Automobiles Review

Tag: Toyota

  • Watch West Coast Customs “Remix” the Toyota Sienna [VIDEO]

    West Coast Customs released a video of their future project, where they transform a Toyota Sienna entirely. In fact, if you been following them or this year’s SEMA show, the car on the verge is the music-powered Sienna:Remix. For this project, the tuners have collaborated with SiriusXM. The episode and the entire transformation were aired yesterday, on 14th of December, on FOX Sports 2.

    The founder and CEO Ryan Friedlinghaus and his crew were shown in the building process of the ultimate personalized Sienna. The design of the vehicle aimed at highlighting at the unexpected ways drivers are energized by music every day.

    The “remixed” Sienna includes fully functional DJ booth inside it as well as a 360-degree A/V column that can rise out of the roof. The latter includes two 40-inch LCD monitors, four subwoofers,16 speakers and two LED bars. The audio system also received five amplifiers and two 32-band equalizers.

    With this “Swagger Wagon”, West Coast Customs and SiriusXM have undoubtedly shown how families using this Toyota model can transform parenting into adventure. In fact, this is an adventure that features a soundtrack.

    If you have missed the TV episode, there is good news for you. The vehicle is going to tour across the United States and will have stops at cultural and music festivals, auto shows and sports events.

    httpv://youtu.be/GIxtsO-FUYg

    2015 Toyota Sienna Remix
    2015 Toyota Sienna Remix
    2015 Toyota Sienna Remix

    Video Source: YouTube 

    Source: Toyota

  • The New Toyota Aygo Enhanced by Eibach

    The all-new Toyota Aygo receives some tiny improvements which have a major impact on the car. The Eibach Pro-Kit and Pro-Spacer stand for dynamism, a lot of action and more confident look attributed to the car. All Eibach Suspension Components are available through authorized dealer. They also come with a high-quality corrosion protection and are TÜV-certified.

    With the installation of the Eibach Pro-Kit Performance Springs, cruising around the city transforms into a fun and more pleasurable driving experience. What is more, they give the Toyota Aygo a refreshed look. Due to the lowering of the center of gravity, the 3.46m short body exhibits a certain dynamic appeal. Precisely, the Pro-Kit is part of the Eibach B12 Pro-Kit and it contributes to the refinement of the car by offering:

    • exceptional-performance handling;
    • lower center of gravity by lowering the vehicle up to 40 mm (depending on car model)
    • innovative spring design and sufficient ride quality.

    The Eibach Pro-Spacer Wheel Spacers focus on the Aygo’s X-front and outline the self-confidence of the model from all angles. Pro-Spacer, is created from high-tensile-strength aluminum alloy and adds up to the outstanding handling and appearance of the Toyota Aygo. It also offers:

    • exact fitment by implementing minimal production tolerances which results in excellent wheel balance;
    • all applications tested in rigid durability- and fatigue tests;
    • high-grade corrosion protection through a special coating process (salt spray test according to DIN 50021);
    • considerable weight advantage compared to wheel spacers made from steel;

    2014 Eibach Toyota Aygo
    2014 Eibach Toyota Aygo

    Source: Eibach

  • Toyota Teases 2016 Tacoma

    2016-Toyota-Tacoma-THUMBToyota will roll out the 2016 Tacoma model at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The event will start on 12th of January and this is where we will get more details around the vehicle since they are extremely scarce. What the Japanese company has just told us is that the new vehicle will raise the bar again and take everything to the next level.

    2016 Tacoma is readied to set new benchmark for midsize pickups … in terms of performance. Thanks to its heritage of confident capability and unbreakable attitude, this new model promises more off-road prowess than ever!

    The teaser image released along the minute information, tells us also very little. We see the Tacoma “bathing” in mud. We can actually see only the tailgate of the truck and the left taillight. The new Tacoma will also feature its name on the tailgate as well as the signification that it has 4×4 driving configuration.

    We assume the new model will look like all the new midsize trucks, especially like those recently introduced TRD Pro Series. At last, there will be two key pickup trucks to be unveiled. Next to the 2016 Tacoma, Detroit will also celebrate the introduction of the powerful 2016 Nissan Titan.

    The adventure has just begun.

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Releases Four-Wheel Drive RAV4 Edition-S

    Toyota-RAV4-Edition-S-THUMBToyota is releasing a RAV4 Edition-S which comes enhanced with additional equipment. The sad news is that the model will be offered only in Germany. As a standard, the vehicle comes equipped with four-wheel drive. Other optically viable identification characteristics are the silver roof rails, a hinted under-ride guard, as well as the front and rear chrome strips on the side of the vehicle. Very nice accents are also the 18-inch alloy wheels.

    The car has been based on the “Edition” equipment line. This means that it adds two-zone climate control as well as Toyota Smart Key system for keyless opening and closing of the vehicle. A special technology feature is also the electrically opening tailgate “Easy Load”.

    Toyota Touch with color 6.1-inch touchscreen is the multimedia system which will make driver’s life easier. There is also featured USB port and Bluetooth hands-free.

    Driver and passenger will enjoy the comfort of the special seats which include optimum support with pronounced side bolsters and shoulder support. Privacy is ensured with the tinted rear windows.

    When it comes to engine, this Toyota model can be equipped with the 2.0-liter D-4D diesel engine or the Valvematic petrol unit with two liter displacement. The first one produces 124 horsepower (91 kW) or 150 hp (110 kW), while the second one generates 151 hp (111 kW).  Their power is transmitted onto the road via a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.

    Source: Toyota

  • New Year, New Technology Equipment for Toyota Prius+

    Fresh look, top-level technological advancements, improved safety and quality is what the 2015 Toyota Prius+ is offering now. The car manufacturer, Toyota, took the wraps off the refined Prius+ at the Paris motor show and with the wraps any doubts related to the standards of the car also fell off . The restyled seven-seat hybrid depicted a new model line-up, Excel Plus, which joined the established Icon and Excel models.

    All versions are equipped with LED headlamps, new LED rear light clusters and an edgier front-end treatment. The entry level Icon model receives the latest Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio and reversing camera, as well as a tyre pressure warning system. The interior is redisigned too. There is an altered center console, dark trim finish and perfected seat  fabrics. A color TFT screen has been added to the upper instrument panel too.

    Moreover, the Toyota Touch 2 with Go system is available on Excel and Excel Plus models. It contributes to the technological comfort of the cars with navigation and connectivity functions, including access to live traffic information. In addition, there is also a touchscreen, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, reversing camera, and a tyre pressure warning system. Toyota’s Pre-Crash Safety system is included too and it helps the driver avoid a collision or reduces the consequences if an impact actually occurs.

    Parking becomes easier than ever thanks to the integrate Toyota Intelligent Parking Assist. It scans free parking spaces and provides automatic steering which directs the Prius+ when if finds an available parking spot.

    Prius+ retains its highly efficient hybrid powertrain, which produces combined cycle performance figures of 68.9mpg and (road tax-exempt) 96g/km when fitted with 16-inch wheels and 64.2mpg and 101g/km with 17-inch wheels.

    The arrival of the new 2015 Prius+ is also marked by the addition of two new metallic paint options: Sienna Bronze and Galaxy Black.

    2015 Toyota Prius Plus
    2015 Toyota Prius Plus
    2015 Toyota Prius Plus
    2015 Toyota Prius Plus
    2015 Toyota Prius Plus

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Introduces Next-Gen Integrated Safety Technology [VIDEO]

    Toyota-Integrated-Safety-Technology-THUMBToyota’s next-generation Integrated Safety Technology was revealed today. It comprises of a lot of smart new technologies and systems which aim to deliver safety driving and are planned to be applied in company’s future vehicles. These include vehicle-to-infrastructure and communications for safer manoeuvres, hazard alerts and smarter as well as more efficient cruise control driving; and new adaptive LED headlight arrays for better night-time illumination. These technologies together with advanced active safety packages are scheduled to be officially rolled out from 2015 for new models.

    All of these new features were just announced at a safety seminar in Toyota City. The company is also creating Safety Sense active safety packages, which are tailored to suit different size vehicles prepared to be introduced by the end of 2017.

    Vehicle-infrastructure and vehicle-vehicle communications use wireless frequency reserved for Integrated Traffic System (ITS) services. The instance here is simple: when one arrives at junction with no clear view, sensors above the road detect on-coming traffic or pedestrians and send the information to the car (vehicle-to-infrastructure system).

    In addition, those vehicles approaching the intersection will signal that they are there with the vehicle-to-vehicle link, thus activating visual and audio warnings. Communicating Radar Cruise Control is the next technology developed by Toyota that utilizes vehicle-to-vehicle communication.

    This one makes it easier for preceding and following vehicles to keep a safe distance apart. How it works? It has forward-facing millimetre-wave radar which monitors the distance between the vehicle and this ahead, their approximate speed and the acceleration/deceleration of the car in front.

    LED Array Adaptive High Beam comes offering better night-time illumination. The system utilizes multiple, independently controlled LEDs arranged in a single row. The effect: a wider illumination without dazzling drivers of on-coming or preceding vehicles. In addition, it can light up the gaps between cars ahead and those approaching. This next-gen technology will be featured in Toyota’s Safety Sense active safety package.

    Starting from next year, the Japanese company will launch a new set of active safety technologies. They were designed to help prevent or mitigate collisions, and will be offered in two Toyota Safety Sense packages: C and P for mid-size and larger vehicles respectively.

    More importantly, they will bring together several active safety technologies, including the Pre-Crash Safety system, Lane Keep Assist and automatic high beam. Precisely, the C package utilizes laser radar, while the P package a millimetre-wave radar, each of which is combined with a camera.

    At last, there is a separate active safety package called Lexus Safety System+. It will include the new Road Sign Assist function, which recognizes speed limits and road signs when traveling overseas, presenting the information on the driver’s instrument display.

    httpv://vimeo.com/112915300

    Video Source: Vimeo

    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ and its “Dark Side”

    The Toyota Corolla RZ special edition has launched in Australia, demonstrating certain darkness, edginess and value-added specifications.

    The Corolla RZ is powered by 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that is known from the rest of the line-up. It generates 138 hp (103 kW) and 173 Nm (127 lb-ft.) of maximum torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a MultiDrive S-CVT automatic transmission which offers a sequential seven-speed Sport mode.

    Perhaps the most striking part about the exterior of the new Toyota is the set of the racy 16-inch black gloss alloy wheels which perfectly suit the black caps that bear the Toyota emblem. Other enhancements include lower grille edge, lower rear bumper, and the panel beneath the tailgate glass all of which complete the sporty look of the car.

    The “dark side” of 2015 Toyota Corolla RZ  is revealed through an intensive choice of the black color which is the color chosen for the front bumper mouldings and the leading edge at the bottom of the trapezoidal lower grille. Still, there are six exterior colors available – Wildfire, Inferno, Tidal Blue, Crystal Pearl, Silver Pearl and Positano Bronze.

    The interior is equipped with “RZ” branded mats for the driver and front passenger. But this is not all of course. The cabin benefits from Corolla hatch regulars including six-speaker audio, cruise control, Bluetooth®^connectivity, air-conditioning and seatbelt warning alarm for all five seats. There is also a satellite navigation which is accessible via 6.1-inch touch-screen display.

    The special edition small car joins the Camry RZ, thus becoming the second RZ in Toyota Australia’s line-up.

    Corolla RZ prices
    (including optional paint)
    Manual – $22,290
    CVT auto – $24,540

    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ
    2015 Toyota Corolla RZ

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Mirai Achieves Maximum Power Well Above 100kW

    Only couple of days ago Toyota announced its ground-breaking Toyota Mirai Fuel Cell Car without giving too much information about it. Now we already have the specific characteristics of the car so you will know what to expect out of it.

    First of all, Toyota Mirai indicates the beginning of a new era of vehicles. Since it is all about better future in a clean world and environment, the car uses hydrogen to produce electric power which results in delivering better environmental performance. Still though the convenience and the ultimate driving pleasure are not sacrificed. Drivers still receive the best possible efficiency and quality.

    The new Toyota uses the Toyota Fuel Cell System (TFCS) that combines fuel cell and hybrid technologies. It includes Toyota’s new proprietary fuel cell stack and high-pressure hydrogen tanks. The TFCS is more energy efficient than internal combustion engines and emits no CO2 or pollutants.

    Moreover, the hydrogen-powered sedan’s stack has a maximum power output of 153 bhp (114kW) and a maximum torque of 335 Nm (247 ft-lbf). The 3D fine mesh flow channels enhance the efficiency of the car’s electricity generation and ensure uniform generation on the cell surfaces. As a result, this provides the FC stack with compact dimensions, excellent performance and a world-leading power output density estimated at 3.1kW/L. The electric motor is driven by Nickel-metal hydride battery.

    The exterior of the Toyota Mirai emphasis on its individuality and sophistication. Even the headlights present high-tech luxury. They gain ultra-thin profile and an in-line arrangement of four LED lights, along with visible heat sinks and other optical components. The trapezoidal shape of the rear profile extends from the license plate surround and continues to the bottom corners of the bumper and out towards the 17-inch aluminium wheels.

    Inside the car encompasses a full capacity of balanced style and quietness. The sound absorbing systems and noise-reducing glass for the windscreen and door windows add to the electric motor which works with impressive quietness. The front seats use an integrated cover/seat foaming process to ensure better body fit and hold. Furthermore, the central meter cluster placed on the top of the instrument panel has a speedometer and a multi-information display presented on a high-definition 4.2-inch liquid crystal TFT screen. Customers can choose from three different interior colors, including Warm White.

    Toyota Mirai 2015
    Toyota Mirai 2015
    Toyota Mirai 2015
    Toyota Mirai 2015

    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Toyota Sienna Receives a SpongeBob Movie-themed Look

    I will allow myself to use a quote from SpongeBob Squarepants himself: “hahahahahah” (I almost shed a tear here).

    Toyota has once again teamed up with Nickelodeon studios to create a 2015 Sienna minivan that is inspired by the upcoming “SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water.” The car will have its official premiere at 2014 LA Auto Show this week. It is definitely unique, fun and unconventional. It is impossible to describe it in a different way. This Toyota is an absolute ice-breaker and can make everyone laugh. Or at least smile.

    The SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna will be rolled out on a cross-country promotional tour leading up to The SpongeBob Movie’s premiere on the 6th of February, 2015. The tour will follow different family-friendly locations like some Bass Pro Shops across the US, Nickelodeon Suites Resort, Orlando, Fla.; Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America, Minneapolis, Minn.; the Chicago Auto Show, Chicago, Ill.; and, finally, the New York Auto Show, New York, NY.

    This one-of-a-kind Toyota has a custom three-dimensional SpongeBob SquarePants exterior, complete with the character’s Superhero Incredibubble mask. For a full amazement, the latter blows real bubbles at the top of the car. The interior features seatings inspired by each of SpongeBob’s Bikini Bottom friends. There is also a wood-grain dashboard, a custom Captain’s steering wheel, a blue-sky head liner and a sand-inspired floor.

    The initial 2015 Toyota Sienna made its debut earlier this year. The car comes with a number of improvements such as refreshed exterior styling packed with added safety, convenience, multi-media features and many more.

    SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna
    SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna
    SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna
    SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna
    SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna
    SpongeBob Movie-themed 2015 Toyota Sienna

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota ‘Mirai’: A Vision From the Future

    The confidence and enthusiasm with which the Toyota executives speak about alternative fuels and vehicles really exemplify their aspiration and ambition of achieving something ground-breaking that will set totally innovative benchmarks in the automobile market.

    With the announcement of Toyota’s exceptional fuel cell vehicle titled ‘Mirai’, which translated from Japanese literally means ‘future’, the manufacturer plants a cardinal turning point for the automotive industry. With the launch of the car comes the promise of a safer, greener and easier world. The cutting-edge vehicle arrives with no compromises and it knows no boundaries. It has the cruising range of a normal saloon and can be refuelled in less than five minutes. The only emission that comes out is water vapor. The unconventional sedan with its bizarre look is the production version of the FCV Concept, which Toyota released at the Tokyo Motor Show last year.

    The new Mirai represents a bold step into a more convenient future. It is absolutely environmentally-friendly car which can reduce our dependence on oil and decrease harm to the environment. The vehicle is said to run on hydrogen that can be produced from pretty much anything. Impressive as it is, Toyota Mirai has a fuel cell that creates so much electricity which can be enough to power a whole house.

    Toyota’s new creation is purpose-built around a fuel-cell stack which transforms compressed hydrogen gas into electricity. In consequence, the electricity is congested in batteries and is further used to power a motor that spurs on the front wheels.

    The car will cost the equivalent of around $69,000 in Japan. Despite the fact that the U.S. pricing has not been officially announced yet, there are suppositions that the price will be around $50,000.

    2015 Toyota Mirai
    2015 Toyota Mirai
    2015 Toyota Mirai

    Source: Toyota

  • Scion iM Concept is an Edgy Auris Debuting in L.A.

    Scion-iM-Concept-THUMBDo you remember when Scion teased its future iM Concept. Well, the news (and pictures) we received, give more information on what we are to expect debuting at the Los Angeles Auto Show on 19th of November. The company told us that the iM concept vehicle is a reflection of the evolution of company’s design philosophy which aims to catch the attention of youthful customers. And we were right with the assumption that the car will be a sporty hatchback based on Toyota’s Auris.

    Precisely, the concept is a five-door compact hatchback with sporty looks. It is obvious that these visual characteristics were inspired by the vehicles seen on the European touring car racing circuit. The concept has unique styling with edgy, geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights.

    Take a look at his incredible exterior color. We sincerely hope that when we see it in L.A. it will look as vibrant as on these renders. This custom-blended “Incrediblue” paint is complemented by matte silver and gunmetal accents.

    In addition, the car features wide aerodynamics and a lower ride height. Having in mind that it Carries in its heart the performance spirit, it is no surprise that it rides on 19-inch forged alloy wheels and sporty performance tires. What complete the racecar-influenced design are the vented front rotors and 4-piston calipers which work with the adjustable height racing suspension.

    Scion iM Concept is the first hatchback in brand’s history. There are no details on what engine will it include: whether it will use Auris turbocharged engine, or will there be any new surprises. So we have to wait until next Wednesday to get the whole picture.

    Scion iM Concept
    Scion iM Concept

    Source: Scion

  • Toyota Shocks Sema with 850-horsepower Camry Dragster

    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry managed to shock onlookers at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. Loud roars and extensive enthusiasm abounded around the Toyota booth after the reveal of the all-new Sleeper Camry. The word “sleeper” presented in drag racing terms identifies a car which has the look of an innocent kitten but acts like a lion. In other words, it is a vehicle that can blow your mind and leave you speechless.

    At first sight, the mild-mannered seemingly stock sedan looks like it has nothing special than some custom-made wheels and ordinary smoky shade. BUT! Reality is different. The 2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry does indeed give grounds for the presence of the word “sleeper” in its name. The car flips open, and uncovers a tube-frame chassis. Just like some of those autobots that you can see in Transformers. Almost.

    The underneath part of the elegant Camry skin is all about intimidating force, strong durability and rough speed. The purpose-built dragster features a 5.7-liter 3UR-FE V8 engine sourced from the Toyota Tundra boosted by a TRD supercharger. It also includes a wet nitrous system that strikes with more than 850 HP. The crazed Sleeper Camry is equipped with brutal DOT 335/30/18 drag racing tires which are expected to help propel this Toyota to a dazzling 9.80-second quarter mile.

    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry features:

    • Magnuson Products
    • IPT Performance Transmissions
    • Plumbing: Goodridge Fluid Transfer Systems
    • TRD
    • Magnaflow
    • Autometer Digital Dash
    • Impact Racing safety harness
    • Battery: Optima Yellow Top
    • Goodyear tires
    • Nitrous Supply
    • Seat: Fast Ed’s Interiors
    • The Polishing Shop
    • Forged pistons and connecting rods
    • Suspension: Strut front and 4-link live rear axle
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry
    2015 Toyota Sleeper Camry

    Source: Toyota