How many miles per gallon does a 1999 Toyota Tercel get?
In general, a 1999 Toyota Tercel delivers roughly 34–38 miles per gallon (MPG) combined, depending on the drivetrain and conditions. This article outlines the EPA-estimated figures for common US-market configurations and what drivers typically see in everyday use.
EPA estimates by transmission
The following figures reflect EPA estimates for typical US-market 1999 Tercel models, showing how a manual versus automatic transmission can influence efficiency.
- 5-speed manual transmission: about 34 mpg city / 40 mpg highway; about 37–38 mpg combined.
- 4-speed automatic transmission: about 31 mpg city / 38–39 mpg highway; about 34–35 mpg combined.
These numbers are representative and can vary with maintenance, tire condition, driving style, and payload.
Real-world expectations
In everyday driving, many owners report mid-30s to low-40s MPG on highway trips, with city driving yielding lower numbers. With good maintenance and lighter loads, highway efficiency can approach the upper end of the range.
- Typical combined mileage observed: roughly 34–38 MPG.
- Best-case highway mileage, with careful driving, can push toward or above 40 MPG.
Note that these figures are approximate; exact numbers can vary by market, trim, and vehicle condition. For precise ratings, consult fueleconomy.gov or the VIN-specific data for your car.
Factors affecting MPG
Several practical factors influence MPG on a 1999 Tercel, including maintenance, tire choice and condition, driving style, climate, and load. Regular maintenance—such as replacing spark plugs, maintaining a clean air filter, keeping tires inflated to recommended pressures, and ensuring proper alignment—helps preserve efficiency. Smooth, steady driving with gradual accelerations typically yields better mileage than aggressive driving.
In summary, the 1999 Toyota Tercel’s MPG generally sits in the mid-30s range, with the manual transmission often delivering slightly higher figures than the automatic, particularly on highway runs. Real-world results depend on condition and driving habits.
Summary
Estimated MPG for the 1999 Toyota Tercel is typically in the mid-30s MPG combined (roughly 34–38 MPG), with the manual transmission tending to be a bit more fuel-efficient than the automatic. For precise ratings, check fueleconomy.gov and your vehicle’s documentation, and maintain the car to sustain efficiency.
Is the Toyota Tercel fuel efficient?
The unsung hero of my collection, 1996 toyota tercel, last 4 speed manual sold in the US, I get over 40 mpg, 0 problems for 50,000 miles.
What size engine is in the 1999 Toyota Tercel?
Key specifications of Toyota Tercel
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 1500 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 4 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
What problems are common in 1999 tercels?
Top Toyota Tercel Problems
- Automatic Transmission May Not Shift Correctly at High Mileages.
- Failed Emissions Test Due to Blocked EGR System.
- Vehicle Won't Crank Due To Starter.
- Ignition Coil Inside Distributor May Fail.
- Worn Shift Bushings Will Cause Manual Transmission to Pop Out of Gear.
Why did Toyota stop making the Tercel?
Toyota stopped making the Tercel primarily because its target market, the subcompact segment, declined in the United States, and newer models like the Echo and Yaris replaced it. The subcompact car's main selling points of being inexpensive and fuel-efficient were eroded by new safety and technology requirements that increased costs, while larger cars like hybrids began to offer comparable fuel economy at a competitive price.
- Erosion of the subcompact market: The market for subcompact cars in the US diminished because features like standard airbags and backup cameras made them less inexpensive to build.
- Competition from other models: Larger, more comfortable, and more fuel-efficient hybrid sedans and SUVs began to compete directly with subcompacts on fuel economy, offering more features for a similar price.
- Replacement by newer models: The Tercel was replaced in the US market by the Toyota Echo in 1998, which was later followed by the Yaris. The Yaris was eventually discontinued in the US in 2020, largely due to slow sales.
- Profitability: The combination of these factors made it less profitable for Toyota to continue selling subcompacts in the US market.
