The 3S-GTE is the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four used in Toyota’s Celica GT-Four (known as All-Trac in some markets). In the Celica lineup, it appears in three factory turbo variants: ST165, ST185, and ST205.
What the 3S-GTE is and why it matters
The 3S-GTE is Toyota’s turbocharged 2.0-liter engine designed for performance models. It powered the Celica GT-Four rally homologation cars and later appeared in other performance Toyotas, including the MR2 Turbo. Within the Celica lineup, it defined the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive GT-Four/All-Trac branch.
Celica models that used the 3S-GTE
Before listing the generations, note that the 3S-GTE was exclusive to the Celica GT-Four/All-Trac variants and did not appear in most standard Celica trims. The following factory Celica generations used the engine:
- ST165 (1986–1989): The original GT-Four with turbo 3S-GTE and four-wheel drive.
- ST185 (1990–1994): An updated GT-Four with the turbo engine and improved AWD system.
- ST205 (1994–1999): The final GT-Four generation, featuring the latest 3S-GTE variant and refined chassis.
In short, if you’re seeking a Celica with factory turbo power and all-wheel drive, focus on the GT-Four/All-Trac models across these three generations.
How to identify a 3S-GTE Celica
Look for indicators that the car is a GT-Four with the 3S-GTE engine and AWD drivetrain.
- Badging: GT-Four or All-Trac designation, often accompanied by turbo cues.
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive layout and GT-Four suspension/brake characteristics.
- Engine evidence: The 3S-GTE engine code and turbo components visible under the hood or listed on the engine bay stamp.
Note that non-turbo, non-All-Trac Celicas generally use naturally aspirated engines and lack these GT-Four features.
Summary
The 3S-GTE lives in the Toyota Celica GT-Four/All-Trac lineage, spanning three generations: ST165, ST185, and ST205. If you want a Celica with turbocharged performance and all-wheel drive, those GT-Four variants are the ones to seek.