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What is the Toyota spade also known as?

There is no official Toyota model named “Spade.” The name does not appear in Toyota’s public catalogs as a production vehicle badge.


When readers encounter the term, it often reflects a regional nickname, an internal development codename, a misreading of another model name, or a third-party badge rather than an official Toyota product. This article reviews what the term might refer to and how to verify it.


Official status and naming


Toyota’s official model lineup, past and present, features names such as Corolla, Camry, RAV4, Land Cruiser, and Prius. The company does not list a production model that goes by the name “Spade” in its official materials, historical registries, or widely used automotive reference sources.


Common sources of confusion


Several explanations could account for the appearance of the term “Spade” in relation to Toyota vehicles. The following bullet points summarize the most plausible origins you may encounter.



  • Regional or market-specific designations that never became official global models.

  • Development codename or internal nickname used during concept or testing that never reached production.

  • Misreading or confusion with phonetically or visually similar names of other Toyota models.

  • Aftermarket badges, dealer-specific branding, or third-party modifications that are not part of Toyota’s official lineup.


In practice, the most likely explanation is that “Spade” is not an official Toyota product name but rather a regional label, a nickname, or a miscommunication.


How to verify potential references


If you encounter a reference to a “Toyota Spade,” consider the following steps to determine what is being described and whether it is legitimate.



  • Check the source context: is it a catalog, a dealership listing, a vintage brochure, or an automotive forum?

  • Look for accompanying model names: if other official Toyota model names appear nearby, “Spade” may be a misreading or a regional alias.

  • Inspect branding details: badges, emblems, or VIN information can reveal the exact model and year.

  • Search by market and era: some regions feature unique model names or limited editions that are not used elsewhere.


When in doubt, consult Toyota’s official historical resources or reputable automotive reference databases specific to the country and time period in question.


Summary


In short, there is no widely recognized Toyota model officially named "Spade." The term is more likely a regional nickname, a development codename, or a misinterpretation rather than a standard Toyota product name. If you can share the country, year, or source of the reference, it may be possible to identify the exact vehicle or clarify the confusion.

What is the other name for the Toyota Spade?


Porte
In July 2012, the Porte was redesigned and the Toyota Spade (Japanese: トヨタ・スペイド, Hepburn: Toyota Supeido) twin model was also introduced, sporting a different front and rear design, as well as a slightly different interior colour.



What is the Toyota Spade known for?


The distinguishing features of the Spade included a large and remote-controlled passenger-side sliding door, a low floor, and a rear door on the driver's side that facilitated access to the rear seats.



Is Toyota Tsusho the same as Toyota?


No, Toyota Tsusho is not the same as Toyota; it is a separate company that is part of the larger Toyota Group. Toyota Tsusho is the group's general trading company, while Toyota Motor Corporation is a separate, separate entity focused on automobile manufacturing. Toyota Tsusho supports the Toyota Group's businesses by handling various trading and investment activities, but it also has diverse interests in many other sectors. 
Toyota

  • Primary function: The main entity that designs, manufactures, and sells automobiles. 
  • Relationship with Toyota Tsusho: Toyota Motor Corporation is the parent company of the Toyota Group, and Toyota Tsusho is one of its members. 

Toyota Tsusho
  • Primary function: A general trading company that supports the Toyota Group and operates in many diverse sectors. 
  • Activities: Handles a wide range of businesses, including trading, manufacturing, and processing of products like automobiles, steel, machinery, and chemicals. 
  • Relationship with Toyota: It was established to support Toyota's automobile business and is an affiliate of Toyota Motor Corporation, with a significant portion of its sales coming from the Toyota Group, but it also operates independently in many other areas. 



What is the difference between Toyota Porte and Toyota Spade?


The Toyota Spade is largely the same as the Toyota Porte save for minor differences in body styling. It aims to address the exterior shortcomings of the Porte which has highly been criticized. The Spade comes with sharper headlights and an angular bumper that give it a much more respectable look.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.