The 1990 Toyota Tercel saw a few changes for the model year, most notably the discontinuation of the five-door hatchback and the wagon, which left only the three door hatchback and the coupe. The four-wheel drive option was also discontinued.

The 1990 Tercel was available in four trim levels: the standard coupe and liftback, the EZ liftback and the DLX coupe. The only available engine was a 1.5-liter 78-horsepower four cylinder. Because of its small size, the Tercel got excellent gas mileage: about 30 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

1990 Tercel owners say their cars are ugly, but they love them anyway. Many drivers claim to abuse their cars in various ways, but the 1990 Toyota Tercel keeps on going. Other owners, however, caution that the Tercel requires diligent maintenance, but with proper care will run for a very long time. Other complaints include a tendency towards carbon build-up, which requires premium gas to remedy.