Toyota Tercel 1994 Review

The Toyota Tercel, known for its reliability and economical nature, made its debut in the 1970s. By 1994, the car was part of its fifth and final generation which ran from 1994 to 1999. Throughout its existence, the Tercel saw five distinct generations.

Exterior Design

The 1994 Tercel adopted a more streamlined and aerodynamic design than its predecessors, with rounded corners and fewer sharp angles. The front grille was minimalistic, complemented by clear headlamp clusters. The ground clearance for the Tercel was typical of compact cars of that era, around 150mm.

Interior Design

The interior of the Tercel was modest but functional. Emphasis was placed on maximizing space and ensuring practicality. The dashboard layout was straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges. The boot space was adequate for a compact sedan of its time, offering roughly 320 liters of cargo space.

Performance

Powered primarily by a 1.5L 4-cylinder engine, the Tercel was never meant to be a powerhouse. However, it provided sufficient power for city driving and occasional highway trips. The car was recognized more for its fuel efficiency than its power output.

Ride Quality

The Tercel’s ride was comfortable for its class, with a suspension designed for city commuting. While not particularly sporty, it was nimble enough for tight parking spaces and city maneuvers.

Safety & Technology

Being a budget-friendly car from the 90s, the Tercel came with basic safety features like front airbags and seatbelts. There wasn’t a heavy emphasis on tech, but the essentials like an AM/FM radio and air conditioning were present in most trims.