2002 Toyota Celica GT-S

Organic shapes meld with subtle brightwork accents to yield a cockpit that perfectly complements the car's exterior cues.

While one has to work a bit to get the most out of the powertrain in the GT-S, that's not the case with its chassis. Stunningly competent at all times, it definitely proves that a front-driver can be big fun when properly sorted out. The suspension formula includes MacPherson struts up front, double wishbones in the rear and an anti-roll bar at either end. Aggressively taut but hardly harsh, that combination keeps body roll and weight jacking to a minimum, which permits some great pitch and catch exercises on any accommodating bit of twisty two-lane. Effectively abetting these transitions is a well-weighted power rack-and-pinion steering system backed by grippy low-profile tires. Tracking crisply and cleanly, the GT-S transitions from neutrality to modest push as the corners tighten. At the limit, a moment of well-timed trailing throttle tucks the nose and rotates the tail of this agile street stormer, pulling it back into line and off in search of the next serpentine switchback.


As with its predecessors, the passenger compartment of the latest Celica is compact but comfortable and definitely purpose built. Organic shapes meld with subtle brightwork accents to yield a cockpit that perfectly complements the car's exterior cues. Main control layouts are all quite good, although the orange-on-black instrument markings could be a bit more legible and the heater/air conditioning controls are positioned a bit low in the center of the dash. In keeping with the genre, the Celica's rear seat is decidedly scaled for the comfort of kidlets. However, the standard split/folding back does greatly enhance the capacity and overall utility of its 16.9 cubic foot rear cargo bay.


The Celica GT-S, particularly when augmented with Action Package accoutrements, is definitely not a car for everyone. By design, it makes certain demands in exchange for delivering its performance goods. But if your vehicular priorities happen to revolve around finding a travel mate that can maximize driving fun, this free-spirited flyer has a lot to offer. (www.toyota.com)