1990-1992 Toyota Cressida: Road Test

Cressida performance has rated as rather snappy--more than competitive with the car's natural rivals. Gas mileage, on the other hand, earned no prizes. We've averaged 22.2 mpg overall, but just 17 mpg in the city. Cressida owners enjoy refined cruising and smooth revving from the inline 6-cylinder engine, which runs very quietly. The automatic transmission delivers prompt, smooth shifts at all speeds. This Cressida handles with some agility, and the back end hugs the road tightly through corners. Braking is exceptionally good with the optional antilock system, and steering is crisp and responsive. Cressida tracks straight and true on the highway. On the down side, rear-wheel drive translates to poor wet-weather traction, though grip is predictable most of the time. A firm but supple highway ride comes with little pitching and rolling. However, the size and weight of the Cressida prevent it from having sports-carlike moves. Conservative, upright styling does not translate into an abundance of usable passenger room. Trunk space is skimpy, compared to the competition, and the rear seats do not fold down to increase cargo space. Except for the slide-out climate control panel of 1990 models, and duplicate sound-system controls that put too many buttons on the dashboard, Cressida's interior brings no complaints. Simple, feather-touch controls help make driving easy, seats are comfortable, and outward visibility is good.

Value for the Money
Toyota's well-equipped flagship of the past delivers lots of luxury in a capable sedan, widely known for reliability and happy owners.