1992 TOYOTA Corolla 3 Doors 1.3L 5MT FWD (88 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Toyota introduced the seventh generation of the Corolla in 1992, and it offered it in several bodywork versions so that it could target more customers.

While the station wagon was mainly developed for families, the three-door hatchback targeted the young generation or those who didn’t have children. Yet, despite the car’s sporty look, it was fitted only with fuel-efficient engines that couldn’t provide the same thrills as other European carmakers.

With a front fascia that didn’t inspire too many people, the three-door Corolla struggled to stay alive on the market. Its slim grille and bland styling were not that attractive. In addition, the corner-mounted turn signals exposed them to small parking bumps and shopping carts. On the other hand, the profile was rightfully made with a slightly ascending beltline and a raked-forward C-pillar. Moreover, the blackened slim B-pillar made it look even sportier. Still, the back of the vehicle with its narrow and rectangular taillights was a far cry from what the hot-hatch segment buyers were looking for.

Inside, the three-dial instrument cluster didn’t feature a tachometer for the base versions but was available at extra cost or standard for the upper trim levels. The rounded shape of the dashboard and the driver-oriented center stack were good ideas, but there was nothing to write home about it. And yet, it could accommodate up to five passengers if those in the back were very close friends.

Under the hood, Toyota tried to convince people with a range of fuel-efficient engines ranging between 75 hp and 114 hp. At the same time, the competitors already offered over 140 ponies for the same price.