If you are looking for alternative to the high-priced Toyota Celica, the Toyota Paseo should be your choice. First introduced in 1992, the Paseo is smaller, cheaper, and more economical than the performance-driven Celica. The sport coupe competes with the Mitsubishi Lancer Coupe, the Hyundai S Coupe and the Nissan Exa.
The Toyota Paseo was released as a front wheel drive which shares its wheelbase with the Toyota Tarcel to replace the 2-door Corolla GT-S and SR5 in the same year. The Toyota Paseo was powered by a 1.5 L 4 cylinder engine that could produce up to 100 horsepower and 91 pound feet of torque which it shared with the Tarcel. A 5 speed manual transmission as standard and 4 speed automatic transmission was offered as an option. In some places like California, Paseo engines were rated at 93 horsepower and 100 pound feet of torque.
Though a lot of Paseo design was based on the Tarcel, some notable difference was the 14-inch wheels compared with the 13" with that of the Tarcel and improved suspension system. Exterior projection was also unique with the Paseo. Its sporty contours and lavish design made it stand from the rest of the competition. The comfort was also significantly evident during potholes and major bumps. Safety was at high grade thanks to its safety features including stabilizer bar, antilock braking, driver-side and passenger-side airbags, and automatic-locking retractors. Interior was neatly designed with consoles properly arranged for its price. Though you wont get any luxury package, the Paseo interior was already a beauty.
The second generation Paseo in 1997 was released with the convertible with manual folding top and a heated glass rear window. The model was retired in 1999.
Toyota has always been regarded as the best Japanese automaker that has conquered the automotive industry throughout the world. In fact, Toyota Motors produces an estimated eight million vehicles per year which made them the largest Japanese automaker and the second largest in the world just after the General Motors. With that reputation it is given that every Toyota vehicle like the Paseo will receive good and quality parts. Toyota maintains every vehicle with a good supply of replacement and aftermarket parts to keep every Paseo looks good at he same time performs well on the road.