1997 Toyota Tercel review from Australia and New Zealand
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing has gone wrong so far, although the battery may need replacing soon; it seems to lose charge if the car is not driven for a few days.
General comments?
The car is a Japanese import with one New Zealand owner.
The interior and overall condition of the car was almost as new when I bought it.
It is a comfortable car to drive around town. Although the car is not too comfortable for long journeys, as the seats lack under-thigh support.
The 1.3 litre engine and three speed auto limits performance in hills, requiring a manual shift to 2nd. Performance on the flat is good and the car comfortably cruises at 100-115kmh.
Rear seat accommodation is limited, strictly for small children only.
I am somewhat disappointed with the fuel consumption. 37mpg is less than expected from a light weight car with a 1.3 liter engine.
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| A reliable small car |
| 1996 - Tercel Base 1.5L 5EFE Gasoline Basic, but Solid and Reliable |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.3 petrol Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 105000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 109000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Mazda 323 |
| Date of Entry | 4th March, 2008 |