Tes

Tes

Seventh Generation T230 Series

Late 1999, Toyota began production and sales of the new T230 series Celica. The seventh generation resembled the XYR concept baring the front bumper and rear spoiler.


(1999 XYR Concept)

The seventh generation 2000 model year was an element from TPG (Toyota Project Genesis) which by the media was a flop on Toyota's part. Their goal was to attract a more youthful crowd and a more affordable price towards their new lineup. Toyota's goal was to appeal the same buyers which were infused with the Integra and Honda Civic.

Whether you want to call it cheap or unique, Toyota took the time to lower the cost whenever possible. The T230 was much lighter than previous models and had noticeable differences; Initially moon-roofs are made of glass, the T230 were made of polymer plastic. The center console included 1 set of Power windows, locks which controlled both doors. The T230 included the famous American standard of 4 cup holders [pause for laughter]; two in the front and two in the rear. Rear seating was contoured for only two passengers and could be split 60/40 to increase cargo capacity.

Options Included: ABS, fog lights, rear spoiler, upgraded JBL stereo system, 6-disc cd changer, HID low beam headlights, leather seat surfaces, floor mats, side-impact airbags, vehicle intrusion protection (VIP alarms) including door lock/unlock feature, cargo net, and finally a hatchback cargo cover.

The 7th Gen came in two different models, the ZZT230 and the ZZT231. Economically powered the ZZT230 had a 1.8L 4-cylinder 140 hp (1ZZ-FE) engine. On the performance side the ZZT231 was powered by a whom-ping 1.8L 4-cylinder 191 hp (2ZZ-GE) engine. Yamaha who co-developed the 2ZZ-GE featured a two-step variable valve lift control linked with its variable valve timing. Mid 2004, CNNMoney.com rated the Celica as one of the best cars to purchase for gas mileage.

Exporting the Celica ceased in July 2005, the very last Celica was rolled off production on April 21, 2006. The Celica was only available in Japan for its last year on the line.


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