After years of making only rather boring family cars, Toyota has finally injected some excitement back into its model line with the new Supra. Back in the day, Toyota had another sporty car called the Celica. Something recently happened that has Toyota Celica fans very excited.
Toyota has filed a trademark application in the United States for the Celica name. The trademark was dated January 15. While there is some hope and excitement that the trademark means the Celica name will return, that might not be the case.
The Legacy of the Toyota Celica
The Toyota Celica has a storied history that dates back to its debut in December 1970 in Japan, with its introduction to the US market following in 1971. Over the years, the Celica became synonymous with sporty performance and stylish design. It was a car that appealed to driving enthusiasts and those who wanted a bit more flair in their daily commute. The Celica was available in various configurations, including coupes, liftbacks, and convertibles, making it a versatile choice for many buyers.
One of the most iconic versions of the Celica was the Celica GT-Four, a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive variant that gained fame in the world of rally racing. The GT-Four’s success on the rally stage helped cement the Celica’s reputation as a performance-oriented vehicle. Unfortunately, the Celica was discontinued in the United States after the 2005 model year, leaving a void in Toyota’s lineup for a sporty, affordable car.
Speculations and Possibilities
With the recent trademark application, speculation is rife about what Toyota’s plans might be for the Celica name. There are several possibilities to consider. One possibility is that Toyota is simply protecting its iconic assets. Trademarks are valuable, and companies often renew them to prevent others from using their well-known names. This could mean that Toyota has no immediate plans to bring back the Celica but wants to keep the option open for the future.
Another exciting possibility is that Toyota might be planning to reintroduce the Celica as a new model. Given the success of the new Supra, it wouldn’t be surprising if Toyota decided to revive another beloved nameplate. The automotive market has seen a resurgence of interest in retro-inspired models, and a modern Celica could tap into that trend. A new Celica could potentially share a platform with the Toyota 86, another sporty car in Toyota’s lineup, or even be a completely new design.
There’s also the chance that the next generation Toyota 86 could be called the Celica. The Toyota 86, known as the Subaru BRZ in its Subaru-branded form, has been well-received by enthusiasts for its balanced handling and engaging driving experience. Rebranding the 86 as the Celica could be a way for Toyota to leverage the nostalgia and recognition associated with the Celica name while continuing to offer a modern, sporty coupe.
The automotive industry is constantly evolving, and manufacturers are always looking for ways to capture the attention of consumers. Reviving a classic name like the Celica could be a strategic move for Toyota, especially as they continue to expand their lineup of exciting and performance-oriented vehicles.
In conclusion, while the trademark application for the Celica name has sparked hope and excitement among fans, it remains to be seen what Toyota’s true intentions are. Whether it’s a move to protect their intellectual property or a hint at a future model, the possibility of the Celica’s return is an intriguing prospect. We would love to see the Celica return, and only time will tell if that happens. For now, enthusiasts will have to wait and see what Toyota has in store for this beloved nameplate.
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