1995 Toyota Tercel

Overview

The 1995 model of the Toyota Tercel has been greatly enhanced and upgraded from previous versions especially with respect to safety and engine performance and fuel efficiency. The interior and exterior have been changed to give a more sporty image and improved cabin visability, space and ergonomics. The materials used in the fit and finish are newer lighter products which improve handling and are cheaper and easier to repair and recycle.

The range comprises a front wheel drive two door coupe, and a two and four door DX model with automatic and manual transmissions for each model. Here we look at the four door DX with a range of options.

Walkaround

The dimensions remain the same as previous models but the 1995 Tercel has a redesigned outside featuring aerodynamic styling, a sloping hood, smooth countours and moulding for the pillars giving a much more softer and rounded feel. As a consequence wind resistance and noise are decreased and fuel efficiency is improved.

In terms of safety features the body and frame have been developed to protect the passangers with energy absorbing crumple zones and reinforced doors. Extra insulation inside on the floor and inside some cavities further reduces noise, while the exterior is made from anticorrosion sheet steel and chip resistant paint.

The Tercel 1995 model has a new engine which is 1.5 liter 4 cylinder with electronic fuel injection for increased power and reduced exhaust emissions. Other new features are a new fully electronic adjustment free ignition system that does away with the need for a distributor. An onboard computer performs diagnostics and helps mechanics locate and repair problems.

The suspension remains largely unchanged from the 1994 Tercel but it has been tuned for a better ride. Springs and shock absorber valves have been redesigned and give much better performance.

Interior Features

Inside the cabin there is generous headroom for front and back passengers as well as many new improved things which provide a more comfortable environment than the previous model.

Fully carpeted throughout and covered with comfortable fabric the seats and floor are pleasing to look at and use on the DX model although the base Tercel comes with slightly cheaper looking and feeling vinyl coverings. The seat belts on the four door model are adjustable and the doors are equiped with child protection locks.0

The outside mirrors are remote controlled but the system is slightly weaker than needed and somewhat difficult to adjust precisely. All models have a recessed cupholder and a full center console with storage for cassettes and CDs.

Storage space is located throughout in a range of small but well designed spaces. Map pockets are conviently located on the doors and a fairly large space between the front seats holds a range of items. There is also a small unit on the dash next to the wheel and a recessed space on top.

At the rear there is a 9.3 cubic foot storage space which can be extended on the DX models optional 60/40 fold down split rear seats. However access is somewhat hindered by the angle of the rear hatch. The spare type and tools are easy to access.

Driving Impressions

On the road the engine provided enough power and torque to deliver a pleasing and fun ride on the highway. In town its improved handling over the previous model increased maneuverability in traffic and parking spaces.

The ride was smooth thanks to the improved suspension and optional power steering and absorbed most of the bumps and knocks on a range of surfaces. There werent any shakes or rattles and this proves that the new suspension system has been sucessfully tuned.

However, despite all the measures taken to reduce road noise there was still an audible and sometimes irritating hum. The visability, although better than previously was still reduced at the rear because of the small glass and rear crossbar. These were clearly visible in the rearview mirror.

Fuel economy has improved a lot with the Tercel's average 29mpg in the city and 33 on the highway. During testing the DX model gave 45mpg on the highway.

Summary

The 1995 Tercel is an entry level subcompact with offers a fairly strong mix of improved safety and driving features but the base models don't provide much in the way of comfort compared with the DX. The 1995 model offers much better features over previous models such as standard dual airbags, a more fuel efficient engine, and easier serviceability which do tip the balance in its favor.

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