Toyota Caldina T24 2.0i GT-FOUR (260 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.6 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Toyota Caldina:

The Toyota Caldina is an automobile manufactured by Toyota for the Japanese market from 1992 to 2007. It replaced the Corona and Carina wagons, and was sold at Toyota Store and Toyopet Store locations in Japan. While cars bearing the Caldina nameplate have never been officially exported by Toyota, its available 4WD capability and large capacity have made it a popular grey import in Australia, New Zealand, Russia and many South American countries. When it was discontinued in 2007, the T270 series Avensis wagon/estate assumed its market position....(Read more on Wikipedia)

T24 Overview:

Toyota Caldina (T24). With 324 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1240 kg, it’s quite light. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. A car with an extended rear cargo area, combining passenger comfort with increased storage. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The Toyota Caldina T24 was primarily a Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicle and was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. Therefore, specific safety ratings from this organization are not available.

2.0i GT-FOUR (260 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Exceptional performance for a wagon, thanks to the legendary 3S-GTE turbo engine and AWD. Offers thrilling acceleration and dynamic handling, reminiscent of rally heritage.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a significant compromise due to its high-performance nature, turbocharger, and all-wheel-drive system. Expect higher running costs.

Best Use Case: Spirited driving, performance enthusiasts, occasional track days, or those needing a practical car with serious power. Excellent for highway cruising with ample overtaking power.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional performance from GT-FOUR variant (3S-GTE engine)
  • • High reliability across the range (typical Toyota)
  • • Practical and versatile station wagon body style
  • • Good build quality and comfortable ride
  • • All-wheel-drive options for enhanced traction

Cons:

  • • Primarily a JDM vehicle, parts and servicing can be challenging outside Japan
  • • GT-FOUR fuel economy is poor
  • • Interior design can feel dated compared to contemporary European rivals
  • • Limited official safety ratings (no Euro NCAP)
  • • Base engines can feel underpowered for spirited driving

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(T21: 1997 - 2002).

General:
Brand:Toyota
Model:Caldina
Generation:T24
Modification (Engine):2.0i GT-FOUR (260 Hp)
Start of production:2002
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Station wagon (estate)
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:260 Hp @ 6200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:130.1 Hp/l [60mm less]
Torque:324 Nm @ 4400 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:3S-GTE More details about the engine 3S-GTE
Engine displacement:1998
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine oil capacity:4.5 l
Coolant:7.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:86 mm mm
Piston Stroke:86 mm mm
Compression ratio:9:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio:4.8 kg/Hp, 209.7 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.8 kg/Nm, 261.3 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1240
Fuel tank capacity:60 l
Size:
Length:4510 mm mm [60mm less]
Width:1740 mm mm [45mm more]
Height:1445 mm mm [30mm less]
Wheelbase:2700 mm mm [120mm more]
Front track:1505 mm
Rear (Back) track:1500 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.8 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc [above average]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Tires size195/65 R15

Is it love at first sight with the Toyota Caldina? Tell us your story!