Did Toyota make a turbo Celica?
Yes. Toyota did produce turbocharged Celicas, most famously the GT-Four rally-bred models and the US-market All-Trac variants, with additional turbo versions offered in various markets during the late 1980s and 1990s.
Turbo Celica models through the generations
The following outline covers the main turbocharged Celica variants that Toyota sold or supported, organized by generation and market where relevant.
- ST165 Celica GT-Four (1986–1990): Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with all-wheel drive, developed for World Rally Championship homologation and performance on gravel and tarmac.
- ST185 Celica GT-Four (1990–1994): Evolution of the turbo setup with improved torque delivery, drivetrain refinement, and rally‑inspired handling enhancements.
- ST205 Celica GT-Four (1994–1999): Final GT-Four generation, featuring further turbo upgrades, a more sophisticated AWD system, and modernized chassis dynamics for late‑90s competition and street performance.
- Celica All-Trac (US-market variant): The American-bias name for the GT-Four all-wheel-drive turbo versions sold in the United States during the late 1980s and early 1990s, bringing turbo Celica performance to North America.
- Turbo Celicas in select markets (late 1980s–early 1990s): Market-specific turbo options outside the GT-Four lineage, branded as Celica GT Turbo or under local naming conventions depending on country.
These entries summarize Toyota’s principal turbo-focused Celica offerings. The broader Celica range also included naturally aspirated variants that did not feature turbocharging.
Legacy and enthusiasts today
The turbo Celica era is most closely associated with the GT-Four lineage, which defined Toyota’s rally credibility and performance in its era. The All-Trac variants helped bring turbocharged performance to the US market, while regional turbo editions added variety in other territories. Today, enthusiasts most commonly seek out the ST165, ST185, and ST205 GT-Four models for their historical significance and driving character.
Summary: Toyota did produce turbocharged Celicas. The core GT-Four family—ST165, ST185, and ST205—constituted the main turbo Celica lineup, complemented by the US All-Trac market variant and occasional market-specific turbo editions. These cars remain central to Toyota’s performance and rally heritage.
