CELICA has engine-speed sensitive power-assisted rack and pinion steering, with 2.9 turns lock-to-lock. The steering has been re-engineered and includes a new compact, lightweight vane-type steering pump. The car's shorter overhangs and lighter weight are also said to contribute to improved steering response.

Steering wheel vibration has been reduced by the adoption of a high-stiffness instrument panel reinforcement and steering column assembly, and a high-stiffness, lightweight steering wheel. The steering column is five-way energy absorbing, with a lower bracket, energy absorbing plate, breakaway bracket, contractile main shaft and contractile intermediate shaft. Celica's steering column has stepless tilt adjustment.