This straightforward, honest little car acquits itself respectably ineveryday driving.
Thanks to its low curb weight, the Paseo's 1.5-liter twin-cam 16-valve
four-cylinder engine delivers surprisingly peppy acceleration, as well
as very good fuel economy on good old unleaded regular. We liked the shift
action of the manual five-speed transmission, which adds to the driving
fun, but even with the optional four-speed automatic the car performs respectably
compared to other small cars.
ASC seems to have done its usual good work in creating this convertible
for Toyota. Although its chassis isn't quite as rigid as the coupe, an
inevitable consequence of removing the roof structure, it has the solid
feel we've come to associate with Toyotas over the years.
It also delivers respectable handling and a sporty but comfortable ride.
This is another area where the Paseo's low weight pays high dividends.
The less weight there is to shift back and forth, the quicker the response
to driver commands.
The combination of crisp steering and prompt responses in avoidance