The new Toyota Celica, which will debut in Europe at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show this September, represents a bold step forward in the design and engineering of mainstream sports coupes for Toyota. Compared to past models, the Celica is shorter in length, but longer in wheelbase with greatly reduced front and rear overhangs. The overall effect is very striking. The new Celica is a 2+2 coupe powered by a new 1.8-litre VVT-i engine (first used in the Yaris) driving through a six-speed manual gearbox. The 1.8 litre 4-cylinder engine produces 140bhp at 6,400rpm and 125lb.ft of torque at 4,200rpm.
This Celica is the seventh generation of a very popular coupe range. In the past Celica has been the cornerstone of Toyota's
worldwide motor sport success, winning the World Rally Championship in 1993 and 1994. Where as the Corolla now assumes that mantle, the Celica will be Toyota's technology showcase. It may not appeal to the masses with its sharp concept-car styling, but it is certainly individual, and nobody can argue with the figures.
A step up from the current Celica
Designed by Toyota�s Calty Research division in California, the Celica is the result of Toyota's new approach to the sports car market, combining a low, compact exterior design with a long wheelbase, not dissimilar to the current MR2. Its striking 'cab-forward' design results in a squat 'wheel at each corner' look. This gives the impression that the Celica is stable and secure on the road, and other drivers will soon see it approaching in the rear-view mirror.
New engine technology
Toyota engineers took a fresh look at performance too. Rather than increase power simply by increasing engine size, the new Celica takes a new approach - variable valve timing. The compact 1.8-litre VVT-i engine installed in a relatively light body shell offers a strong power to weight ratio. The base model may have only 140bhp, but the Celica range will have several more powerful derivatives. Expect a turbo version to be produced, however, it is unclear whether Toyota will import it into the UK. Still, there is always the grey import market to turn to....
Safety
Occupant safety was of utmost importance to Toyota when designing the new Celica. Its energy-absorbing structure was developed using a high degree of computer-aided design and engineering that significantly reduced development time. Safety features include both driver and passenger airbags and front seat side airbags as standard. Anti-lock brakes with electronic braking force distribution and pre-tensioned seat belts with force limiters are also standard.
The front bumper, side members, and front and centre-floor cross members were all constructed using high-strength steel. To help disperse energy from a side impact, Celica's side-door impact beams were also made of high-tensile steel, and for additional support, the front floor pan has been reinforced. To further help reduce any injury to the driver, the brake pedal assembly was designed to minimise pedal intrusion in a frontal collision. For stopping power the new Celica is equipped with 14" ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An impressive package indeed. Interestingly, if (read when) a convertible version is launched, it appears that the floor pan will not need amajor modification to retain it's stiffness.
With newly developed, double wishbone rear suspension and MacPherson struts at the front, the first Celica model are a compromise between
sports handling and a comfortable, smooth ride. Noise, vibration and harshness should be kept well in check, as you would expect from Toyota, and reliability should be exemplary.
Interior
Air conditioning, electric windows, leather trim and an electric sunroof will be among the items offered on UK specification Celicas.
Storage space in the interior is ample with the front console big enough to hold eight CD cases or 10 cassette tapes as well as two cups. Door and seat pockets provide more storage room. The rear seat backs can be folded forward, providing additional boot space.
Worldwide sales
New Celica will go on sale in the USA shortly and full UK technical specifications, options, colours, and pricing will be made available at the London Motor Show in October. We'll be there to see it in all its glory. More then.
