iSpy: Toyota Celica finally gets a sporty alter ego

Toyota has been quiet on specifics, but we assume the car spotted here will get an engine - possibly turbocharged - with at least 270hp.

The 2012 Toyota Celica. Courtesy Lehmann Photo-Syndication

While the standard Celica spy pictures are doing the rounds, here's one of the first images of what's to become the sports version of the Japanese coupe. Although the car is heavily camouflaged, it's obvious the production model will attempt to strike a balance between the original FT-86 concept and the aggressive FT-86 II concept. The company has been quiet on specifics, but the standard version of the rear-wheel-drive car will be powered by a 2.0-litre boxer engine that develops approximately 200hp, so we assume the car spotted here will get an engine - possibly turbocharged - with at least 270hp. It will be paired to a six-speed manual transmission, but a six-speed automatic will be optional. Expected to be unveiled this year, the FT-86 will probably be called Celica and will be joined by the Scion FR-S and a new Subaru.