Toyota is known for blending reliability with innovation, offering everything from exciting sports cars to sturdy off-roaders. While many models have become classics, some have been discontinued, leaving fans hoping for their comeback. This article revisits those beloved Toyota models that enthusiasts still miss and hope to see return.
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Toyota Supra MKIV (1993-2002)
The fourth-generation Supra is legendary, primarily due to its 2JZ-GTE engine. Internet enthusiasts love it for its performance potential, with many tuning it to produce over 1,000 hp. Its sleek design and appearance in movies like “The Fast and the Furious” also made it iconic.
Toyota MR2 (1984-2007)
This mid-engine sports car is lauded for its balanced handling and lightweight. It went through three generations, each with its own set of fans. The internet misses the affordable mid-engined thrills it provided.
Toyota Celica (1970-2006)
This sporty coupe was known for its handling, affordable price, and stylish design. Its GT-Four (All-Trac Turbo in the US) variant was a rally legend. The internet remembers it fondly as a fun-to-drive, accessible sports car.
Toyota Soarer (1981-2005)
While it might be known as the Lexus SC in some markets, the Soarer was a luxury GT coupe that blended performance with luxury. Online communities particularly praise the twin-turbo 1JZ variant.
Toyota Previa (1990-1997 in the US)
Known for its unique mid-engine design for a minivan, the Previa is loved for its durability, futuristic design, and the availability of a supercharged engine. It’s often celebrated online as one of the most intriguing minivans ever made.
Toyota Crown (1955-present, but not globally)
While not discontinued in Japan, its limited availability elsewhere has made it a missed model. This luxury sedan’s longevity, technology, and consistent quality make it stand out.
Toyota Corolla AE86 (1983-1987)
Famed for its rear-wheel drive and lightweight chassis, it’s adored in drifting communities and was popularized in car culture by the anime “Initial D.” Many wish Toyota would bring back a lightweight, RWD Corolla like the AE86.
Toyota 2000GT (1967-1970)
A classic sports car that showcased Toyota’s capability to compete with European sports cars. Its rarity and beautiful design make it a focal point in many classic car discussions.
Toyota Starlet (1973-1999)
Particularly the RWD variants were compact, lightweight, and fun to drive. Online communities appreciate them for their modification potential and simplicity.
Toyota Cressida (1976-1992)
This rear-wheel-drive sedan was luxury-oriented but had the underpinnings that made it popular among enthusiasts. The internet loves the potential it has for engine swaps, particularly with the 2JZ.
Toyota Chaser/Mark II (1972-2007)
Popular in the JDM scene, these sedans packed powerful engines like the 1JZ and offered rear-wheel drive. They’ve gained international attention on the internet as desirable imports.
Toyota Hilux Surf (1984-2009)
Known as the 4Runner in other markets, the Hilux Surf iterations, especially the third-gen model, have a cult following online for their ruggedness and off-road capabilities.
Toyota FJ Cruiser (2006-2014)
The Toyota FJ Cruiser, inspired by the iconic FJ40 Land Cruisers of the 1960s, was discontinued primarily due to declining sales and stringent emission standards. Known for its distinctive retro style and exceptional off-road capability, it featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 260 hp. Its unique design and rugged durability made it a favorite among adventure seekers. Enthusiasts often express a desire for its return due to its cult status and practicality as a capable off-roader.
Toyota Altezza (1998-2005)
Known internationally as the Lexus IS, the Toyota Altezza was lauded for its balanced rear-wheel-drive chassis and the high-revving Beams engines. It gained cult status, especially the RS200 version with its 2.0-liter inline-four producing 210 hp. Discontinued as Toyota shifted focus to the luxury-oriented Lexus brand globally, fans miss its sporty, understated elegance and exceptional driving dynamics.
Toyota Aristo (1991-2005)
The Toyota Aristo, sold as the Lexus GS outside Japan, was known for its luxurious appointments and powerful engines, including the revered 2JZ-GTE in later models. Discontinued as Lexus became Toyota’s global luxury brand, the Aristo’s blend of power, luxury, and reliability is still celebrated. Enthusiasts reminisce about its performance potential and sophisticated design.
Toyota Will Vi (2000-2001)
The Toyota Will Vi was a retro-styled subcompact car with a unique design that did not resonate with a broad audience, leading to its short production span. With a 1.3-liter engine and distinctive curved styling, it was aimed at young buyers but failed to meet sales expectations. Its quirky design has since gained a cult following, with fans appreciating its uniqueness and rarity.
Toyota Century (1967-2017)
The Toyota Century was a flagship luxury sedan primarily available in Japan, renowned for its refinement and the choice of executives and dignitaries. Powered by a V12 engine in its later models, it represented the pinnacle of Toyota’s craftsmanship. Discontinued in favor of more modern luxury vehicles, the Century is missed for its understated elegance and unmatched comfort.
Toyota Sprinter Trueno (1983-1987)
The Toyota Sprinter Trueno, famous for its appearance in “Initial D,” was a lightweight, sporty coupe beloved for its agility and the iconic flip-up headlights. It featured a 1.6-liter engine that was perfect for tuning. Discontinued as part of Toyota’s consolidation of models under the Corolla brand, the Trueno is still sought after for its fun-to-drive nature and cultural impact.
Toyota Sports 800 (1965-1969)
Toyota’s first production sports car, the Sports 800, was known for its lightweight design and efficient 0.8-liter flat-two engine. With less than 3,800 units produced, it’s a rare gem that showcased Toyota’s early commitment to producing engaging sports cars. It was discontinued as Toyota shifted focus to more commercially viable vehicles, but enthusiasts cherish it for its historical significance and delightful driving experience.
Toyota Carina (1970-2001)
The Toyota Carina was a robust and reliable sedan that shared many components with the Celica, making it popular among those looking for a practical yet sporty vehicle. It featured a range of four-cylinder engines and was known for its durability. Discontinued as Toyota streamlined its global lineup, the Carina is remembered for its balance of functionality and subtle sporty aesthetics, making it a beloved model for family car buyers and enthusiasts alike.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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