The Toyota Chaser History Throughout The Year

Thinking about the JDM vehicles, some car enthusiasts will come to mind with iconic names such as Nisan Skyline or Mazda RX-7. But emerging in the JDM world is another legend called Toyota Chaser.

Owning a legendary engine, reliability, and high performance, the Chaser is well-chosen for any drift enthusiast. Now, If it’s the first time you’ve heard about the Toyota Chaser, let’s take a tour of the Toyota Chaser history to understand more about this legendary model. 

Throughout Toyota Chaser History

For many JDM fans, the Toyota Chaser is known as a legendary status so understanding the Chaser’s history will know why the Chaser got this reputation and also broaden your knowledge of the JDM culture. Don’t wait too long, let’s start the Chaser’s story: 

First generation (1977-1980): A legend was born

The Toyota Chaser is a mid-size car manufactured by Japanese automaker – Toyota in 1977 to replace its elder – Toyota Cressida with the chassis codes X30, X31, and X40.

At that time, the Chaser was known as a “triplet sedan” because it shared the platform with the Cressida and Mark II. These models were powered by a range of engine options that could meet directly with driving enthusiasts:

• 1.8 L 3T-U I4 (TX30)
• 1.8 L 13T-U I4 (TX40)
• 2.0 L 18R-U I4 (RX30/31)
• 2.0 L 21R-C/U I4 (RX40/41)
• 2.0 L M-EU I6 (MX30/40/41)

The early Chaser was equipped with the M-EU engine standard with multi-port electronic fuel injection (MFI). Generally, the X30/X40 has a design similar to the Toyota Mark II, with a wider front grille and without parking lights.

Additionally, the first models offered a small spoiler option on some trims adding more to the sporty look, although in the late 70s, the spoiler was not as popular as today. 

Second generation (1980-1984)

The next chapter of the Toyota Chaser started with the introduction of X60 models in October 1980 with two versions: a 4-door sedan and a 4-door pillared hardtop sedan.

The boxy design in the previous generation was replaced by the more aerodynamic shapes in car design in the second generation with rectangular headlights which create a sporty and modern look.

The X60’s interior had been improved by equipping soundproofing and ventilation combined with a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support. 

Under the hood, the second-generation Chaser offered a range of engine options including the petrol and diesel engines. In 1984, Toyota added a new engine family name for 1G-GEU twin cam, called LASREα (lightweight, advanced, super response, and engine). 

Third generation (1984-1988)

The third generation of the Chaser started in 1984 with the code name X70. The hardtop body style was the only choice in the third generation.

Overall, the body style was slightly smaller than the Toyota Cresta and Mark II but a more sporty design and performance-focused while still retaining the luxurious interior and outstanding features of the Toyota Cresta. 

One of the highlight features of the X70 versions was the appearance of the TEMS (Toyota Electronic Modulated Suspension) suspension system. This innovative suspension offered drivers a balance of comfort and performance.

It could enhance handling by reducing body roll during cornering and improve ride quality by absorbing bumps and road imperfections. The third generation was only provided with a 5-speed manual transmission and 3 types of 4-speed automatic transmission named ECT-S.

In October 1985, the sulfurous 1G-GTEU twin turbo was offered in the version “GT TWIN TURBO” and this was also one of the most powerful engines at that time with power of up to 185 hp. 

Fourth generation (1988-1992): The legend 1JZ-GTE engine

The Toyota Chaser stepped into the fourth generation in August 1988. This generation witnessed the Chaser reach its success as a performance icon. The GT Twin Turbo model – powered by the 1G-GTE engine was the most powerful version at that time with a capacity of 210PS at 6200 rpm. The Toyota Chaser interior continued its evolution towards a cockpit-like environment while maintaining the bold and aggressive aesthetics introduced earlier.

However, the true star of the X80 series was under the hood with the development of the legendary 1JZ-GTE engine for the GT Twin Turbo in August 1990. It’s one of the masterpieces of the Toyota Chaser engine throughout the development process.

This powerhouse offered exhilarating acceleration and responsiveness with the capability of 280 PS at 6200 rpm and the maximum horsepower was still under the Japanese regulations in this period. 

Fifth generation (1992-1996): The golden age

The year 1992 marked the arrival of the X90 Chaser (the fifth generation) with more engine power and a larger body. The X90 owned an aerodynamic and curvaceous look and not too muscular aesthetics compared to the previous generations. 

However, the dimensions of these models exceeded the maximum limit under Japanese Government regulations of the dimension so which means that drivers might pay more taxes annually and this was also the disadvantage contributing to decreased sales of these versions.  

The legendary 1JZ-GTE engine – the most powerful offering remained the heart and soul of the X90 Chaser which continued to deliver high performance and quick responsiveness, with some models boasting even higher horsepower figures than previous generations.

Manual transmissions were available for all engine versions combined with the traditional Macpherson strut front suspension. Additionally, in this generation, the suspension was also added to double wishbone technology. 

Sixth generation (1996-2001): A Farewell to a Legend

The sixth generation (X100) was presented in September 1996 and wrapped up the Chaser’s production in 2001. While the design underwent further refinement, the essence of the Chaser – thrilling performance – remained firmly intact. 

In this generation, the Toyota Chaser came up with two lineups: Avante and Tourer trims while the Avante most focused on the luxury model, the Tourer was mainly on sporty models.

The i-Four all-wheel-drive was the new platform applied for the Avante lineup combined with the 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission which contributed to the sharp handling characteristics of the X100 Chaser. 

In 2001, the Toyota Chaser ended its production and was replaced by a new model – Toyota Verossa, marking the legendary period.

In Conclusion

The Toyota Chaser’s story might have concluded in 2001, but its legacy endures – represents a unique chapter in Japanese automotive history.

We’ve gone through all Toyota Chaser generations in this article so which generations had the most impression on you?