• Toyota is testing a new 2027 WRC prototype in Portugal featuring a two-door coupe body.
  • The new rally car is not based on a production car, but could adopt the Celica nameplate.
  • Technical director Tom Fowler confirmed that the new rally weapon is undergoing testing.

Toyota fans are patiently waiting for the new GR Celica, so the sight of a camouflaged WRC prototype has everyone going crazy. The model, which is expected to replace the GR Yaris Rally1 in the 2027 season, was spotted during development testing in Portugal, with its compact two-door coupe bodystyle fueling the rumors about the return of the iconic nameplate

The first photos and videos of the future GR rally car were captured by rally enthusiast Marcio Pereira, published by motorsport media DirtFish. The photographer claims that the new model sounded just like the GR Yaris Rally2, suggesting it is fitted with the same turbo 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine.

More: Toyota Stepped Away So GR Could Grow Into Something Bigger Than Toyota

The exterior is fully covered in the traditional Gazoo Racing camouflage wrap. However, it’s clear from the proportions it is not based on any existing model from the Toyota lineup. Despite its compact footprint and short wheelbase, it has a three-box silhouette with wide fender extensions.

At the front, we can see hints of horizontally-arranged headlights, a narrow grille, a vented hood and a large intake on the bumper. Other highlights include a roof scoop, pronounced rear shoulders and an aerodynamic tail adorned by a boxy rear wing.

While many hoped this would be our first look at the upcoming GR Celica, the reality is somewhat different. FIA’s new regulations for the 2027 WRC cars don’t require them to be based on production models, meaning they are just shells on a spaceframe chassis. Still, Toyota designers might sneak some Celica cues to the rally car but don’t expect a 1:1 ratio with the roadgoing version.

More: WRC Fans Have Waited Decades For This, And It Might Finally Be Happening

According to FIA, the output of the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine will be capped at around 290 hp, with power being transmitted to all four wheels via a standardized five-speed gearbox. Furthermore, the steering and braking systems will be sourced from the existing Rally2 category.

On the other hand, the production Celica is expected to use Toyota’s new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, combined with an evolution of the GR-Four AWD system. Reports from Japan suggest it could have a mid-engined layout, but that has yet to be confirmed by Toyota.

Toyota Gazoo Racing technical director Tom Fowler didn’t give away the name of the new rally machine but confirmed it is currently under development and has already completed over 2,000 km (1,243 miles) of testing. Speaking to DirtFish, Fowler said:

“At this point in time we are already running our prototype test car. The design team are concentrating on all of the feedback that’s coming from that car and working around issues and improvements. The original target was to start running the car in 2026. We met that target. The car has been running for a few tests already and it’s definitely done more than 2,000 kilometers. I can’t tell you the exact figure.”

More: The GR Yarolla Is A 90s Hatchback With The Heart Of A GR Yaris

We expect Toyota to announce more information about its 2027 WRC contestant as development continues over the coming months.

Toyota Rally Cars In WRC

The GR Yaris Rally1 has been competing in the WRC since 2022, winning four manufacturer’s and three driver’s championships with 38 wins in 55 races so far. The model replaced the previous generation Yaris WRC (2017-2021) that won another two manufacturer’s and three driver’s championships with 26 wins in 58 races.

More: New GR Yaris Has “Seb” And “Morizo” Modes, And Both Are Built To Misbehave

Long before the Yaris era, Toyota entered the WRC with the Celica GT-Four in the ST165, ST185, and ST205 generations between 1989 and 1996, followed by the Corolla hatchback between 1997 and 1999. Throughout the ’90s, the company won three manufacturers’ and four driver’s championships

Overall, the Toyota has gathered nine manufacturers’ and ten drivers’ titles, making it one of the most decorated manufacturers in WRC history and the most successful Japanese brand.

Toyota’s Next Rally Weapon Is A Coupe, But Is It Really A Celica?
2026 Toyota GR Yaris Rally1

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