Toyota Tercel (L40). 1990–4 (prod. n/a). 2-, 3- and 4-door sedan. F/F, F/A, 1295, 1456 cm³ petrol, 1453 cm³ diesel (I4 OHC), 1331, 1496 cm³ (I4 DOHC). Toyota enters the 1990s with a more rounded, sporty-looking Tercel. Hatchback meant to appeal to women, with canvas-top option. Much the same formula: very economical and driveable around town. Noisy and not the most refined, while the compact shape did not lend itself well to rear space (the wheelbase was the same as L30, while overall length fell). Below average on handling and performance. Two-door for export only; no five-door hatch in this generation. OHC petrol engines for export; home market had the DOHC units plus the diesel.

Manufacturing location: Toyota City, Aichi, Japan

Marque: Toyota | Model: Toyota Tercel | Predecessor: Toyota Tercel (L30) | Successor: Toyota Tercel (L50)

q.v. Toyota Corsa (L40), Toyota Corolla II (L40)

Off-site link

• ‘偉大なる“Up! Down 野郎たち”! 37’—a history of the L40 series of Tercel, Corsa and Corolla II