There are just two engine options and both can be justified. Having decided the Celica is not a performance car, the 1.8 ST is perfectly okay at getting the car to 60 mph in under 10 seconds. The GT does it a couple of seconds quicker, but is a lot pricier. Besides which, the gearbox is set for motorway cruising and requires lots of shifting to get a rapid response.

The entry level 1.8 is only slightly slower than the 2.0; GT-Four is the closest to a real sports car.

Handling is the Celica’s strong point if all the owner wants is a safe, and predictable performer. It can certainly handle the 2.0 litre car’s power and the steering is sharp enough, but it just does not feel as agile as a sports car should. Competent handling, with good grip and roadholding. The ride is very good on most surfaces.