Toyota Celica returns in 2012

Dark, sinister, aggressive and powerful. Four terms that are seldom used when describing a modern-day Toyota, but appears all set to change as the Japanese automotive giant gears up for a new model arrival, and the likelihood of the 'second coming' of a sporty coupe classic.

Due to arrive in Australia during the second half of 2012, the next generation 'Celica' is set to deliver Toyota a sports car for the masses, with the potential to deliver a massive image boost for the automaker.

Several details have already been confirmed by Toyota, including the option of either a short-throw six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with optional steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

The new sports car will be based on a unique front-engine/rear-wheel drive platform that Toyota says will ensure "the best possible power-to-weight ratio". A low centre of gravity, light kerb weight and compact dimensions should also endow the car with above average handling characteristics.

Toyota's FT-86 II Concept -- a preview of the production car that may be badged Celica -- will be on display at the 2011 Australian International Motor Show, and is certain to be a crowd pleaser for numerous reasons, least of which its ahtletic, sharp-edged styling.

On display for the first time in Australia, the FT-86 II Concept is one of Toyota's most aggressive designs to date, and although the production version is likely to be less dramatic in appearance, Toyota says the concept provides "vital clues" to the production car's design.

Spy photos of the born again Toyota Celica snapped earlier this year confirmed that the vehicle's sporty silhouette will remain intact.

While specific power outputs are not yet known, the naturally aspirated models are rumoured to generate around 150kW. A turbocharged version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer engine has not been confirmed, but could be another possibility.

As such, the vehicle is expected to be a rival for vehicles such as the Mazda RX-8 rather than the more powerful Nissan 370Z.

The rear-wheel drive sports car will be unique in that it will be the first vehicle from Toyota to make use of Subaru's four-cylinder boxer, and will incorporate "Toyota's D-4S technology" which stands for direct injection combined with port injection.

"The 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine brings together the technical know-how and enthusiasm for sports cars of both Subaru and Toyota," reads the official press statement.

The concept's rear-wheel drive layout also harks back to Toyota's giddy super sportscar period of the 1990s when vehicles like the twin turbo rear-wheel Supra ruled the roost.

Toyota appears to be very serious about its return to the sports car market, also stating that, "The show car was created as part of Toyota's reborn passion for sports-car driving and the intrinsic fun of motoring".

"The concept makes it clear that Toyota's new compact sports car will have the style, performance and handling demanded by those who regard driving as fun rather than a necessity."

A true driver's car from Toyota? Watch this space.

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