The 2027 Toyota GR Celica is taking shape as Gazoo Racing continues testing a rally prototype in Spain ahead of the 2027 WRC season. The heavily modified and widened car provides one of the clearest looks yet at Toyota GR’s upcoming Celica, although the competition prototype differs significantly from the expected production model.
Toyota GR Celica Prototype Tests in Spain
This is not the first time the Celica prototype has been spotted testing. Earlier videos showed the car running on a rally stage in Spain, while the latest footage captures it tearing across tarmac without dust clouds obscuring the view.
The driver also stopped during the test, allowing the camera to get a closer look at the prototype.
What the WRC Prototype Reveals
Understanding the prototype requires some context about WRC regulations. Rally cars must use common tubular spaceframe chassis and be equipped with turbocharged 1.6-liter engines.
The prototype’s exhaust note appears to carry the sound of a three-cylinder engine. The car does not use the rumored 2.0-liter G20E engine reportedly destined for the production GR Celica with more than 400 horsepower. Instead, the rally prototype uses the G16 engine found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
As 2027 approaches, Toyota could share additional details about the new Celica. The car is expected to be based on the brand’s TNGA platform and could use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine along with the GR-Four AWD system.
Toyota GR Celica Design Details
The videos unearthed by Carscoops offer a closer look at the prototype’s exterior. Up front, the headlights resemble those used on the European-spec Corolla sedan.
The hood features what appears to be a forward-facing scoop along with a pair of vents. The front bumper has a very large central opening, side brake ducting and extremely wide fenders. Aside from the headlights and hood, much of the front end appears specific to the prototype.
Prominent wheel arches extend along the sides to accommodate the long-travel suspension. The rear fenders are similarly wide, appearing at least as aggressive as those at the front.
The GR Celica prototype also has a relatively tall roofline that may be similar to the GR Yaris. Near the D-pillar, an aerodynamic vent appears designed to channel air and reduce drag.
The prototype has two doors, making it a coupe and giving it a layout similar to previous Celica models.
Liftback Shape and Large Rear Spoiler
At the rear, the prototype has a thick rear section and appears to use a liftback design, echoing the Celica’s recognizable shape.
A large rear spoiler rises to approximately the height of the roofline, while the rear itself is relatively flat. The car also features a center-exit exhaust with a single tip, unlike the triple exhaust arrangement on the GR Corolla.
Possible 2027 Debut
More official information about the Toyota GR Celica could arrive in 2027, potentially around the middle of the year. Gazoo Racing has not yet released details about its next rally car.
The prototype nevertheless points toward a possible replacement for the GR Yaris and a new road-going homologation special. While its final production design remains unknown, the prototype provides a general indication of what the GR Celica could become, even though its current exhaust note comes from the WRC-spec engine rather than the expected turbocharged four-cylinder.
