2000 TOYOTA ALTEZZA 2WD
2004 TOYOTA ALTEZZA SXE10 2WD
2003 TOYOTA ALTEZZA TA-GXE10
2005 TOYOTA ALTEZZA TA-GXE10
TOYOTA ALTEZZA GXE10
TOYOTA ALTEZZA GXE10
Buying Guide
The Toyota Altezza, also known as the Lexus IS outside of Japan, is a sporty compact sedan and an entry-level luxury car. The word Altezza is the Italian word for "highness". The first-generation Altezza (codename XE10) was launched in Japan in October 1998 as an entry-level sport model. Car From Japan only sells this Toyota Altezza 1st generation.
Toyota Motor Corporation, or Toyota as we all know, is a Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer headquartered in Toyota City, Aichi, Japan. In 2017, Toyota is the world’s second-largest automotive manufacturer. As a household name worldwide, every Toyota car is of utmost trust for dependability and value for money and thus resale value, especially the proud Toyota Altezza 1st generation, which took the world by storm under the nameplate Lexus IS.
Speaking of money, Altezza used cars as sold by Car From Japan got greatly reasonable prices at US$2,456 to US$2,805 and, older car or cars with higher mileage will got even a lower Toyota Altezza price for you to fit your pocket, down to the incredible US$1,121.
Toyota Altezza: The Last Millenial's Final Big Shot
1. Overview
Overall, the Toyota Altezza is a sporty car designed for luxury, style, and class for those that are looking for a nice car to break them into the world of sports vehicles. The Altezza is sure to make a good impression on whoever rides with you and it’s going to leave all drivers feeling as if they have achieved your their sports car dreams. It got a sleek exterior, bringing it the look of a curvy sports car. The outside is not only striking, but the inside is also classy as well. There is enough room in this four-doored vehicle, as well as high-end cutting-edge technology.
The dashboard comes with a screen, usb ports, a moon roof, and Siri voice recognition along with other types of gadgets that any techno geek would love to have. The steering and handling of this sports car is a highlight. Its speed challenges that of any other entry level-luxury sports cars. If you are looking for speed, the Altezza might be the right one for you. This vehicle definitely knows the way to move quickly and efficiently.
2. Exterior Magnificence
At the very first glance , the Altezza gives you the most satisfying visual treat, just like a real gourmet meal for the eyes of sports enthusiasts. The exterior of the vehicle is designed so trendy and stylish with the unibody chassis. This chassis makes it light enough, resulting in overall cost reduction in long term. The available colors include the basic colors of White, Silver and Black that respectively have ascending rate of price. The classy colors are composed of the passionate Red, the calm Green and the sophisticated Beige.
Here is the Toyota Altezza specs for you to have a better image of the car:
Wheelbase | 2,670 mm (105.1 in) |
Length |
Sedan: 4,400 mm (173.2 in) SportCross: 4,415 mm (173.8 in) |
Width |
Sedan: 1,720 mm (67.7 in) SportCross: 1,725 mm (67.9 in) |
Height |
1,410 mm (55.5 in) 1,440 mm (56.7 in) |
Curb weight |
IS 200: 1,360 kg (2,998 lb) IS 200 SportCross: 1,430 kg (3,153 lb) IS 300 5-Speed: 1,476 kg (3,255 lb) IS 300 E-Shift: 1,490 kg (3,285 lb) IS 300 SportCross: 1,547 kg (3,410 lb) |
The four Alloy Wheels act as an image booster to a whole new level. Roof Rail can be installed for a tougher look as you wish. The Rail on the exterior can make it much more easier to carry further luggage including tents, skating board, surfer and much more... for picnic and party. The different sizes of luggage can easily fit with the outside design. The headlights and taillights are positioned in such angular form that makes foggy night viewing easier than ever. The front grille of Altezza bears the initial “L” badge, whereas the backside has a small extended trunk for much more luggage storage.
3. Interior Comforts
The Toyota Altezza interior will make you feel so obvious that the inside equipment is fully powerful, infotainment fulfilled, cozy and calm. Its power operation is the best of 2 decades ago. For example, the power steering is installed in a way that on minute movement of steering wheel the tires are synchronized for efficient maneuvering while four power windows make smooth transition on a click of button.
The Navigation and TV together can make it happen with ease to view map and tune in to your favorite program. makes drive a. Serene driving experience is ensured by seats made of fine fibers with the temperature control system.
4. Operational & Safety Excellence
Three engine sizes are available for the Altezza:
- The entry level “AS200” model uses a 2-litre six-cylinder engine and a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual.
- The sporty “RS200” uses a high-performance special 2-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual.
- The top AS300 “Gita” model comes with a 3-litre six-cylinder engine with a five-speed automatic.
The 2-litre six-cylinder engine produces 114kW and 195Nm - not up to expectation for an engine of this size. It, however, is very smooth, and is delivered at low engine RPM. The four-speed automatic transmission delivers smart shifts. It is very smooth too and can be shifted into a power mode. Traction control is aimed to reduce the chance of wheelspin. The brakes can perform well.
Here is the Toyota Altezza engine options and transmission types so you can decide on a suitable car for your need:
Engine | Transmission |
2.0 L 3S-GE I4 (RS200) 2.0 L 1G-FE I6 (AS200/IS 200) 3.0 L 2JZ-GE I6 (AS300/IS 300) |
4-speed A47DE/A340H automatic 5-speed W55 manual 5-speed A650E automatic 6-speed J160 manual |
Safety features include driver and anti-lock brakes, traction control and passenger airbags. Side airbags are optional, and it is easy to spot that a car has these, just look for “SRS” tags and plastic panels on the side of the front seats.
5. Performance And Driving Experience
The Altezza is famous for how well it can steer and handle roads. The steering wheel feels perfectly weighted and responsive. There is lots of grip and little body roll. While the ride is firm, it is still comfortable. It is so easy to recognize this is a fun car to drive.
Engine power is enough from a family/sport sedan and top reliability is guaranteed. Fuel economy is reasonable for what you get out of such a engine, because while all other efficient cars go through lots of tune ups, and more chance for mechanical things to go wrong out of your knowledge. Seating position is great, your back and leg would feel comfort even after long ride but not that much if you are tall. The Altezza can deliver lots of power when overtaking.
Visibility is nice to the side and forward, though the raised tail reduces rearward visibility. In case you need a reversing camera, you can buy a unit and fit it to your car by yourself from $50, or have a professional do it for $200.
A Prolific Investment
In conclusion, our collection of first-generation Altezza is completely feels like new, powerful, and much more affordable than any other choice for sports car. Toyota Altezza is an amazing car, but it's getting harder to find a decent one anywhere else due to boy racers trashing them and highly modifying them. If you consider buying Toyota Altezza, Car From Japan experts would highly recommend it, even though Toyota Altezza for sales is nearly 20 years old.