The new Toyota Celica is back after a 20-year gap, built on the same platform as the GR Corolla

Toyota brought back the Celica nameplate in 2024 for the first time since 2006. The new version is a compact sports car that shares its underbody and engine with the GR Corolla, meaning it has a turbocharged three-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive as standard. It sits between the regular Corolla and the higher-performance GR Corolla in Toyota's lineup.

The car is designed to appeal to drivers who want a sporty, fun-to-drive daily car without the extreme track focus of the GR Corolla. It comes in one main trim level with a starting price in the mid-$30,000 range, though exact pricing and availability can vary by region and dealer.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 Celica uses a turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with all-wheel drive, producing around 300 horsepower.
  • Toyota designed the new Celica to be more accessible than the GR Corolla while still offering genuine performance and handling.
  • The car comes standard with modern safety features, an eight-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Fuel economy sits around 25 to 28 miles per gallon combined, depending on driving conditions and whether you use the manual or automatic transmission.
  • The Celica is available in limited quantities, so availability at dealerships varies by location and may require ordering.

Engine, transmission, and performance specs

The Celica's engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder that produces approximately 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This is the same powerplant found in the GR Corolla, tuned to deliver responsive acceleration and a distinctive engine note that appeals to enthusiasts.

You can choose between a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. The manual is lighter and more direct, while the automatic offers convenience and smoother shifts. Both versions come with all-wheel drive, which helps put the power to the ground and improves handling in wet conditions.

The Celica sits lower and wider than a standard Corolla, with a stiffer suspension tuned for cornering. Toyota equipped it with performance-oriented brakes and a limited-slip differential to enhance handling balance. Real-world acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour takes roughly 6 to 6.5 seconds depending on transmission choice.

Interior features and technology

Inside, the Celica keeps things focused on the driver. The cabin uses a mix of hard plastics and some soft-touch materials, with sport-styled seats that hold you in place during spirited driving. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather, and the overall layout prioritizes function over luxury.

The infotainment system centers on an eight-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, letting you mirror your phone's navigation and music apps. There is no built-in navigation system, so you will rely on your phone for turn-by-turn directions. Climate control is automatic, and the car includes a six-speaker audio system as standard.

Storage is modest—the trunk holds about 11 cubic feet, which is typical for a compact sports car. The back seat is small and best suited for occasional passengers or extra cargo space rather than regular seating.

Safety features and ratings

The Celica comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a suite of driver-information technologies that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping information, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure alert. These systems are designed to reduce the risk of collision and help you stay centered in your lane on highways.

The car has not yet received a full crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), since it is a brand-new model. However, it shares the same basic structure and safety systems as the GR Corolla, which performed well in testing.

Fuel economy and running costs

The Celica achieves approximately 25 to 28 miles per gallon combined, with the manual transmission slightly more efficient than the automatic in real-world driving. Highway mileage runs around 30 to 32 mpg, while city driving typically yields 22 to 24 mpg. These figures assume regular driving; aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving will lower them.

The turbocharged engine requires premium gasoline (91 octane or higher), which costs more than regular fuel at most pumps. Insurance costs are moderate for a sports car, though they vary by your age, driving history, and location. Maintenance follows Toyota's standard schedule, with oil changes every 10,000 miles and no unusual service intervals.

How the Celica compares to similar cars

The Celica sits in a small but growing segment of affordable sports cars. The Hyundai Veloster N is a direct competitor—it also offers turbocharged power, all-wheel drive, and a manual transmission option at a similar price. The Veloster N is slightly more powerful and has a more aggressive design, but the Celica is lighter and more fuel-efficient.

The Subaru BRZ is another alternative, though it uses a naturally aspirated engine and rear-wheel drive instead of turbocharged all-wheel drive. The BRZ is lighter and handles with a different character, but it produces less horsepower and costs roughly the same. The GR Corolla itself is more extreme—stiffer, louder, and more track-focused—making it a step up if you want maximum performance.

Compared to mainstream compact cars, the Celica costs more but delivers genuine driving engagement and real performance. If you want a Corolla that is fun to drive, the Celica is the answer. If you want a daily commuter that happens to be a car, a standard Corolla or Civic is more practical.

Availability and ordering

The Celica is produced in limited numbers, which means it is not sitting on every Toyota dealer lot. Availability varies significantly by region—some areas receive more inventory than others based on demand forecasts. If you want one, contact your local Toyota dealer to ask about current stock or place an order.

Lead times for ordered vehicles typically range from a few weeks to several months, depending on production capacity and current demand. Pricing may vary slightly by dealer, though Toyota sets a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) that most dealers honor. Some dealers may charge additional markups if demand is high in your area, so it is worth calling multiple dealers to compare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the new Celica a hybrid?

No. The Celica uses a turbocharged gasoline engine only. Toyota does not offer a hybrid version of the Celica, though the standard Corolla and other models in the lineup do have hybrid options.

Can I get the Celica with rear-wheel drive?

No. All-wheel drive is standard and the only option available. Toyota designed the Celica around all-wheel drive to improve traction and handling, especially in wet conditions.

Does the Celica come with a warranty?

Yes. Toyota includes a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty on all new vehicles, including the Celica. Some dealers may offer extended warranty options for an additional cost.

What is the difference between the Celica and the GR Corolla?

The GR Corolla is more aggressive—it has a stiffer suspension, louder exhaust, and a more track-focused interior. The Celica is tuned for daily driving comfort while still offering genuine performance. The GR Corolla costs more and is aimed at drivers who prioritize speed and handling above all else.

How much trunk space does the Celica have?

The trunk holds approximately 11 cubic feet of cargo space. This is typical for a compact sports car and enough for groceries, luggage, or gym gear, but not ideal for large items or road trips with multiple passengers.