Toyota has launched its all-new Celica, with one of the most advanced engines available in a car in Australia.

Smaller and lighter than the vehicle it supersedes, it actually has an increased wheelbase, plus greater interior space and luggage capacity, while being overall more compact.

This new Celica is the first Toyota offered in Australia with a six-speed transmission, side airbag availability and E-shift, and only the second Toyota (after the recently launched Echo) with intelligent variable valve timing.

Its all-new 1.8 litre twin-cam 16-valve engine, while smaller than the previous model engine in terms of capacity, has intelligent variable valve timing which allows it to develop 40 percent more power – a peak output of 140kW at 7600rpm.

The coupe’s 0-100km/h acceleration time has been slashed by nearly two seconds.

And the all-new engine is matched to two breakthrough transmissions - a six-speed manual transmission and the first TMC-produced transmission in Australia with Formula One-type electronic shift, a four-speed direct-drive automatic which can be shifted using buttons on the steering wheel.

That increased performance is matched to improved active and passive safety, a new stronger body, double-wishbone rear suspension, a new interior and lower NVH. The improved suspension provides better steering, handling, grip and ride.

Celica’s new interior features a cross-over style cockpit, with motorcycle-style instruments, a genuine leather bound three-spoke steering wheel, drilled metal pedals (ZR model only) and race-car type front seats.

The new Celica is significantly quieter than its predecessor in all driving conditions, and is offered in two model variants - SX and ZR - both with the choice of six-speed manual or e-shift automatic transmission.

Both models have dual SRS airbags with force-limiting front seatbelt pretensioners, ABS with electronic brake distribution (standard on ZR, optional on SX), CD tuner with six speakers, alloy wheels with V-speed rated tyres, cruise control, wireless door locks and power windows.

Side airbags are standard equipment on ZR and optionally available on the SX.