As I mentioned earlier, the GT-S is well endowed. Acceleration is quick at 7.2 seconds to 100 km/h, but just the same it didn't feel like it had quite as much "oomph" as some of its competitors, such as last year's MazdaSpeed Protegé or 20th Anniversary GTI 1.8T. A little research unearthed something I didn't

The GT-S comes equipped with a set of sharp looking 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels surrounded with 205/50R16 rubber. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

expect, however, that the 'Speed in only good for 7.4 to 100 km/h, and the GTI 7.5 to 100. Not too far behind the Celica GT-S, but still slower. So why do the turbocharged cars feel quicker? Probably because the Mazda and VW don't have a heck of a lot of grunt before the turbo spools up, and then all of a sudden there's a surge of power all the way up to redline. The GT-S, on the other hand, delivers its power in a more linear fashion, still surging at about 6,000 rpm when the variable valve timing kicks in, but going about its business in a more refined, and as the numbers prove, more effective manner. The Celica Tsunami also has a pretty fly set of tires, rims and brakes. Penetrating the pavement is a set of 5-spoke aluminum alloy wheels surrounded by 205/50R16 rubber, not quite to tuner car specs (17s would be a step toward that) but still looking good just the same. Standard on the GT-S are front ventilated and solid rear disc brakes with ABS and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). It stops quickly. Need I say more?

Inside the Tsunami is a "tidal wave" of goodness. Ok, how lame am I? Anyway, I found the front sport-style bucket seats, finished with red or blue (as on my test car) suede inserts, to be tres chic and tres

The sound quality of the car's 200-watt Panasonic audio system is slammin' and the speakers are superb. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

comfortable for my fanny, especially on the multiple hour drive down to Niagara Falls, and the extended wait I encountered at the Welland Canal while a tanker moseyed on by. In addition, it was nice to listen to my relaxing tunes on the 200-watt Panasonic audio system. Sound quality is slammin' and the speakers are superb. The buttons on the stereo system are quite small, however, similar to the system in the RAV-4 Chili Edition. It took a few moments for me to figure out which buttons did what, but after a little effort it was smooth cruising. I liked the stereo's remote control, and also the fact that the faceplate is removable - taking away any temptation from would-be thieves. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob (and bucket seats) are colour-coordinated to the exterior of the car, making it cute (not overkill) and functional. Toyota also adds Tsunami badging to the exterior, as well as the special floor mats and upscale owner's manual "wallet."