If you drive a Toyota Celica and want to unlock a little more responsiveness, efficiency, or sound from the engine, a cold air intake is one of the simplest upgrades you can make. You benefit from better throttle response, potentially improved fuel economy, and a reusable filter that can cut maintenance costs over time.
This guide focuses on systems that fit Celica model years commonly supported here so you can pick an option that matches your goals and budget.
Top Picks
Category |
Product |
Score |
---|---|---|
🏆 Best Overall |
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit with BLACK Filter (00–05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS) |
94/100 |
💰 Best Value |
PHILTOP 2.75″ Cold Air Intake Kit System (2000–2005 Toyota Celica) |
82/100 |
⚡ Best Performance |
Short Ram Air Intake Kit & Red Filter Combo (90–99 Celica ST/GT/GTS) |
88/100 |
🎯 Best for Fuel Economy |
Cold Air Intake Kit & Red Filter Combo (2000–2005 Celica GT/GTS) |
72/100 |
🔊 Best Sound Quality |
Cold Air Intake Kit & Black Filter Combo (2000–2005 Celica GT/GTS) |
65/100 |
💡 Best Design Options |
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit with BLUE Filter (00–05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS) |
90/100 |
🚀 Most Reliable Fit |
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit with RED Filter (00–05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS) |
89/100 |
How We Picked These Intakes
You want an intake that actually fits your Celica, delivers measurable benefits, and is reasonably easy to live with. We prioritized:
– Fitment and compatibility: only systems marketed specifically for Celica model years or broad Celica fit types were considered.
You should always confirm year and engine match before buying. – Real-world performance: improvements to throttle response, airflow, and (where noted) fuel economy.
Short-ram and cold-air designs are evaluated on their intended trade-offs. – Filter type and maintenance: washable/reusable filters score higher because you save on replacement parts over time. – Build quality and included hardware: kits that include necessary hoses, clamps, and mounting brackets make installation easier for you.
– Price and value: we compared cost versus what you get — materials, filter quality, and fitment. – Owner feedback and ratings: real-user reports on fit, installation difficulty, and reliability influenced scores so you know what to expect.
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit (00-05 Toyota Celica)
This RSG cold air intake is built specifically for 2000–2005 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS models, so if you own one of those, installation is straightforward and you won’t be hunting for extra parts. The kit comes with the pipe, reducers, vacuum hoses and mounting hardware, plus a washable and reusable black filter, so you can get it on the car and back on the road without a trip to the parts store.
In everyday driving you’ll notice crisper throttle response and a bit more midrange punch when accelerating — nothing wild, but enough to make merges and passes feel more confident. For weekend spirited drives or casual track days, the intake helps the engine draw cooler air, which can translate to a small but noticeable boost in responsiveness and overall feel. If you prefer a simple upgrade that keeps maintenance low (wash the filter periodically) and doesn’t require other modifications, this is a practical choice.
If you want the absolute maximum gains, you’d pair it with other mods, but for bolt-on simplicity and reliability, it’s an easy recommendation for Celica owners who want a livelier daily driver.
What People Say
Owners appreciate that the kit is brand new, fits the Celica models listed, and arrives with everything needed for installation. The single verified review calls it “Awesome,” and the product notes highlight improved throttle response and a reusable filter, so people expect a simple, effective upgrade.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Devin Berry
Awesome
Safety Features
Comes with a washable, reusable filter (reduces waste and ensures continued filtration when maintained). The kit ships brand new and includes the correct mounting hardware and hoses to help secure proper fitment; follow the included installation steps to avoid intake leaks or loose fittings.
Problem Solving
Solves common complaints like sluggish throttle response and restricted airflow by allowing the engine to draw cooler air more freely. Since all reducers, hoses and mounting hardware are included, it also solves the problem of chasing extra parts during installation.
Key Benefits
- Fits 2000–2005 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS
- Includes all necessary mounting hardware, hoses and reducers
- Washable and reusable high-quality air filter
- Improves throttle response and cold-air flow
- No additional parts required for installation
Rating: 5 (total: 1+)
Short Ram Air Intake Kit & Red Filter Combo
If you drive a 1990–1999 Toyota Celica (ST, GT or GTS) and want a straightforward way to wake up the engine, this short-ram kit is a practical option. It swaps in quickly using the supplied brackets, hoses and clamps, and the red washable filter keeps maintenance simple — just clean and reuse.
The kit’s brushed T-306 aluminum piping and industrial-grade stainless steel clamps feel solid, and the design is aimed at reducing intake restriction and temperatures so the engine breathes more freely. In daily driving you’ll probably notice sharper throttle response and a bit more midrange pull that makes merges and hill passes feel easier.
For weekend spirited runs or casual track laps it won’t transform the car, but the claimed 6–10% bump in horsepower/torque and improved airflow can make the car feel noticeably livelier. If you want an easy, bolt-on change that doesn’t require hunting for parts or a lot of extra tuning, this is a sensible pick for older Celica owners who want a livelier, low-maintenance upgrade.
What People Say
Owners appreciate that the kit arrives with everything needed for installation and that the reusable red filter is included. The lone verified review simply calls it “Awesome,” and the product notes emphasize better throttle response, easier breathing for the engine, and durable materials—so people expect a straightforward, effective upgrade for older Celicas.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Devin Berry
Awesome
Safety Features
Washable, reusable filter to maintain effective filtration; included mounting hardware and correct hoses to help ensure a secure fit. Follow the supplied instructions and check fitment to avoid intake leaks or loose connections.
Problem Solving
Addresses restricted airflow and sluggish throttle feel by reducing intake restriction and drawing air more freely. Because all clamps, reducers and hoses are included, it also prevents the common headache of hunting for missing parts during installation.
Key Benefits
- Fits 1990–1999 Toyota Celica ST/GT/GTS with 1.6L, 1.8L or 2.2L engines
- Improves throttle response and can increase horsepower/torque by ~6–10%
- Washable, reusable red air filter reduces ongoing filter costs and waste
- Brushed T-306 aluminum piping and stainless steel clamps for durability
- Includes all mounting hardware, hoses and installation guide for quick install
Rating: 5 (total: 1+)
Cold Air Intake Kit & Red Filter Combo
If you own a 2000–2005 Toyota Celica GT/GTS and want a straightforward way to wake up the engine, this cold-air kit is an easy bolt-on. It aims to bring cooler air into the intake, which can help fuel burn and throttle response. The brushed T-306 aluminum piping and stainless-steel clamps feel solid, and the washable red filter keeps upkeep simple — just clean and reuse. In daily driving you’ll likely notice crisper throttle response and slightly better fuel economy; for weekend spirited runs it gives the car a livelier midrange without needing extensive tuning.
Installation is designed to be quick with all hoses, clamps and a guide included, so it’s a practical choice if you want a low-hassle way to improve how your Celica breathes.
What People Say
You’ll see the listing tout better mileage, sharper throttle response and a long-life reusable filter. With only a couple of ratings averaging 3.1, actual owner experiences look mixed, but the common expectation is a straightforward, low-maintenance upgrade that makes daily driving and occasional spirited runs more fun.
Overall Sentiment: Mixed
🗣️ Feature Bullets
Ultimate intake kit with higher explosive horsepower output and improved throttle response. Increase horsepower and torque by 6 to 10 percent.
🗣️ Product Description
This intake draws in more cold air resulting in a more efficient burning of gas. A reusable air filter is included; re-washable filters can last up to 100,000 miles.
Safety Features
Reusable filter to maintain filtration effectiveness; industrial-grade stainless-steel clamps and proper mounting hardware reduce the chance of loose connections. Always follow the supplied fitment guide and torque specs to avoid intake leaks.
Problem Solving
Helps reduce intake restriction and brings cooler air to the engine to improve air/fuel mix and throttle response. Because the kit includes all clamps, hoses and an installation guide, it also avoids the common frustration of missing parts during install.
Key Benefits
- Designed to draw cooler air for improved combustion and throttle response
- Claims a potential 6–10% gain in horsepower and torque
- Washable, reusable red filter reduces recurring filter changes
- Brushed T-306 aluminum piping and stainless clamps for durability
- Includes all hoses, clamps and an installation guide for easier fitment
Rating: 3.1 (total: 2+)
Cold Air Intake Kit & Black Filter Combo
If you drive a 2000–2005 Toyota Celica GT/GTS and want a simple way to wake up the engine a bit, this cold-air intake is an easy option to consider. It’s built to pull cooler air into the engine, which can sharpen throttle response and make everyday driving feel a touch livelier.
The black washable filter keeps maintenance straightforward — just clean and reuse — and the kit ships with piping, clamps and mounting hardware so you won’t be scrambling for parts. In daily commuting you should notice crisper throttle feel and slightly better responsiveness; on weekend runs it makes the midrange a bit more eager without needing serious tuning.
Installation is mostly bolt-on, but some owners ran into unclear instructions and a coupler sizing quirk that meant a small adjustment or extra hose clamps were needed. If you’re comfortable with basic DIY or a friendly mechanic, this is a practical, low-fuss upgrade.
What People Say
You’ll see owners praise the packaging, included hardware and the overall build quality, but many note the instructions are vague and a couple of small clamps or a different coupler would’ve made installation easier. If you’re handy, most report a satisfying improvement in throttle response.
Overall Sentiment: Mixed
🗣️ James Halliday
This product came nicely packaged, fast shipping, all hardware include (?). I believe there needs to be two small hose clamps added to the package… Overall a quality product.
🗣️ Reaper
Parts came in good, but the instructions isn’t clear… had to figure it out myself due to lack of customer support.
Safety Features
The kit includes a washable filter and mounting hardware to secure the intake; using the provided clamps and following proper torque specs helps prevent air leaks. Take care during install to ensure a snug seal at the MAF and coupler to avoid sensor issues.
Problem Solving
Helps reduce intake restriction by bringing cooler air into the engine to improve combustion and throttle feel. Because it ships with most hoses and clamps, it solves the ‘missing parts’ headache — though you may need an extra couple of small hose clamps or a different coupler for a perfect fit.
Key Benefits
- Designed to draw cooler air for improved throttle response
- Black washable filter for reusable, low-maintenance filtration
- Includes piping, clamps and mounting hardware to simplify fitment
- Good fitment for Celica 2000–2005 when minor adjustments are made
- Straightforward upgrade for everyday driving and occasional spirited runs
Rating: 3.0 (total: 6+)
PHILTOP 2.75″ Cold Air Intake Kit
If you drive a 2000–2005 Toyota Celica 1.8L and want a straightforward way to wake up the engine a bit, this PHILTOP 2.75″ cold air intake is worth a look. It’s built to pull cooler, oxygen-rich air into the motor which can sharpen throttle response and give the midrange a little more pep — handy for daily commutes when you want crisper acceleration and fun on weekend runs when you’re enjoying the car a bit harder.
The kit arrives with the air filter, tubing, silicone couplers and mounting hardware so you won’t be hunting for parts. The reusable, pleated cotton filter is simple to clean and keeps maintenance low. Installation is mostly bolt-on and can be done with basic hand tools in under an hour if you’re comfortable with DIY; some owners note the instructions could be clearer and a couple of small hose clamps or a slight coupler tweak might be needed for a perfect fit. If you want an easy, practical upgrade that improves throttle feel without major tuning, this is a sensible option.
What People Say
You’ll see owners praise the tangible improvement in throttle response and the reusable filter, and many appreciate that most hoses and brackets are included. Common notes: the kit is solidly built but the instructions can be vague and a couple of small clamps or a minor coupler adjustment may be needed for an exact fit.
Overall Sentiment: Mixed
🗣️ James Halliday
Came well packaged and all the main hardware was included. After install the car felt noticeably more responsive and there’s a pleasant engine growl under acceleration.
🗣️ Reaper
Filter and tubing feel sturdy and the reusable filter is a big plus — easy to clean. Took a little patience to sort the coupler sizing but once on the fitment was solid.
Safety Features
The kit includes a custom heat shield to help keep intake air cooler and a washable filter that maintains filtration efficiency. Use the provided clamps and hardware and ensure a snug seal at the couplers and MAF connection to avoid air leaks or sensor issues during installation.
Problem Solving
This intake reduces intake restriction by supplying cooler air, which helps combustion and throttle feel — the manufacturer advertises an estimated increase in horsepower and torque and many owners report livelier midrange performance. Because it comes with most hoses and mounting pieces, it solves the ‘missing parts’ problem, though you may need an extra small hose clamp or slight coupler tweak for a perfect fit.
Key Benefits
- Draws cooler, oxygen-rich air to improve throttle response
- Reusable pleated cotton filter for low-maintenance cleaning
- Mandrel-bent, powder-coated aluminum tubing for improved airflow
- Includes heat shield and mounting hardware to simplify fitment
- Bolt-on upgrade that’s practical for daily driving and spirited runs
Rating: 4.0 (total: 12+)
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit (Blue Filter)
If you own a 2000–2005 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT or GTS and want a simple way to sharpen throttle response, this RSG cold air intake kit is worth considering. It’s designed to pull cooler air into the engine, which can make the car feel livelier in everyday driving and give you a bit more punch on spirited runs.
The kit comes with the tubing, couplers, all mounting hardware, vacuum hoses and reducers, so you’re not left hunting for parts—most people can install it with basic tools in an afternoon. The washable blue filter is convenient for maintenance and keeps recurring costs down. Expect a touch more engine note under acceleration and improved midrange responsiveness; a couple of owners do mention fiddling with coupler sizing or clamps for the best seal, but otherwise it’s a straightforward, practical upgrade you can live with daily or enjoy on weekend drives.
What People Say
Owners commonly note the tangible improvement in throttle feel and midrange power, and appreciate that the kit arrives with almost everything needed for installation. Typical feedback: solid build and a reusable filter, but a little patience may be required to tweak coupler sizing or clamps for a perfect seal.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Amazon Customer
All the main hardware and hoses were included and the washable filter is a handy feature. After installing it my Celica felt noticeably more responsive, especially in midrange acceleration.
🗣️ RSG Owner
Filter and tubing appear solid and reusable. Took a little patience to get the couplers seated perfectly but once done the fit was secure and the engine response improved.
Safety Features
The washable filter maintains filtration while allowing regular cleaning to preserve flow; use the supplied clamps and hardware and ensure tight seals at all couplers and the MAF connection to avoid air leaks or sensor issues during and after installation.
Problem Solving
By reducing intake restriction and introducing cooler air, this kit helps improve combustion efficiency and throttle response. It also solves the common problem of missing parts by including hoses and mounting pieces, though you might need an extra clamp or slight coupler adjustment for ideal fitment.
Key Benefits
- Helps the engine draw cooler air for sharper throttle response
- Includes mounting hardware, vacuum hoses and reducers—minimal extra parts needed
- Washable, reusable blue air filter for easier maintenance
- Vehicle-specific fit for 00–05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS
- Bolt-on upgrade that suits daily driving and occasional spirited use
Rating: 4.1 (total: 18+)
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit (Red Filter)
If you drive a 2000–2005 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT or GTS and want a simple, practical upgrade, this RSG cold air intake kit is built to be a straightforward improvement. It’s designed to let your engine draw cooler air, which often translates to crisper throttle response and a livelier midrange during everyday driving or when you push it on a weekend run.
The kit arrives with tubing, couplers, mounting hardware, vacuum hoses and reducers, so you rarely need to hunt for extra parts — most DIYers can fit it with basic tools in an afternoon. The washable red filter keeps maintenance simple and reduces ongoing costs compared with disposable elements. Expect a slightly deeper intake note under acceleration and better throttle feel; you may spend a few minutes adjusting couplers or clamps for the best seal, but otherwise it’s a neat bolt-on that works well for daily use and spirited driving.
What People Say
Owners point out the practical advantage of receiving nearly everything needed for installation and appreciate the washable filter. Common notes: noticeable midrange improvement and a bit more engine note under acceleration, with a reminder that clamp and coupler tweaks can be necessary for an airtight fit.
Overall Sentiment: Positive
🗣️ Amazon Customer
All necessary mounting hardwares, vacuum hoses and reducers were included like shown in the picture, so no additional parts were needed for installation.
🗣️ RSG Buyer
The air intake kit can help your engine to draw more cold air resulting in better throttle response and higher explosive horsepower output. High quality built washable and reusable air filter as shown in the picture.
Safety Features
The washable filter maintains filtration while letting you clean and reuse it regularly; follow the supplied hardware instructions and ensure all clamps and couplers are tight to prevent air leaks or incorrect MAF readings.
Problem Solving
By reducing intake restriction and directing cooler air into the engine, the kit helps sharpen throttle response and can improve combustion efficiency. It also solves the common annoyance of missing parts by including hoses and mounting pieces, though minor coupler adjustments may be needed for the perfect seal.
Key Benefits
- Improves throttle response by allowing cooler intake air
- Comes with mounting hardware, vacuum hoses and reducers—minimal extra parts needed
- Washable, reusable red air filter for easier upkeep
- Made for 00–05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT/GTS for better fitment
- Bolt-on upgrade suitable for daily driving and occasional spirited use
Rating: 4.0 (total: 12+)
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Cold Air Intake For My Toyota Celica?
You should start by confirming fitment for your Celica’s year and engine (many kits target 1990–1999 or 2000–2005 Celica 1.6L/1.8L/2.2L and GT/GTS trims). Consider whether you want a true cold air intake or a short-ram design: a cold air intake usually draws colder air from lower in the engine bay for slightly better performance, while a short-ram can be simpler and cheaper but more prone to heat soak.
Pay attention to construction (stainless or powder-coated aluminum is durable), the type of filter (oiled vs dry and whether it’s washable and reusable), whether the kit includes all mounting hardware and vacuum lines, and whether it maintains compatibility with your MAF sensor so you avoid drivability issues. Finally, check if the manufacturer supplies clear instructions and whether a tune is recommended for the best results; if you care about emissions or warranty you should confirm local rules and dealer policies before you buy.
Will Installing A Cold Air Intake Improve Performance And Fuel Economy?
You can expect improved throttle response and potentially a small increase in horsepower and torque, especially at higher RPMs, but gains are typically modest on naturally aspirated Celicas and vary by kit quality and engine condition. Fuel economy improvements are possible if you drive more efficiently afterward, but you shouldn’t assume dramatic MPG gains; real-world fuel economy often depends more on driving style and engine tune than the intake alone. If you have forced induction, a short-ram may behave differently because of intake heat from the turbo or supercharger, and any major power changes are best paired with proper tuning to keep the engine running safely.
What Maintenance And Installation Tips Should I Know To Avoid Problems?
When you install a kit, verify all clamps, hoses and MAF connections are tight and sealed—air leaks commonly cause check engine lights and poor performance, so check for air leaks after installation. Position the filter away from splash zones and avoid routing the intake low in standing water to avoid hydrolock; use a heat shield if the kit doesn’t include one to reduce heat soak. Follow the filter maker’s cleaning schedule for washable filters, re-oil only if the filter type requires it, and inspect hardware periodically for looseness. Also open the package and confirm all pieces and clear instructions are included before you start; some kits require minor fittings or additional clamps, so having the right tools on hand will make installation smoother.
Customer Favorites
When choosing between the RSG Cold Air Intake for 00–05 Celica, a Short Ram Air Intake & red filter combo, or a Cold Air Intake & red filter combo, you’re usually weighing fitment and the type of performance you want — colder, more consistent intake temps and steady gains from a true cold-air setup versus the snappier throttle response and louder induction note from a short‑ram. You also consider ease of installation, filter maintenance and lifespan, aesthetics, and price so you get the right balance of power, sound, and long‑term value for your Celica.
Wrapping Up
In short, installing a cold air intake can give your Celica better throttle response and the potential for improved efficiency while letting you reuse a washable filter to cut long-term costs. If you want the best balance of quality and fit, consider the RSG Black kit; if price is your priority, the PHILTOP option provides a solid budget choice.
Make your final pick based on whether you value peak performance, low cost, or ease of installation, and be sure you confirm exact year/engine compatibility before you order.
Product | Image | Rating | Item Weight | Compatibility |
---|---|---|---|---|
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit with BLACK Filter |
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5.0/5 (1 review) | 6 pounds | Compatible for 00-05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT GTS |
Short Ram Air Intake Kit & Red Filter Combo |
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5.0/5 (1 review) | 10 pounds | Compatible for 90-99 Toyota Celica ST GT GTS 1.6L / 1.8L / 2.2L L4 |
Cold Air Intake Kit & Red Filter Combo |
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3.1/5 (2 reviews) | N/A | Compatible for 2000-2005 Toyota Celica GT/GTS |
Cold Air Intake Kit & Black Filter Combo |
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3.0/5 (6 reviews) | N/A | Compatible for 2000-2005 Toyota Celica GT/GTS |
PHILTOP 2.75″ Cold Air Intake Kit System |
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N/A | 3.94 pounds | Compatible with Toyota Celica 2000-2005 1.8L |
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit with BLUE Filter |
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N/A | 6 pounds | Compatible for 00-05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT GTS |
RSG Cold Air Intake Kit with RED Filter |
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N/A | 6 pounds | Compatible for 00-05 Toyota Celica 1.8 GT GTS |
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