Toyota Celica

Overview

Our reviewers confirm the Toyota Celica 1.8 coupe carries the Toyota badge of credibility. The Celica 1.8 is endorsed with a 100 per cent recommendation at this site and its hallmarks appear to include reliability, performance and pleasure. Much of this is down to Toyotas record for engineering excellence as well as the fact it is an attractive fun vehicle to drive.

Specification

Seventh generation 2003 Toyota Celica 1.8 VVT-i T Sport
Toyota Celica car insurance groups start at group 13 and rise to group 15

• Engine - 1796cc

• Power - 140bhp

• Top Speed - 140mph

• Acceleration - 0-60mph - 7.2s

• Economy - 33.6mpg

Early History

The first generation Toyota Celica was released in 1971 and since then has experienced seven different generations. The first model was based on the EX-1 car of the future prototype, its design quite radical at the time and hugely influential in the development of the compact sport category.

It was fitted with a carbureted four-cylinder engine - 1.6 litres. Available only in ST form and as a two-door sport-coupe the Celica was an image driven car which helped broaden the appeal of the sport sector.

The Modern Celica

1985

The fourth generation ST165 established the Toyota in world rallying terms with the GT4 - A GT-version competed in Group A Rally racing during the eighties and nineties. The GT-Four also becomes a collectors model when it was produced for the public in a limited edition.

1990

Fifth generation Celica ST185 had unusual looks but proved popular. The fifth generation totally redesigned the styling with a much more aggressive rounded and sculpted body. Arriving in both lift-back and sports coupe the 5th generation had a lower front end a higher rear end giving the Celica a modern sporty look. Released in 5 trims the All-Trac (or GT-4 in Europe) with 200HP and all wheel drive (AWD) was by far the most powerful.

1994

The sixth generation ST205 was overblown for some but a delight for fans. With plush interior spec the new model had very aerodynamic curves, unique bug-eyes and an even more aggressive look than the 5th generation

2003

Saw the start of the seventh generation - major redevelopments again with 140bhp engine available on Celica, Celica Style and Celica Premium. Celica Style added 17-inch alloy wheels and rear spoiler, sports pedals and enhanced audio package to the standard Celica. Celica Premium came with climate control, full leather seats and electric sunroof

Celica range now consisted of four models:

• Celica

• Celica Premium

• Celica Style

• Celica T Sport.

Award

A panel of world judges considered the 1.8 VVTL-i engine from the Celica T Sport as the best available in the 1.4 to 1.8-litre powertrains, including diesel. It received Engine of the Year title in 2002 from the Engine Technology International magazine

Reviews

Times Online said:

The seventh generation model Celica embodies the core values of Toyota engineering - performance without compromise. Intelligent engineering replaces the muscle car approach of the past to create a sports coupe which is light and nimble to drive yet still economical to own.

Yahoo Cars said:

The latest seventh generation Celica is extremely light weight and razor sharp.

Parkers Guide says of the seventh generation model:

Toyotas reputation is based upon excellent reliability so you shouldnt have much trouble from a Celica. Owners report only the smallest of problems.

Features

3 dr coupe 1.8 petrol VVTi, 190 - standard equipment includes:

• Twin front and side airbags

• ABS

• Leather-covered steering wheel

• Electric windows and mirrors

• 16in alloy wheels and remote central locking

Review Centre Reviews

Heres what some of our reviewers had to say about their models:

"It is a very good looking car, and amazingly cheap to run. This car seems like it will last forever. One of my favourite cars ever!!!"

"The Toyota Celica is a stunning car, even though mine was 20 years old! Very fast, very reliable and of course still very good looking!"

"After 14 years of driving my Toyota Celica, I can say: if you want a good looking and performing car that will last forever, this is it.

Latest Toyotas

Last year the new Celica Blue range was launched.

Car Pages said:

Distinguished by special interior trim and upholstery and extra style and equipment features.

This year the new Toyota Celica GT was offered.

Test Driven says:

In its new GT trim it hugs the road even closer..