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Used 1997 Toyota Paseo Consumer Reviews

4.4 out of 5 stars
38 reviews

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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1997 Paseo, so we've included reviews for other years of the Paseo since its last redesign.

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Pros
Cons
4.63 out of 5 stars

Still runs like new at 112K and counting

Mike S., 03/31/2005
1996 Toyota Paseo 2dr Coupe
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car at 39K miles and now 5 years and at 112K the costliest single expense was the timing belt replacement at 68K (routine). Other than brake pads, regular oil changes, and other regular consumables I have had nothing go wrong on this car. It's always started regardless of the weather or how long it's been sitting (max 15 days with no start up). Handles well up to 85mph - great in snow - handles well on curves - rear seat is a shelf but for a single commuter looking for a somewhat sporty ride this is it. Only negative comment would be for prospective drivers over 6'3" - the top of your head will be pressed on the roof - 35 mpg when gas is $2+/gallon it might be worth it!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Fun little car

Doug, 12/03/2004
1997 Toyota Paseo 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I had been looking to buy a convertible that would be both fun yet somewhat practical. The Paseo fit the bit (over a miata... no back seat). The car is fun to drive, peppy enough in commuter driving and on the weekends, and easy at the gas station. Insurance was also a pleasant surprise. Great car, could not be much happier (ok, 20 more horses would be ok...).

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5 out of 5 stars

Last forever

Mike, 03/20/2016
updated 03/21/2018
1996 Toyota Paseo 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Bought the car with 206,000 miles, change the starter and clutch. All in all, this car is very reliable for a point a point b car. Very cheap to maintain. Changed timing belt,all head cover gaskets, water pump, crank seal, cam seal, 02 sensor upper, oil changed, v belts, and anti freeze coolant. Car still runs strong. I expect the car to go 400k miles. Issue with the car is the erratic idle with check engine light on, fixed the issue 8months ago. Now it's back. Lol

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

The Paseo 5 stars

Summer-time, 10/29/2022
1996 Toyota Paseo 2dr Coupe
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought the can in 1998 with 7500 miles !!! Today nov 1st 2022 the car has 342,250 miles (still go strong enough) serv Oil change every 3k Brakes And gasoline

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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3 out of 5 stars

Terrible

Bryce S, 06/05/2003
1996 Toyota Paseo 2dr Coupe
0 of 2 people found this review helpful

The Toy Paseo is nothing short of slow. This is definitely a car to get you from point A to B and back again, and not much else. Great handling was paired with terrible performance. You wont reach 60 by the end of an on- ramp. There's very little trunk space, and it is extremely cramped for passengers in the back seat. Toyota slapped this car together in a hurry- I replaced the engine at 99k miles, and have spent a good $3000 on other engine repairs. Insurance charges for a sports car, although this wont top 110.

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