What is the Toyota Tercel?
The Tercel was a small Toyota passenger car with an economy-focused role. Its modest petrol engine and compact format made it a straightforward choice for everyday driving.
Tercel generations
The US figures begin with the second generation (L20), represented for 1984–1986. The third generation (L30) followed in 1987–1990, the fourth (L40) in 1991–1994, and the fifth (L50) in 1995–1999. Through these generations, Toyota kept the Tercel in the small-car class while updating its design.
Engines and power
The US and Canadian listings cover 1.5-litre petrol engines. Toyota offered the Tercel in sedan and hatchback forms during its history, with body styles varying by market and year.
How economical was the Toyota Tercel, and where was it sold?
The lowest listed US consumption is 7.1 L/100 km, with a best combined EPA rating of 33 MPG. Canada’s lowest listed figure is 7.4 L/100 km on NRCan’s 5-cycle test. The EPA and NRCan procedures differ, so the figures are not directly equivalent. US listings cover 1984–1999, while Canadian figures cover 1995–1999.
Questions and answers
What type of car was the Toyota Tercel?
It was a small passenger car with an economy-focused role in Toyota’s range.
What engine size did the listed Tercel versions have?
The US and Canadian listings cover 1.5-litre petrol engines.
What is the Tercel’s lowest listed fuel consumption?
The lowest US EPA figure is 7.1 L/100 km. Canada’s lowest NRCan 5-cycle figure is 7.4 L/100 km.
Which Tercel generations are represented in the US?
The second generation is represented for 1984–1986, followed by the third (1987–1990), fourth (1991–1994) and fifth (1995–1999).
