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1992
Toyota Paseo

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$10,338
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  • 2dr Coupe Sport 5-Spd
    Starts at
    $10,338
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  • 2dr Coupe Sport Auto
    Starts at
    $11,138
    See all specs

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Expert 1992 Toyota Paseo review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Paul Dean
Full article
our expert's take

Let’s make one thing perfectly clear: By no stretch of any proclamation or the electoral process is Toyota the official car of Southern California. That claim is nothing more than a sloganeer’s jingle and a definite untruth in advertising.

On the other hand, if a vehicle were to join the golden poppy and blue-corn nachos as official symbols of the Motoring State, there might be none better than the 1992 Toyota Paseo.

The car clearly is California: young, fun and on a constant course for the fresh outdoors. It is fit, compact, gutty, winks at the opposite sex and itches to run. Itis very much a part of today but also is much less serious than life and our times. In short, it is one very cool dude.

As a mini-sport coupe, the 2+2 Paseo is slotted safely in one of the market’s fastest growing segments. That also puts it in fast, very tough company.

The Paseo will fight for sales and survival against the well-established Honda CRX, the base Geo Storm, the new Nissan NX1600, the entry-level Isuzu Impulse and Hyundai Scoupe. And Mazda’s MX-3, the latest in this class of 1.5-liter Dinky Toys, waits impatiently in the wings.

So to evaluate the Paseo–any Californian asking for a translation of paseo risks being exiled to North Dakota–is to look for what the car offers that is as good as, or possibly better than, the sporty competition.

At $9,988, the price is certainly right and lower than most. The four-cylinder, 16-valve engine develops 100 horsepower, which is quicker and peppier than the Storm, CRX, Scoupe, Nissan and Isuzu. That amount of muscle propelling a car weighing only 2,070 pounds also gives the Paseo the best power-to-weight ratio of any vehicle in its class.

Better yet, the car is offered with an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, an expensive option unheard of among bargain-basement motor cars.

Its basis is a computer chip that allows the engine and transmission to compare notes. The unit measures throttle setting, vehicle speed and engine temperature, then automatically positions the shift points to provide an optimum blend of performance, smoothness and fuel efficiency.

Our turquoise test car, however, came with a five-speed manual that was fluid and flexible and had a short throw very much in keeping with the vehicle’s competitive nature. A manual transmission further squeezes fuel consumption, giving the Paseo city-highway averages of 28 and 34 m.p.g. That translates, incredibly, to about 300 miles between $13 fill-ups of regular unleaded.

Based on the Toyota Tercel chassis–although reskinned, re-engined and obviously reconfigured far from anything resembling such a commuter capsule–the Paseo’s styling cribs lightly from the MR2, which is a pretty exhilarating source to loot. Headlights are flush and molded, wrap-around and a little feline.

The optional rear winglet won’t assist the handlin g, but it certainly is raffish and adds a hatchback look to the rear end. That, however, is pure illusion. The car will be sold only as a two-door with an eight-cubic-foot trunk that converts into a 29-cubic-foot cargo hold by folding down the rear seat backs.

Those rear seats are the standard apology. Use them only for hauling Teddy bears or large enemies. Other passengers should be fed industrial-strength muscle relaxants before being crammed back there.

The Paseo’s cabin is the crucible of the car’s basic economy, so do not look for much beyond basic interior furnishings. Windows are hand-cranked. Seats and door liners are upholstered in polyester tweed with gray mouse fur on some flat surfaces.

No air bags on either side. Seats and side mirrors are hand-operated. Installing sun visors without even a $1.50 vanity mirror is carrying austerity to monastic levels.

The largest luxury is a pair of cup holders. Unfortunately, they are mounted direct y over the ashtrays. Those with all the vices may very well wind up with Marlboro butts in their coffee.

Despite all its enforced abstinence, the Paseo’s interior is not unpleasant. It is fully functional and even displays a certain amount of design savvy in keeping the instrument cluster, heater vents and center console controls simple without falling victim to the cheap and dinky.

Toyota’s technical center in Gardena designed the chassis and suspension geometry. It uses a combination of front MacPherson struts, rear trailing torsion beams and new axle bushings to stiffen against roll. Translation: Here is a versatile platform that will neither rattle the fillings of cautious drivers nor produce damp palms and travel nausea in sportier pilots.

We would have like disc brakes on all four wheels instead of the Paseo’s cost-cutting disc-drum setup. But stopping, even under panic conditions, even without the security of an anti-lock system, was instant and positive–another bonus of that light curb weight.

Front-wheel drive gives the car the anticipated skitters of torque steer. One day, some engineer will tame that particular goblin and front wheels will be restored to biting without flex. Apart from that flash of bad manners, the Paseo’s handling is virtually flawless and certainly among the best of the sport coupes.

It should be noted that all modern sporty cars track true to their steering lines, whether cornering sedately or squirting through freeway traffic. A mechanical lag between dipping the gas pedal and feeling grip on the driving wheels is a thing of the past. No matter how hard the maneuver or how wicked the curve, today’s mini-coupes are flatter and firmer by far, with never a hint of tipping on their roofs.

Paseo’s edge is in coordinating all these advances and advantages into one well-mannered, stable, but nevertheless spirited whole. And without compromising comfort or your personal debtstructure.

From this concert of handling and performance, the Paseo will stimulate and satisfy, which in turn elevates mundane motoring into the driving experience.

All advertising claims considered, you may even love what this Toyota does for you.

1992 Toyota Paseo

The Good Hearty performance for light and young of heart. Concerted handling. Low price, high value. Sips gas by eye-dropper.

The Bad What trunk? What rear seats?

The Ugly Visors sans mirrors.

Cost Base: $9,988. As tested, $12,713 (including air conditioning, alloy wheels, cruise control, moon roof, rear spoiler, sound system upgrade).

Engine Four cylinders, double overhead cams, 16 valves and 1.5 liters developing 100 horsepower.

Type Front-drive, two-door, 2+2 mini-sport coupe.

Performance 0-60 m.p.h., as tested, 9.8 seconds. Top speed, manufacturer’s estimate, 118 m. p.h. Fuel consumption, EPA average, city-highway, 28 and 34 m.p.g.

Curb Weight 2,070 pounds.

1992 Toyota Paseo review: Our expert's take
By Paul Dean

Let’s make one thing perfectly clear: By no stretch of any proclamation or the electoral process is Toyota the official car of Southern California. That claim is nothing more than a sloganeer’s jingle and a definite untruth in advertising.

On the other hand, if a vehicle were to join the golden poppy and blue-corn nachos as official symbols of the Motoring State, there might be none better than the 1992 Toyota Paseo.

The car clearly is California: young, fun and on a constant course for the fresh outdoors. It is fit, compact, gutty, winks at the opposite sex and itches to run. Itis very much a part of today but also is much less serious than life and our times. In short, it is one very cool dude.

As a mini-sport coupe, the 2+2 Paseo is slotted safely in one of the market’s fastest growing segments. That also puts it in fast, very tough company.

The Paseo will fight for sales and survival against the well-established Honda CRX, the base Geo Storm, the new Nissan NX1600, the entry-level Isuzu Impulse and Hyundai Scoupe. And Mazda’s MX-3, the latest in this class of 1.5-liter Dinky Toys, waits impatiently in the wings.

So to evaluate the Paseo–any Californian asking for a translation of paseo risks being exiled to North Dakota–is to look for what the car offers that is as good as, or possibly better than, the sporty competition.

At $9,988, the price is certainly right and lower than most. The four-cylinder, 16-valve engine develops 100 horsepower, which is quicker and peppier than the Storm, CRX, Scoupe, Nissan and Isuzu. That amount of muscle propelling a car weighing only 2,070 pounds also gives the Paseo the best power-to-weight ratio of any vehicle in its class.

Better yet, the car is offered with an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission, an expensive option unheard of among bargain-basement motor cars.

Its basis is a computer chip that allows the engine and transmission to compare notes. The unit measures throttle setting, vehicle speed and engine temperature, then automatically positions the shift points to provide an optimum blend of performance, smoothness and fuel efficiency.

Our turquoise test car, however, came with a five-speed manual that was fluid and flexible and had a short throw very much in keeping with the vehicle’s competitive nature. A manual transmission further squeezes fuel consumption, giving the Paseo city-highway averages of 28 and 34 m.p.g. That translates, incredibly, to about 300 miles between $13 fill-ups of regular unleaded.

Based on the Toyota Tercel chassis–although reskinned, re-engined and obviously reconfigured far from anything resembling such a commuter capsule–the Paseo’s styling cribs lightly from the MR2, which is a pretty exhilarating source to loot. Headlights are flush and molded, wrap-around and a little feline.

The optional rear winglet won’t assist the handlin g, but it certainly is raffish and adds a hatchback look to the rear end. That, however, is pure illusion. The car will be sold only as a two-door with an eight-cubic-foot trunk that converts into a 29-cubic-foot cargo hold by folding down the rear seat backs.

Those rear seats are the standard apology. Use them only for hauling Teddy bears or large enemies. Other passengers should be fed industrial-strength muscle relaxants before being crammed back there.

The Paseo’s cabin is the crucible of the car’s basic economy, so do not look for much beyond basic interior furnishings. Windows are hand-cranked. Seats and door liners are upholstered in polyester tweed with gray mouse fur on some flat surfaces.

No air bags on either side. Seats and side mirrors are hand-operated. Installing sun visors without even a $1.50 vanity mirror is carrying austerity to monastic levels.

The largest luxury is a pair of cup holders. Unfortunately, they are mounted direct y over the ashtrays. Those with all the vices may very well wind up with Marlboro butts in their coffee.

Despite all its enforced abstinence, the Paseo’s interior is not unpleasant. It is fully functional and even displays a certain amount of design savvy in keeping the instrument cluster, heater vents and center console controls simple without falling victim to the cheap and dinky.

Toyota’s technical center in Gardena designed the chassis and suspension geometry. It uses a combination of front MacPherson struts, rear trailing torsion beams and new axle bushings to stiffen against roll. Translation: Here is a versatile platform that will neither rattle the fillings of cautious drivers nor produce damp palms and travel nausea in sportier pilots.

We would have like disc brakes on all four wheels instead of the Paseo’s cost-cutting disc-drum setup. But stopping, even under panic conditions, even without the security of an anti-lock system, was instant and positive–another bonus of that light curb weight.

Front-wheel drive gives the car the anticipated skitters of torque steer. One day, some engineer will tame that particular goblin and front wheels will be restored to biting without flex. Apart from that flash of bad manners, the Paseo’s handling is virtually flawless and certainly among the best of the sport coupes.

It should be noted that all modern sporty cars track true to their steering lines, whether cornering sedately or squirting through freeway traffic. A mechanical lag between dipping the gas pedal and feeling grip on the driving wheels is a thing of the past. No matter how hard the maneuver or how wicked the curve, today’s mini-coupes are flatter and firmer by far, with never a hint of tipping on their roofs.

Paseo’s edge is in coordinating all these advances and advantages into one well-mannered, stable, but nevertheless spirited whole. And without compromising comfort or your personal debtstructure.

From this concert of handling and performance, the Paseo will stimulate and satisfy, which in turn elevates mundane motoring into the driving experience.

All advertising claims considered, you may even love what this Toyota does for you.

1992 Toyota Paseo

The Good Hearty performance for light and young of heart. Concerted handling. Low price, high value. Sips gas by eye-dropper.

The Bad What trunk? What rear seats?

The Ugly Visors sans mirrors.

Cost Base: $9,988. As tested, $12,713 (including air conditioning, alloy wheels, cruise control, moon roof, rear spoiler, sound system upgrade).

Engine Four cylinders, double overhead cams, 16 valves and 1.5 liters developing 100 horsepower.

Type Front-drive, two-door, 2+2 mini-sport coupe.

Performance 0-60 m.p.h., as tested, 9.8 seconds. Top speed, manufacturer’s estimate, 118 m. p.h. Fuel consumption, EPA average, city-highway, 28 and 34 m.p.g.

Curb Weight 2,070 pounds.

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
7 years / less than 85,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12, 000 miles
Dealer certification
160- or 174-point inspections

Consumer reviews

4.5 / 5
Based on 16 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 3.8
Interior 3.8
Performance 4.1
Value 4.6
Exterior 4.0
Reliability 4.6

Most recent

  • Still running!

    I have a 1992 Toyota Paseo and it still runs perfect! However, it only has original 130,000 miles on her today. I'm old now and getting in and out of the car is a pain! This car is for kids! 😄
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Most under-rated old Toyota model

    This was my first car. It was so easy and fun to drive. I absolutely loved it. The car was very reliable and fuel efficient. I really miss it.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best first new car ever!

    This was my first new car. I just got home from the Gulf War, and I was looking for something used. This had just come out. It's basically a very hott tercel. I loved this car, and I drove it hard af. 290k and the engine blew.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Love My Paseo Coupe

    I bought this car and was a special purchase . Never winter driven . No rust 5,000 miles only. Only problem I have is sun hard on the Colour Red. Tried to keep it driven and stored out of elements . Have not seen another one in the city for years . It is my little Red sport coupe and I named her Sherry from the 4 Seasons hit . A real gem and gas mileage is just phenomenal.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • One of the greatest cars ever made

    My 1992 Paseo is 2 years away from being 3 DECADES old. Would like to see any chipped up new car last that long and still look great, run great, and drive great. Wish I could show the pictures. Have done the regular maintenance, changed the water pump, timing belt and clutch at 130,000 miles, on removal none of those parts were broken. It now has 170,000 miles and still runs great . I'd recommend the car over any new car, but they are rare to find as most people keep them. Had a car dealer call and offered 800 for mine, and I said only in your dreams buddy. :-)
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great reliable work car

    This car is a great reliable vehicle for the money, it?s cheap lightweight and very fun to drive (5 speed manual) definitely not very big I?m 5?6 and I even hit my head on the back window if I sit in the back but I?ve got plenty of room up front and I only have one passenger who sits comfortably as well, best little Work Car I?ve ever owned
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Two weeks $20 bucks

    Use this car to drive to work and quick little runs about town. GREAT on Gas. Maintenance is minimal mine turns 25 this month and still has plenty of relative power. Fun to drive
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 45 mpg

    I have had this car since 1997. It has had no major problems at all. The gas milage is between 45 to 50 miles. The body still looks in style after 22years! I will keep it for the next 22 years.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • paseo

    this car is good on gas that about it.i would never buy this car because high cost of repair. the pait on this car peal off.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 1.0
    Interior 1.0
    Performance 1.0
    Value 1.0
    Exterior 1.0
    Reliability 1.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Great first car (I would know)

    This car is indeed my first car and hopefully, it will be with me for a long time because i have some mad love for my Paseo. It has above average gas mileage, sporty classic exterior, clean basic interior, and its fun to drive (-:
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • A good little car

    I've had my 92 paseo for ever my bros mom owned it before I got it but it has been hit by 2 semis and Toyota said it was totaled but I'm still driven it and it still got some xxxxx. I just replaced the stock starter 2 day and it has been sit tin all summer! The rear bumper cover is bungy corded up and it's runnin like a top these little cars just never die!!!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 3.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 4.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • 130k easy

    Seems like the car has no issues at all. It's cheap, fun, good gas mileage..and judging from other reviews this thing should go half a million miles...im hoping for at least another good 5 years....but i think it will go 10.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 1992 Toyota Paseo?

The 1992 Toyota Paseo is available in 1 trim level:

  • Sport (2 styles)

Is the 1992 Toyota Paseo reliable?

The 1992 Toyota Paseo has an average reliability rating of 4.6 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 1992 Toyota Paseo owners.

Is the 1992 Toyota Paseo a good Coupe?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 1992 Toyota Paseo. 93.8% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.5 / 5
Based on 16 reviews
  • Comfort: 3.8
  • Interior: 3.8
  • Performance: 4.1
  • Value: 4.6
  • Exterior: 4.0
  • Reliability: 4.6
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