Toyota Carina E Hatchback 1.8 CD 5d (1997/P) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
They don't cost that much now and it is definitely very good value for money. I've driven more expensive cars that are not as good to drive as the Carina.
Costs
Very economical. My 1.8 engine can sometimes give up to 550 miles on one single tank which is about 45mpg overall, which of course is amazing for the size of the car. Insurance is not bad either. Repair bills are good too.
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On the road
Driving
Handling is reasonable, but not sporty enough. Offers little feedback and has little feel. But it is well possible to throw the car round on twisty country roads. The brakes are pretty good. Ride quality is excellent provided the tyres aren't too worn.
Performance
Around town it's fine, but needs revvving which in turns hurts the economy. The lack of torque can be a serious problem sometimes especially on motorway gradients. But if you really boot it, it will move.
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Living with it
Reliability
Incredible. Not a single breakdown or failure to start in 40,000 miles. Quite amazing. Bomb proof even. Mileage means nothing to these cars. Mine has done 117k miles and still drives like new.
Image
Not too bad, but not too good either. Can look quite sporty from some angles, but you're not gonna be attracting too much attention in one of these.
Comfort
Very comfortable on long and short journeys. Lumbar support on the drivers seat is very effective. Seats wear well too.
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Security and Service
Security
No problems yet. Its got an alarm and immobiliser too. It's quite decent.
Service
There's no need to take it to Toyota just have a regular oil/ filter change, spark plug change and that's all it needs.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
None
Other
None
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes