New 2028 Toyota Celica Could Be the Honda Prelude Alternative We Need

I have to say, the rumors of a new generation Toyota Celica coming are pretty puzzling. Since it would seem a new Celica would compete directly against the current Toyota GR86. But it seems Toyota will add the new coupe very soon no matter what.

The new Celica is now rumored to be based on the same platform as the next-generation Toyota Corolla. Which we will see at the Los Angeles Auto show in November. It is also rumored to use a new 2.0 Liter Hybrid engine. While the Corolla will use the new 1.5 Liter. And of course, since this is basically a front wheel drive platform, AWD will be standard on the more powerful Celica. I guess we are not talking about a mid-engine layout anymore. Which is something we could still see in a new Toyota MR-2. So far, it seems the next Celica will compete against the new Honda Prelude. Although with AWD and more power.

I test drove the Prelude for a week a while ago, and it actually reminded me of what a new Celica should be. A comfortable yet sporty coupe with a modern clean design. The illustrations above show what such a new Celica could look like. With a biot of a retro feel.

At over $42,000, there is no doubt the new Prelude is overpriced. Especially for what you get. Or rather, what you DON’T get. Like a sunroof, or power seats. Toyota could easily do better.

I really think there would be a market for a really nice looking, practical 2 door Toyota Hybrid. But, unlike the Prelude, it should not start at over $42,000. Although the GR86 starts at just over $32,000 (A steal compared to the Prelude).

I guess more power, Hybrid and AWD will push the Celica price much higher no matter what.

It probably won’t be cheap…