About a year ago, Toyota subtly hinted at the return of the Celica and MR2 in an episode of its GRIP anime series. The sports cars appeared on a whiteboard labeled Celica Mk8 and MR2 Mk4, clearly referring to next-generation models. Also on the list was the GR GT3, a car we’ll finally see unveiled in production form on December 4.
The anime series has now returned with a new episode, and sure enough, there’s another tease suggesting Toyota will expand its Gazoo Racing lineup. At the very end of the nearly 10-minute video, another list appears: GR Supra, GR86, GR Corolla, and GR [blank]. The clip ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the fourth model’s name unrevealed and sparking plenty of speculation.
It’s unlikely to be the GR Yaris, as it would be too late to launch the hot hatch in the United States. The current generation has been around since 2020 and received a facelift last year, suggesting it’s nearing the end of its life cycle.
Normally, we’d rule out the Celica and MR2 since no prototypes of either have been spotted testing. However, given Toyota’s previous allusion to both cars in that earlier GRIP episode, we can’t be completely sure. After all, dealers in the U.S. have allegedly seen the reborn Celica behind closed doors, and test mules have already hit the road.
Photo by: Toyota
The GR86 and Supra will eventually get next-generation models, but since both are already on the list, Toyota is clearly hinting at something else.
Toyota has previously told our sister site InsideEVs that a production version of the 2023 FT-Se concept will arrive sometime after 2026, so it’s likely too early to begin teasing that dual-motor, all-wheel-drive electric sports car.
So, what could it be? Considering the GR GT3 will debut in just a few weeks, the timing seems perfect to hint at the upcoming supercar. We already know it will feature a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 hybrid powertrain, and there might even be a Lexus version based on the Sport concept.
The previous teaser from November 2024
Photo by: Toyota
But what if it’s not? Toyota could surprise everyone with a GR Sienna or GR Prius; just kidding. More plausibly, Gazoo Racing could apply its performance know-how to an SUV or truck. A GR Land Cruiser or GR Tacoma would certainly be intriguing, but logic points to the supercar or the Celica. After all, the covered vehicle shown briefly earlier in the video has a distinct coupe silhouette.
Whatever it turns out to be, one thing seems increasingly certain: Toyota is preparing to add a fourth GR model for the U.S. market.
