Stock #6974
Boasting more horsepower, a better-equipped cabin, and an even more refined ride, the 2000 Celsior took all the successes of its predecessor and ran with them.
Exterior Overview
When the Toyota Celsior first debuted, it broke the mold and laid the framework for luxury Japanese vehicles to take over the market, both in their home country and beyond. After 10 years of consistent innovation, it was time for the brand to unveil the model’s biggest redesign to date, with the introduction of the UCF30 chassis. Boasting more horsepower, a better-equipped cabin, and an even more refined ride, the 2000 Celsior took all the successes of its predecessor and ran with them. Finished in White Frost Mica (062) our Celsior Type C is a factory fresh example of this groundbreaking chassis, with only OEM rainguards and an optional parking pole jazzing up the exterior. Save for a few minor stone chips, and dings, it’s hard to scrutinize the cosmetics. Also appealing are the 96k miles on the clock, which are verified, documented, and position this Celsior nicely in a market saturated with high mileage LS430’s. A luxurious cruiser designed to stand the test of time, it’s easy to see why we’re head over heels for these Japanese Classics!
Interior Overview
Bearing the Lexus marque in the USA, the interior of this Celsior is nothing less than impressive, innovative, and opulent. Carrying on traditions from the previous generation, premium materials were used, but this Celsior has loads more power equipment, and convenience features. For starters, additional safety was added, with dual front, side, and curtain SRS airbags. Plush leather upholstery adorns both front and rear benches, and both driver and passenger benefit from heated power adjustable seats. Your rear passengers can keep their tushies warm, with heated seats that also power recline for optimum comfort. The driver can dial in a tailored fit behind the wheel, with power-adjustable headrests, dual lumbar adjustment, and a sliding seat base. The tan leather has held up well to daily use and abuse, and is in good nick. The same can be said for the condition of the steering wheel, which is mated to a functional power tilt and telescoping steering column. The center stack is intuitively designed and is chock full of tons of useful power equipment. A factory touch screen displays clearly, and physical buttons allow both driver and passenger to dial in dual zone automatic climate control. Cold A/C and hot heat work like a charm through the optional oscillating vents, and rear passengers have their own dedicated set of climate vents. Also functional is premium OEM audio. If you prefer the windows down and music loud, all four power windows are operable, and a large power moonroof can unfurl. A factory “smart key” detects your proximity to the vehicle and makes entry and exit seamless. The headliner is tight and tidy, and the carpets are protected by OEM mats. With a slew of premium materials and terrific build quality, it’s hard to go wrong, and we think the next owner will be more than pleased with the cockpit’s condition.
Mechanical Overview
The 4.3l 3UZ-FE was shared between USDM and JDM platforms, making parts acquisition and servicing on this Celsior a breeze. Boasting additional displacement, yet retaining the reliable and efficient VVT-i technology equipped on the previous Celsior facelift, these motors run like a top, and ours is fresh off a recent service for good measure. It cranks over with haste, thanks to a new 12v battery we installed here in the shop. After an oil and filter service, we tended to a new engine air filter, and installed a brand new mass air flow sensor to help the V8 run strong and smooth. We addressed a leak at the lower oil pan and valve covers, and chucked in eight new spark plugs while we were in there. The 4.3l roars up to highway speeds, and a 5-speed automatic gearbox helps put the power to the ground. Fresh off a fluid flush, we also resealed the transmission pan so it wouldn’t sweat a drop. The factory air suspension rides like a cloud, and the rear wheel drive, long wheelbase layout makes highway cruising stable and sophisticated. New bushings in the front rearward control arms helped this super saloon pass state safety inspection, and we went through the legwork of rebuilding the steering rack with new seals, so the system stays feather light and easy to operate. Upon reassembly, the rack received new inner and outer tie rods, boots, and bushings where it mounts to the subframe. We also dialed in all this good maintenance with a fresh alignment. New front brake pads and rotors help the ABS brakes slow to a screeching halt, and the stock alloys are wrapped in good Dunlop rubber to keep you glued to the pavement for miles to come!
*California Residents: In order to register a Grey Market vehicle in the state of California then it will have to be made CARB compliant first. CARB certifications will have to be performed within the state. Depending on the vehicle and any existing modifications will affect the pricing. Typically CARB compliance will range between 5-10K. Additional information can be found on the California Air Resources Board website.