1998 Toyota Caldina G review from Australia and New Zealand
"I have been very happy with this car, less one or two faults as mentioned"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Blows a little blue smoke on cold start, but clears shortly after. Non-existent with warm start.
High stop light in spoiler had uneven LED brightness and failed WOF. To replace was going to cost $750 ex Japan. Had to make my own using an LED strip from an electronics shop and fix inside the cover.
Handle to open the boot was made of weak plastic and broke when the garage pulled too hard when locked. New handle ex Japan; once again expensive.
Because Caldina's are imported to New Zealand, parts are expensive if unique to this vehicle ie not generic across multiple Toyotas.
General comments?
Good economy.
Good comfort.
Good performance.
Good mid-size wagon.
Good looks.
Good reliability.
Very practical car and great for families. Not as much room overall compared to Subaru though.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | 1997 - Caldina GTT 2.0 litre turbo Fantastic, but a little cramped |
![]() ![]() | Where's the air-conditioning |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 150000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 160000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Subaru Legacy |
| Date of Entry | 29th December, 2007 |

