Toyota Celica 2026: Everything Australians Need to Know
The Toyota Celica is coming back, and for Australian car enthusiasts, that is a very big deal.
After more than two decades off the market, Toyota's iconic sports coupe is making a return. With trademark filings, executive confirmations, and leaked engine specs all pointing to a 2026 launch, this is not just rumour anymore. Here is everything we know so far.
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February 19, 2026
Is the Toyota Celica Actually Coming Back in 2026?
Yes, and this is about as confirmed as something gets without an official press release.
In November 2024, Toyota's Chief Technology Officer Hiroki Nakajima told a crowd at the Japanese round of the World Rally Championship: "We're doing the Celica." Shortly after, Toyota trademarked the name "GR Celica" in Australia, the United States, and Brazil, which makes little sense unless a production car is genuinely in the pipeline.
Toyota dealer sources in North America have also reportedly been shown a prototype behind closed doors, and multiple credible Japanese automotive outlets have confirmed the car is deep in development under the Gazoo Racing (GR) performance division.
The current expectation is a global unveil sometime in 2026.
Will It Be Called the GR Celica?
Almost certainly. The "GR Celica" trademark filed in Australia strongly suggests the car will sit within Toyota's Gazoo Racing performance lineup alongside the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, GR86, and GR Supra.
GR badging is not just cosmetic. It signals a proper performance build, not a rebadged economy coupe. Think track-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, and serious power figures as standard.
Toyota Celica 2026 Specs: Engine, Power and AWD
The powertrain rumours are where things get very exciting.
Reports out of Japan indicate the new Celica will be powered by a brand-new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing close to 300kW, a figure that would put it well above the GR Corolla (221kW) and within striking distance of the GR Supra (285kW). Some reports suggest the engine will be paired with an electric motor in a hybrid configuration, with all-wheel drive to manage the power output.
If those numbers check out, this would be the most powerful production Celica ever made, a significant step up from the 141kW GT-Four that enthusiasts still talk about today.
Expected specs (rumoured):
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol, likely hybrid-assisted
- Power output: 220 to 294kW
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
- Body style: 2-door sports coupe
- GR badge: Yes, expected
Toyota Celica 2026 Price in Australia
No official pricing has been confirmed for Australia, but based on Toyota's existing GR lineup and Japanese market estimates, here is where it is expected to land.
Japanese market estimates place the Celica at approximately 6.5 million yen, which converts to roughly $66,000 to $75,000 AUD once you account for taxes, compliance, and Australian market adjustments. That would position it above the GR Corolla and below the GR Supra.
For context, the last Celica sold in Australia (the 2006 model) started at around $38,000. In today's money, adjusted for inflation and the shift to a full GR performance model, a $70,000 plus price point makes sense.
Toyota Celica 2026 Release Date: When Can Australians Buy One?
The expected global launch window is 2026, with Australian availability to follow. Toyota Australia has not made an official announcement, but given that the GR Celica trademark was filed locally, Australia is almost certainly on the launch market list.
Realistically, if the car debuts at a major motor show in late 2026, Australian deliveries would likely begin in early to mid 2027 depending on production allocation. GR models historically receive limited initial allocations in Australia. The GR Yaris and GR Corolla both had waitlists, so serious buyers may want to register their interest with dealers early.
How Does the 2026 Celica Compare to the GR86 and GR Corolla?
The Celica is expected to slot between the GR86 and GR Supra, but with a different character to both.
Toyota GR86
The GR86 (from around $48,000) is a lightweight, naturally aspirated RWD.
The Celica is expected to be heavier, more powerful, and AWD, making it the more usable everyday performance car.
Toyota GR Corolla
The GR Corolla (from around $72,000) is a hot hatch with four doors and 4WD.
The Celica offers the same GR performance DNA in a sleeker two-door coupe body, making it the more focused, more stylish option.
Should You Sell Your Current Car Before the Celica Arrives?
If you are planning to buy a 2026 Toyota Celica, now is a smart time to think about what you will do with your current vehicle.
GR models in Australia tend to sell out fast. The GR Yaris had waiting lists stretching months. If you want to be ready to move when deposits open, having your current car sold and the cash in hand puts you in a much stronger position than scrambling to sell after you have already committed to a new car.
At Sell Any Car Fast, we give you an instant offer for your current car. No negotiating, no private sale hassle, no waiting. If you are eyeing the Celica and you're n QLD, it is worth knowing what your current car is worth right now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Toyota Celica confirmed for 2026?
Toyota has not issued an official press release, but the evidence is strong. The CTO publicly said "We're doing the Celica" at a live event, the GR Celica name has been trademarked in Australia, and prototypes have reportedly been shown to dealers. A 2026 launch is widely expected.
Will the Toyota Celica 2026 be available in Australia?
Yes, most likely. Toyota filed a GR Celica trademark in Australia, which strongly suggests it will be sold here. Exact timing and pricing have not been officially confirmed.
How much will the Toyota Celica 2026 cost in Australia?
Based on Japanese market estimates and Toyota's existing GR lineup, expect a starting price of around $66,000 to $75,000 AUD. Official Australian pricing has not been announced.
What engine will the 2026 Toyota Celica have?
Leaked reports point to a new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing close to 300kW, likely paired with a hybrid electric motor and all-wheel drive.
What happened to the original Toyota Celica?
The Toyota Celica was in continuous production from 1970 to 2006. The final generation was a 2-door coupe sold in Australia with a 1.8-litre engine. It was discontinued as part of a broader shift away from affordable sports coupes in the mid-2000s.
When can I put a deposit down on a Toyota Celica 2026 in Australia?
Toyota Australia has not opened order books yet. Your best move is to register your interest directly with your local Toyota dealer now, as GR models have historically had limited allocations and long waitlists in Australia.
Is the 2026 Celica a hybrid?
Reports suggest yes. A turbocharged petrol engine paired with an electric motor, similar to the GR Yaris approach. This fits with Toyota's broader carbon-neutral strategy while keeping the performance figures high.
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