The Tercel interior can be an exciting study in space maximization. Although the '95 model's interior is slightly smaller than its predecessor's, there is added headroom for both front and rear passengers. Also, there are many new and improved features that create a comfortable and ergonomically pleasing automotive environment.
The Tercel is fully carpeted and includes comfortable fabric-covered, high-back seats with fixed headrests on the DX model; there are vinyl seats on the base Tercel. New on 4-door models are adjustable shoulder-belt anchor points for front-seat occupants and child-protection rear door locks.
Dual remote outside mirror controls are not power and we found them somewhat imprecise to set. On the plus side, the tercel's relatively wide door openings and seat design do allow for easy entry and exit, and there are three assist grip handles on the DX model.
All models have a recessed cupholder and a full center console with storage for cassettes and CDs.
The dual cupholder unit available on the DX model is a tight fit when extended from its location in front of the shift lever, but it serves the purpose. An additional cupholder for rear occupants is recessed into the storage unit between the front seats, and the 2-door coupe model has a rear-seat quarter trim pocket that doubles as a cupholder.
Storage is available in a variety of small, but thoughtfully designed, spaces. Map pockets are located on the doors; other storage units include a good-sized well between the front seats, a small unit in the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel and a recessed unit on top of the dash.
The trunk's cargo capacity of 9.3 cu. ft. is enhanced by the DX's optional 60/40 fold-down split rear seat; however, trunk access is somewhat limited by the angle of the rear deck lid. The spare tire and tire-changing tools are easy to get to.
Our test vehicle put in a solid performance on the road. The new 4-cylinder engine delivered enough horsepower and torque to make the Tercel surprisingly fun to drive on the highway. And around town, its improved handling and turning radius made it easy for us to maneuver in and out of traffic and parking lots.
Our TErcel's improved suspension system, along with its tires and optional power-assist steering, worked in concert to deliver a smooth, controlled ride over a variety of road surfaces, including potholes. There were no shakes or rattles, leading us to believe that the measures taken to deliver a steady, well-balanced vehicle without vibration were successful.
There were some low points in our test. Despite sound-deadening improvements, we found engine and road noise not only audible but sometimes distracting. And although front and peripheral visibility was excellent, our rear view was compromised. Due to the small glass in the Tercel rear window, the rear crossbar and the ceiling are included in the interior rearview mirror's reflection. Likewise, small glass ovals on the outside mirrors resulted in a portholelike view of vehicles and the road behind.
But fuel economy is a big plus. Although actual mileage varies with road conditions and driving habits, the tercel's average EPA rating is 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. We got 45 mpg on the highway with our DX.