Did Toyota Chasers come in manual?
Yes. Manual transmissions were offered on certain Toyota Chaser variants, most notably the turbocharged versions, though not every model or market had a manual option.
Overview of transmission options
Across the Chaser lineup, Toyota provided factory manuals primarily on turbocharged variants; non-turbo models were more often automatic. Availability varied by market and year, with Japan and some export markets seeing more frequent manual offerings. In many cases, the manual was a 5-speed unit, paired with a turbo engine, while some early or regional versions used a 4-speed manual.
- Turbocharged Chasers with the turbo engine commonly offered a 5-speed manual gearbox; this pairing is the most documented manual configuration in the Chaser range.
- Naturally aspirated (non-turbo) Chasers were less likely to be found with a manual, though exceptions existed in certain regions or trims.
- Market and year differences affected availability; several late-1990s Chasers in Japan and Australia had factory manual options, while others in Europe or North America were mostly automatic.
In short, if a factory manual Chaser exists, it is most likely among turbo models from the late 1990s era. Always verify the specific car's original transmission with the VIN, build sheet, or service history to confirm.
Generational scope and markets
The strongest association of a factory manual Chaser is with its late-1990s generation, where the turbocharged engine and a 5-speed manual were commonly offered. However, availability depended on market and trim; some early and export-spec cars did not include a manual option. Prospective buyers should be aware that a Chaser with a manual might be rarer outside Japan or Australia.
Buying and verification tips
When shopping for a manual Chaser, use these guidelines to verify authenticity and condition:
- Check for the original manual transmission in the car’s documentation or by inspecting the transmission code on the gearbox and build sheet.
- Inspect the clutch for wear, and test for smooth gear engagement and proper clutch feel during a test drive.
- Look for signs of a swapped gearbox, such as mismatched VINs, unusual service history notes, or suspect mounts/console fittings.
- Review maintenance history for the turbo engine (timing, cooling, boost control), as proper maintenance is crucial for turbo variants.
With careful verification, a factory manual Chaser can be a desirable choice for enthusiasts seeking a traditional rear-wheel-drive sedan with a manual gearbox.
Market reality and examples
In the used-car market today, factory-manual Chasers are frequently highlighted by collectors and enthusiasts, particularly for late-1990s models in the JZX family. Manuals are more common in Japan and Australia, with occasional imports making their way to other regions. As always, verify the origin, trim, and mileage before purchase.
Summary
The Toyota Chaser lineage did include factory manual transmissions, most notably on turbocharged variants with the turbo engine in the late-1990s era. Manuals were not universal across all years or markets, so buyers should confirm the specific car’s original transmission, and be mindful that non-turbo and some export models may have been automatic only. For collectors and drivers who prefer a manual, the manual-Chaser niche remains a recognized part of the model’s history.
Did the Toyota Chaser come in manual?
The Tourer V was equipped with the 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo engine, the most potent offering, while the Tourer S trim received the non-turbo 1JZ-GE; the Tourer package replaced the trim package "GT." Manual transmissions were optional for all engine offerings, from the 1.8-liter 4S-FE and 2.4 turbodiesel 2L-TE up through the ...
Which Toyota models come in manual transmission?
Toyota offers manual transmissions in several models, including the Tacoma, GR Corolla, GR86, and GR Supra. The Tacoma is currently the only truck on the market to still offer a manual, while the GR models cater to performance enthusiasts.
- Toyota Tacoma: The 2025 Tacoma has a 6-speed manual option on the SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road trims.
- Toyota GR Corolla: This performance hatchback comes standard with a 6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT).
- Toyota GR86: The GR86 is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission.
- Toyota GR Supra: Manual transmission is available on certain GR Supra trims.
- Note on older models: Manual transmissions were also available on past models, such as the Corolla, 86, and Tundra, but are no longer offered on their current versions.
Are all Toyota Chasers automatic?
1984-1988 Toyota Chaser Third Generation
This included larger disc brakes and two new 2.5L engines, bringing the total to four. There were still only two transmissions to choose from. This time you had the option of a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.
What transmission comes in JZX100?
R154 transmission
Available now from Driver Motorsports is this 1997 Toyota Chaser JZX100 that features a 1JZ-GTE VVTI engine and an R154 transmission.
