It was in 2006 that the last Toyota Celica rolled out of the factory. Well, any Toyota factory, as a matter of fact. The storied nameplate has a rather impressive heritage behind it and a lot of its fans have been left with an 18-year-old as its newest model. But what if it comes back? What if someone so high-ranking in Toyota pulls some strings and brings the Celica back into production and sells it to its multitude of fans? If Akio Toyoda had his way, he would!
Can Akio Toyoda bring back the Toyota Celica?
Photo: Toyota
As far as recognizing and furthering the motorsport heritage of Toyota’s models go, no man has done more than Akio Toyoda. Known as Morizo in the motorsports world, it’s been a while since he’s stepped down from being CEO and up to Chairman of the company, but his work continues. In an interview with Toyota Times, he was asked his opinion of the Celica possibly returning.
Bringing models back (or making them even better) is not a surprising part of Toyoda-san’s leadership profile, and he has “confirmed” that he’s already lobbied for the model to return.
Photo: Toyota
As far as a request being made, that’s already been done by Toyoda, but that doesn’t mean that it will be granted, despite his role in the company. Sadly, Toyota believes that “plenty would” oppose his plans of bringing a new Celica back into the market, but we’re sure he says this in jest. He’s already been successful with the Crown’s return, and more relevant to our country, the new Tamaraw’s impending return as well.
Interestingly enough, when asked about the “request” whether it will still (possibly) be named “Celica”, Toyoda said (and as translated), “Well, I have, but I don’t know what name it will come out under.” Even more interesting is that Finnish rally driver Juha Kankkunen who has won multiple rallying titles behind the wheel of a Celica was invited by Toyota to Rally Hokkaido. In more cryptic words, Toyoda said, “Kankkunen (who was invited to the demo run) is Mr. Celica. He was champion four times in the Celica,” said Toyoda, turning to the camera to say, “Now you can all have a think about why I’m using Kankkunen so much. See if you can guess!”
Photo: Toyota
Despite what opposition Toyoda mentioned, we think that there’s a real possibility that the Celica will return. It might not be in the near future although we do hope so, but knowing Morizo, his drive towards “making ever-better” cars remains strong and steadfast. If you’re a company like Toyota, how can you deny such plans and dreams, right?
Being Akio Toyoda aside, the man has a point, as do all the fans who’ve been waiting for the Celica’s return. That’s a strong lineage and heritage right there, ladies and gentlemen of Toyota. Give the man and the car a chance, yes?
