodynamic tail finished with a boxy rear wing.

A New Shape For 2027

While many hoped this might be our first look at the upcoming GR Celica, the reality is more nuanced. FIA regulations for the 2027 WRC cars do not require them to be based on production models. Instead, they are effectively body shells mounted on a spaceframe chassis. Toyota’s designers could incorporate subtle Celica-inspired cues, but a one-to-one visual match with the roadgoing version seems unlikely.

More: WRC Fans Have Waited Decades For This, And It Might Finally Be Happening

According to the FIA, output from the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine will be capped at around 290 hp, with drive sent to all four wheels through a standardized five-speed gearbox. The steering and braking hardware will also be lifted straight from the existing Rally2 parts bin, keeping costs and complexity in check.

What About A Road-Going Celica?

The roadgoing Celica, however, is expected to take a different route. It should use Toyota’s new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an evolved GR-Four AWD system. Reports out of Japan have even floated the idea of a mid-engined layout, though Toyota has yet to confirm anything of the sort.

Toyota Gazoo Racing technical director Tom Fowler stopped short of revealing the rally car’s name but confirmed that development is well underway, with more than 2,000 km (1,243 miles) of testing already completed. Speaking to DirtFish, Fowler said:

“At this point in time we are already running our prototype test car. The design team are concentrating on all of the feedback that’s coming from that car and working around issues and improvements. The original target was to start running the car in 2026. We met that target. The car has been running for a few tests already and it’s definitely done more than 2,000 kilometers. I can’t tell you the exact figure.”

More: The GR Yarolla Is A 90s Hatchback With The Heart Of A GR Yaris

We expect Toyota to share additional details about its 2027 WRC contender as development progresses in the coming months.

Toyota Rally Cars In WRC

The GR Yaris Rally 1 has competed in the WRC since 2022, securing four manufacturers’ and three drivers’ championships, along with 38 wins in 55 races so far. It replaced the previous-generation Yaris WRC (2017-2021), which claimed two manufacturers’ and three drivers’ championships with 26 wins in 58 races.

More: New GR Yaris Has “Seb” And “Morizo” Modes, And Both Are Built To Misbehave

Long before the Yaris era, Toyota entered the WRC with the Celica GT-Four in ST165, ST185, and ST205 form between 1989 and 1996, followed by the Corolla hatchback between 1997 and 1999. Throughout the 1990s, the company won three manufacturers’ and four drivers’ championships.

In total, Toyota has collected nine manufacturers’ and ten drivers’ titles, making it one of the most decorated marques in WRC history and the most successful Japanese brand in the championship.

Toyota Fans Spot New Coupe Rally Car And See Celica All Over It
2026 Toyota GR Yaris Rally1