Tag: Toyota

  • Toyota Introduces Innovative Urban Utility Concept [VIDEO]

    Toyota-U-squared-Urban-Utility-Concept-THUMBToyota U-squared Urban Utility Concept vehicle was developed by Toyota’s Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California. The concept car will make a first public presence at World Maker Faire in New York City on 20th and 21st of September. This revolutionary vehicle includes a new open architecture and is built with innovative materials that redefine urban utility. For instance the designers have included the ability to roll back the roof, fold down the tailgate into a ramp and customize the interior on a versatile rail system.

    The model was inspired by a growing innovative spirit in urban areas. Just take as an example the vehicle elements, which showcase the lifestyle and needs of an entrepreneurial city driver. Both exterior and interior are made in such way that they are intended for urban utilization.

    Car’s exterior dimensions can perfectly handle bumper-to-bumper traffic, potholes and tight corners. Furthermore, this Toyota U2 concept has an extremely durable underbody and tool-like exterior. In addition, the side panels are completely customizable.

    There are other distinctive design highlights such as the circular door handles and a slightly chunky proportion. The rear has a box-like design, which of course hints towards vehicle’s storage capabilities.

    Other exclusive features regarding the exterior that needs to be mentioned are the roof panels that retract open, the rear glass that can slide into the tailgate, the tailgate that folds down into a ramp and the protective and replaceable ridges on tailgate.

    Inside, the concept is as customizable as the outside. At the center of the design philosophy stood the outdoor activities, which involve gear and equipment. As a result, this made the Toyota U2 concept a flexible, functional gadget that owners can model according to their needs.

    For instance, the retractable utility bar can be used as a holding a desk or grocery bag hooks. The side windows flip up for easy access from roadside. Other key interior highlights include a versatile utility rail system configurable which can hold everything from baskets to bike stands and the ability to fold and remove the front passenger seat. Toyota also created a fold-up rear seating, unique shifter design with intuitive switch for parking, drive and reverse mode.

    Toyota U-squared Urban Utility Concept vehicle has the size of a compact car. However, it also incorporates the functionality of a compact truck and the spaciousness of a cargo van. It also delivers good fuel economy, maneuverability in city environments as well as easy loading and unloading.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfKeLto3v60

    Video Source: YouTube
    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Toyota Tundra: A Combination of Toughness and Luxury

    2015-Toyota-Tundra-t2015-Toyota-Tundra-651After a complete redesign, the 2015 Toyota TRD Pro package hits the market.  This package consist of suspension upgrade. Tuned for off-road capability, but can pretty much give you a good ride on the road as well.

    Very durable and capable truck with a brand new  grill added. Blacked-out badging , the black wheels kinda set with that aggressive look. As far as for the suspension, you have an increased ride height in the front, up to 2-inches depending on the vehicle.

    We all know how well a V8 would fit in a Tundra model. For 2015, this Toyota comes with the 4.6-liter i-Force V8 that reaches out 310 hp (231 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 327 lb.-ft. (443 Nm) of peak torque at 3,400 rpm. The 5.7-liter i-Force V8 is considered one of the top when it comes to pickup segment. It produces 381 hp (284 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. (543 Nm) of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. If you want a variation of the 5.7-liter, you can get it, because it is available in both Flex Fuel  and gasoline variants. Tundra’s pickup trucks can handle up to 10,500-lb. (4762 kg) towing capacity. It is, in my opinion unmatched. Tundra comes with 18-inch steel wheels, first class 4-wheel disc brakes.

    For such a though pickup truck, the Tundra surprises us with very unique features in the interior, like stitching on the the door panel, as well as red stitching on the exquisite seats. Aerodynamic stabilizer is used for reducing the air turbulence along the car. The tailgate lowers gradually and if needed, it can easily be removed when necessary.  All models come with a standard back-up camera, making it easier to park your car. Tundra raises the bar for safety again with the available Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (Limited CrewMax, Platinum and 1794 Edition), which detects vehicles not visible using mirrors alone.

    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Toyota Sienna Goes On Sale

    2015 Toyota Sienna minivan debuted in July showing its enhanced appearance and upscale interior, smart technology features and improved driving dynamics. Toyota has just announced the pricing of the new Sienna, which in addition will be arriving in dealerships later this month. The refreshed exterior styling of the new model comes with new headlamps with LED daytime running lamps (DRL) on SE and Limited grades. There is also new taillight and front grille design.

    Sienna will be available in nine exterior colors. There are three new shades, including Attitude Black Metallic, Crème Brule Mica and Sky Blue Pearl. The minivan has been configured for seven- or eight-passenger seating and comes in five grades: L, LE, XLE, Limited and the SE.  AWD is available on LE, XLE and Limited grades.

    The car is powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine which features Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). The unit produces 266 horsepower (196 kW) at 6,200 rpm and is mated to an electronically controlled six-speed transmission with sequential shift. The expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings are of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models.

    Inside, the car has been made more luxurious than ever. It features refreshed interior made with materials that are soft to touch and visually appealing. The glove box and driver-side upper dash are hand-wrapped in soft materials and upper door trim areas are padded. There are also metallic accents on air vents, glove box button and the center console stack. There are three new interior colors including the Bisque fabric, Chestnut Leather and Black leather.

    In terms of technology features, the 2015 Sienna comes equipped with available Driver Easy Speak, Dual-View, Blu-ray rear seat entertainment system with a 16.4-inch display and standard backup camera. Drivers will enjoy the standard new 3.5-inch multi-information display (MID) or the available 4.2-inch display.

    All Sienna models will feature 3-zone automatic climate control, EntuneTM audio system, either a 6.1 or 7-inch touchscreen display, USB 2.0 port with iPod connectivity and Bluetooth wireless technology. Sienna Limited and Limited Premium grades come with Entune Premium JBL Audio with Navigation and App Suite that features 10 speakers including a subwoofer.

    The safety features are still the grates priority in the Sienna. The family car comes as a standard with 8 airbags including a new front passenger seat cushion airbag, STAR Safety System with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, as well as Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

    The advanced safety features comprise of Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management, Hill Start Assist Control and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

    L (base grade):

    • Touchscreen audio system
    • Backup camera
    • Integrated Blind Spot Mirror
    • Auto off headlights
    • Engine immobilizer
    • Class leading 8 airbags

    LE (includes L grade features plus):

    • EntuneTM Audio Plus with 7-inch touchscreen

    SE (includes LE grade features plus):

    • Sport tuned suspension
    • Smoked headlamps with LED
    • LED Rear Combination Lamps
    • 19- inch alloy wheels
    • Sport Mesh Grille
    • Perforated leather- trimmed seats
    • Heated front seats
    • 4.2-inch color MID
    • Sport meter cluster
    • Available Premium Package adds navigation and rear seat entertainment system.

    XLE (includes LE grade features plus):

    • Leather-trimmed seats
    • Heated front seats
    • Smart Key
    • Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert
    • Premium gauge cluster
    • Chrome outside door handles
    • 4.2-inch color MID
    • Available Premium Package adds navigation and rear seat entertainment system.

    Limited (includes XLE grade features plus):

    • LED DRL
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Entune Premium JBL with Navigation and App Suite
    • Available Premium Package adds rear seat entertainment system, HID headlamps and rain sensing wipers

    2015 Toyota Sienna Pricing:

    Model # Grade Engine Transmission MSRP N/G
    5328 L FWD V6 6AT $28,600
    5338 LE FWD V6 6AT $31,330
    5366 LE AWD V6 6AT $33,860
    5342 SE FWD V6 6AT $34,900
    5343 SE PREMIUM V6 6AT $39,680
    5348 XLE FWD V6 6AT $35,100
    5349 XLE PREMIUM FWD V6 6AT $38,355
    5376 XLE AWD V6 6AT $37,300
    5377 XLE PREMIUM AWD V6 6AT $40,555
    5356 LTD FWD V6 6AT $41,650
    5357 LTD PREMIUM  FWD V6 6AT $45,020
    5386 LTD AWD V6 6AT $42,780
    5387 LTD PREMIUM  AWD V6 6AT $46,150

    Source: Toyota

  • 2015 Toyota Camry is Getting Better

    2015 Toyota Camry is undoubtedly one of the best-selling cars in North America. Now the model is ready to go on sale in late September, featuring some innovations. Toyota says that it has remade the 2015 Camry and Camry Hybrid with a bold new exterior design, improved dynamic performance, a premium interior and adding more innovative safety technologies. Camry will be offered in four trim levels: LE, SE, XSE and the top of the range – XLE. Entirely new addition to the line-up is the XSE, which is the sportiest Camry yet. All models will be powered by the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The unit generates 178 horsepower (130 kW) and 230 Nm (170 lb.-ft.) of peak torque. It is coupled with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers EPA-estimated 25 MPG city/ 35 MPG highway/ 28 MPG combined fuel economy. XSE and XLE trims will also have the option to be powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine. It will be mated to a six-speed automatic and will generate 268 horsepower (197 kW).

    Furthermore, the LE and SE will also include wide range of standard equipment such as 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, shift lever boot with contrast stitching, satin chrome interior accents, passenger window auto up-down, chrome front upper grille and rear trunk garnish and  heated outside mirrors. On the SE, the customers will also find a 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display and direct tire pressure monitor system.

    Camry XSE and XLE add more standard features over the LE and SE. These include leather-trimmed seating with multi-stage heated front seats and four-way power passenger seat on the XLE or leather-trimmed seating with Ultrasuede inserts and multi-stage heated front seats and 4-way power passenger seat on the XSE. More standard features include Entune Audio Plus multimedia system, LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels with a super chrome finish on the XLE and 18-inch alloy wheels with machined face and black paint for the XSE.

    These versions equipped with the V6 engine will add also LED high and low headlights, Smart Key entry, Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite including a 7-inch High-Resolution Touch-Screen Display, power tilt/slide moonroof and Qi wireless charging capability.

    Next, the 2015 Camry Hybrid will be offered in three grades: LE, SE and XLE. The LE adds as no cost option 8-way power driver’s seat including power lumbar and the 4.2-inch TFT multi information display. The SE trim level adds Sport fabric SofTex-trimmed front seats with seatback pockets, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support, leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic three-spoke steering wheel with Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio controls and silver interior trim.

    The top of the range, the XLE adds standard leather-trimmed seating with multi-stage heated front seats and 4-way power passenger seat, LED daytime running lights, direct tire pressure monitor system and 17-inch alloy wheels with super chrome finish.

    In terms of safety, all 2015 Camry models come equipped with 10 airbags, STAR Safety System, including Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

    The advanced safety features here comprise of Pre-Collision System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Auto High Beam, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

    2015 Toyota Camry Pricing:

     

    Model# Grade Engine Transmission 2015 MSRP
    2532 Camry LE 2.5 L 4-cyl. 6AT $22,970
    2546 Camry SE 2.5L 4-cyl. 6AT $23,840
    2540 Camry XLE 2.5L 4-cyl. 6AT $26,150
    2548 Camry XSE 2.5L 4-cyl. 6AT $26,150
    2550 Camry XSE 3.5L V6 6AT $31,370
    2554 Camry XLE 3.5L V6 6AT $31,370
    2559 Camry Hybrid LE 2.5L 4-cyl. Hybrid E-CVT $26,790
    2561 Camry Hybrid SE 2.5L 4-cyl. Hybrid E-CVT $27,995
    2560 Camry Hybrid XLE 2.5L 4-cyl. Hybrid E-CVT $29,980

    Source: Toyota

     

  • 2015 Toyota Camry Facelift for Russia

    2015-Toyota-Camry-Facelift-THUMBAt the current Moscow International Motor Show, Toyota has introduced a specifically facelifted version of its best-selling 2015 Camry. The car not only gets a visual makeover but also receives some engine updates and wide range of new features. The Russian version of the car is pretty much different from its North American sibling, which was also updated recently.

    For instance, take a look at the redesigned front end and the protruding lower grille. There is also new design of the headlights, while the upper chromed grille is thinner than this of the US version. At the rear of the model we can see that the bumper has been resculpted.

    The back also includes redesigned and definitely more elegant chrome strip, which runs across the entire width of the Camry. Toyota also prepared for the Russian customers new design of the alloy wheels.

    The interior of the car has also undergone several modifications. The sedan features entirely new backlit instrument panel including a 4.2-inch color TFT-display mounted in its center. The steering wheel has also been restyled, while the center console features 6.1- or an available 7.0-inch screen. The equipment was also enhanced with the presence of wireless mobile charger, automatic beams and heater rear seats.

    Next to the already known range of engines, Toyota is adding to the Russian version of Camry the 2.0-liter four petrol engine. It produces 150 horsepower (110 kW) and is coupled to six-speed automatic transmission. The accelerations time for the car from 0 to 100 km/h is rated at 10.4 seconds, while the average fuel consumption – at 7.2l/100km.

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota publishes pricing for all-new TRD Pro Series Tundra

    2015-Toyota-Tundra-TRD_thumb2015-Toyota-Tundra-TRD_651

    The Japanese vehicle maker Toyota has announced the price list of the all-new TRD Pro Series Tundra – a high-performance, high durability vehicle designed for rough terrain. The price of the new Tundra will range from USD 41,285 for the Double Cab with a 5.7-liter V8 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission to USD 43,900 for the CrewMax V8 with a six-speed automatic transmission. In addition to these prices expect a USD 1,100 destination, processing and handling fee, although this fee may also vary.

    Here’s what you will pay for a new Toyota Tundra TRD Pro:

    • Tundra TRD Pro Double Cab 4×4 V8 6AT FFV – USD 41,285;
    • Tundra TRD Pro Double Cab 4×4 V8 6AT – USD 41,285;
    • Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax 4×4 V8 6AT FFV – USD 43,900;
    • Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax 4×4 V8 6AT – USD 43,900;

    A distinctive feature of the all-new Tundra TRD Pro is that the vehicle will come with a number of improvements and additions when it comes to off-road performance. The so-called off-road package includes a TRD front skid plate, TRD-tuned springs with 2” lift for the front of the vehicle, a decreased spring rate to improve ride quality over harsh terrain, all-black 18-inch TRD alloy wheels with Michelin Off-Road tires designed exclusively for Tundra, a 5.7-liter V8 engine with a TRD dual exhaust system, TRD PRO quarter panel bed stamping, multi-reflector halogen headlights with black sport bezels and manual level control, a unique interior seat color with red stitching and a unique TRD Pro instrument panel ornament insert.

    Toyota has something for all 4×4 TRD Pro Series models of Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner too – all of them will be equipped with TRD Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs in the front and rear for increased oil capacity and suspension travel, TRD-tuned front springs, a unique front grill with “TOYOTA” badging (pays tribute to early iconic Toyota models), TRD floor mats, TRD shift knobs and black TRD alloy wheels. There are some cool new colors on the list too – the so called Inferno color is joined by Attitude Black Metallic and Super White – cool classics for off-road rigs.

    The new Toyota Tundra TRD Pro will reach dealerships in late September 2014, along with its Tacoma and 4Runner TRD Pro Series counterparts.

    Source: Toyota

  • Rowen International Toyota GT 86

    Rowen International has presented their tuning package for Toyota GT 86. The car comes with extreme wide body kit as well as some interior modifications.

    Outside, the tuned GT 86 boasts a new double front spoiler, a pair of wide side skirts as well as extended front and rear fenders. There is also a modified front hood, LED DRLs (daytime running lights) a big rear wing and a set of enormous alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile performance tires.

    There is a Tommy Kaira quad exhaust setup and an aggressive rear diffuser. The headlights and the taillights are also customized.

    The interior boasts new upholstery, sport harness, sport steering wheel and branded floor mats.

    No words about engine modifications, but it probably can gain an ECU re-map and additional power from the sports exhaust system. Toyota GT 86 is powered by a 2.0 liter naturally aspirated boxer with 200HP (147 kW) at 7,000RPM and 205Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque at 6,400RPM. 0-100 km/h in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 226 km/h (141 mph). The engine is connected to a 6-speed manual gearbox and sends the power to an LSD (limited-slip differential) at the rear wheels. The curb weight is just 1,258 kg.

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kh-Y5D1DHl4

    Source: Rowen International

  • Toyota Previews Second FT-1 Sports Car Concept [VIDEO]

    Toyota-FT-1-Sports-Car-Concept-THUMBToyota showed recently a second interior styling and exterior colour for an upscale interpretation of the breath-taking FT-1 sports car concept. It was developed by Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, California. The vehicle, which features graphite exterior paint and light-coloured leather accents, was on display for the first time at the Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival gala held on California’s Monterey Peninsula.

    When the original FT-1 concept ignited enthusiasts with its January debut at the North American International Auto Show, it carried bold red exterior color scheme. This second version impresses with sophisticated graphite.

    In terms of interior, the first car was dominated by bold, masculine black that kept the driver focused on the road. There were also red painted edges and raw metals which provided intriguing accents.

    In contrast, the second FT-1 Concept includes natural leather accents on the seat which are supple with an all-natural grain. In addition, the painted edges that are red in the first concept are now subtly blended brown in the second.

    The Calty creative designer, of the interior, Sellene Lee, drew inspiration for the FT-1 interior from the modern, high-tech performance materials used for today’s superhero costumes. In order to achieve the FT-1’s advanced-looking and detailed interior, Lee and her team compared leather accent thickness, grain size and texture to find the perfect combination.

    For instance, the chosen raised metal mesh delivers ventilation for the seats and at the same time gives more textural, bold effect that beautifully matches with the metal accents. A dimensional embossed pattern on the instrument panel brings in a 3-D, technical look.

    Another exclusive news regarding the FT-1 is that this September it will be available for download for the Gran Turismo 6 (GT6). Just like the red version of the car, the graphite FT-1 concept will also roar onto the GT 6 racetrack as a downloadable vehicle for a limited time.

    What is more, for the celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Gran Turismo series, Calty has also designed an ultra-high-performance race version of the FT-1 that inside the game is called “Toyota FT-1 Vision GT”. You can take a look how it came to life by watching the video below.

    httpv://youtu.be/uuXFyCHp59w

    Video Source: YouTube

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Aygo vs Peugeot 108

    If you’re on the hunt for a city car, there’s plenty of new models to choose from in the current market. You need to make sure your car is fuel-efficient, comfortable, stylish to drive and a true reflection of your personality.

    We’re interested in two new models in particular; the Toyota Aygo available at Inchcape Toyota and the Peugeot 108. But with the two being so similar, how do we know which one to choose? Which one is more fuel efficient? Which is more comfortable to drive? What kinds of prices are we looking at? Well, let’s have a look and see.

    The Toyota Aygo; the features

    The Toyota Aygo, which starts around the £8k mark, is a small car with a playful personality. You might have seen the “go fun yourself” slogans on billboards everywhere recently, and the car itself lives up to its reputation.

    The Aygo is inspired by the Japanese cartoon ‘Astroboy’ and is beautifully styled, compact and agile. With the Aygo, there’s a wide range of customisation options available so that the customer can express their individuality. With the 1L engine, the Toyota Aygo is cheap to fuel and tax, making it economical as well as downright fancy.  The ‘X’ styling may take some getting used to, but the design is distinctive enough to completely differentiate the Aygo from every other car on the road at the moment.

    You can take the personalisation of the Toyota Aygo a step further with more investment. The Aygo x-play, x-pression, x-cite and x-clusiv offer varying technological extras, from Bluetooth connectivity, to multimedia systems, to rear-view cameras. For the top-end Aygo X-clusiv, you’re probably looking more around the £11k mark, but it’s definitely worth the money.

    Pros and cons

    The pros:

    • The size of the engine makes the Aygo relatively cheap to run
    • You pretty much have the option of personalising the Aygo any way you see fit
    • The size of the vehicle is well-suited for short trips around a city, but is also comfortable to drive on the motorway
    • With the distinctive ‘X’ design, the Aygo is very stylish drive
    • The Aygo’s engine is notably quiet to drive a lot of the time

    The cons:

    • For the top-end x-clusiv, the price is a bit steep but overall, excellent value for money
    • The Aygo is a four seater, with not a great amount of boot space, so it’s maybe not an ideal choice for a family car
    • The Aygo currently only comes with a 1L engine, so there’s not much room for variation in that regard

    The Peugeot 108; the features

    The Peugeot 108 is the most recent little car to roll off the production line. It shares a lot of characteristics with the Toyota Aygo, in that it’s small, compact and ideally suited for busy city dwellers. The new 108 3-door comes as a hatchback version or as a cabrio with a retractable fabric roof, in a variety of colourful interiors and exterior themes. Whilst the 108 has been revolutionized in terms of its new lines and stylish design, it’s still got the recognizable front grille and headlights. The 108 is perfect for manoeuvring in tight spaces, with a turning radius of 4.8m, making it perfect for short city journeys. You can choose from eight different paint finishes, 7 creative themes and three interior ambiences, so you can truly make this car your own. Except for the cheapest version, the 108 has a touch screen system for controlling infotainment and can also hook up to certain smartphones. A mirror image can be projected onto the screen so you can use Google maps and play music whilst driving. The prices for the Peugeot 108 are quite similar to those of the Toyota Aygo and as a general rule, the more you customise the more you pay.

    Pros and cons

    The pros:

    • There’s a huge range of customisation options available so you can truly make the Peugeot 108 your own
    • If you’re looking for a bit of extra power, you have the option of a 1.2L engine with the Peugeot 108
    • The boot is slightly larger in the Peugeot 108 than the Toyota Aygo
    • The steering is quite accurate and light

    The cons:

    • Similar to the Aygo, the Peugeot 108 is quite a small car, so maybe not suited for families
    • Refinement is a slight issue. With both the 1L and 1.2L, the engines send a lot of vibration through the gearstick, wheel and seat bases, which can be irritating
    • With the Top! Version, the roar of the wind might be little bit too loud on motorway journeys

    The verdict

    When it comes down to fuel efficiency, size and overall price, there isn’t a huge amount of difference between the Aygo and 108. But if we had to pick one, we’d probably go for the Toyota Aygo. It’s arguably the most stylish and likely to last the long term with its comprehensive five-year warranty. Additionally, Toyota boasts a notable sixth place finish in the 2014 Driver Power reliability table, whereas Peugeot finishes in the second half of the league. Toyota has the best reputation for reliability and the makers boast a choice of nearly half a million trim and colour combinations. That definitely gives the Aygo the upper hand for making the car your own.

  • 2015 Toyota TRD Pro Series Range US Pricing Announced

    2015-Toyota-TRD-Pro-Series-Range-THUM2015 Toyota TRD Pro Series Range is coming very soon because the Japanese company has announced the US pricing of the models. Toyota also discloses that these are the most extreme off-road vehicles it has ever created. The TRD Pro Series family comprises of three models: Tacoma TRD Pro Series which will be available at dealerships in early August, 4Runner TRD Pro, arriving one month later in early September, and the Tundra TRD Pro, that is scheduled to arrive this fall.

    TRD stands for Toyota Racing Development; the experts there took care for each part by carefully engineering it, testing it and tuning it. Tundra, Tacoma and 4Runner TRD Pro Series are packed with authentic off-road capability and are available on 4X4 models.

    They come equipped with the following: TRD Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs in the rear for enhance oil capacity and suspension travel, TRD-tuned front springs, unique front grille with “TOYOTA” badging, TRD floor mats, TRD shift knobs and black alloy wheels. There is also a new exterior color offered, called Inferno, which joins the Attitude Black Metallic and Super White finishes.

    Next, each vehicle will also get specific equipment. The Tacoma TRD Pro beefs up its off-road spirit with 16-inch black beadlock-style TRD alloy wheels fittef with BFGoodrich LT265/70R16 A/T tires, TRD-tuned springs with 1.75-inch lift for the front, decreased spring rate, TRD Exhaust as well as Black “TRD PRO” external hard badge.

    The 4Runner TRD PRO will be equipped with 17-inch matte black TRD alloy wheels with Nitto Terra Grappler P265/70R17 A/T tires, TRD-tuned front springs for increased front height, ¼-inch thick aluminum front skid plate with “TRD” stamped in large font.

    For this model, Toyota is also offering convenience features such as Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite, Black SofTex-trimmed seats with red stitching, heated and power adjustable front seats, homelink universal transceiver, auto-dimming rearview mirror and auto on/off headlights.

    2015 Toyota TRD Pro Series Range US Pricing:

    MODEL# MODEL GRADE MSRP
    8674 4Runner TRD Pro 4×4 V6 5AT $41,110
    7555 Tacoma TRD Pro 4×4 Access Cab V6 6MT $35,525
    7556 Tacoma TRD Pro 4×4 Access Cab V6 5AT $36,505
    7597 Tacoma TRD Pro 4×4 Double Cab V6 6MT $36,435
    7598 Tacoma TRD Pro 4×4 Double Cab V6 5AT $37,415

    2015 Toyota TRD Pro Series Range Specifications:

    Tundra TRD Pro Tacoma TRD Pro 4Runner TRD Pro
    Wheels 18” black alloy w/ TRD logo 16” black beadlock style TRD alloy New 17” black TRD alloy
    Tires Michelin ORP BFGoodrich All Terrain KO Nitto Terra Grappler
    Shocks TRD-tuned Bilstein High Performance
    -Bilstein front and rear digressive piston and valve design
    -Bilstein ZoneControl 3-stage, positive sensitive valve design is sensitive to suspension input speed
    -Increased oil capacity for heat management and increased control of cavitation

    FRONT:
    – 2” of additional wheel travel
    – 60mm pistons > 46mm OE
    – 18mm shafts > 12mm OE
    -“Piggy back” remote reservoir

    REAR:
    – 1.25” of additional wheel travel
    – 60mm pistons > 46mm OE
    -“Piggy back” remote reservoir

    TRD-tuned Bilstein High Performance
    – Bilstein front and rear  digressive piston and valve design

    FRONT:
    – 1.75” of additional wheel travel
    – 60mm pistons > 36/32mm OE
    – 18mm shafts > 12mm OE

    REAR:
    – 1.5” of additional wheel travel
    – 46mm pistons > 36/30mm OE
    – Remote reservoir

    TRD-tuned Bilstein High Performance
    – Bilstein front and rear  digressive piston and valve design

    FRONT:
    – 1” of additional wheel travel
    – 60mm pistons > 32mm OE
    – 18mm shafts > 12mm OE

    REAR:
    – 1” of additional wheel travel
    – 46mm pistons > 32mm OE
    – Remote reservoir

    Springs Unique TRD-Tuned Front Springs

    – 2” lift for the front of the vehicle
    – Decreased spring rate to improve ride quality over harsh terrain

    Unique TRD-Tuned Front Springs

    – 2” lift for the front of the vehicle
    – Decreased spring rate to improve ride quality over harsh terrain

    Unique TRD-Tuned Front Springs

    – 1” lift for the front of the vehicle

    Exhaust TRD Dual Exhaust

    – Stainless steel system
    – Polished steel dual wall tips
    – Reduced back pressure
    – Throaty rumble sound

    TRD Cat Back Exhaust

    – Stainless steel system
    – Polished steel dual wall tips
    – Reduced back pressure
    – Throaty rumble sound

    No Change from OE
    Skid Plate New TRD Front Skid Plate

    – 1/4” thick aluminum with oil pan access panel

    – Black OE front skid plate TRD Stamped Front Skid Plate

    – 1/4” thick aluminum with venting for front differential

    Exterior – Unique “TOYOTA” front grille
    – “TRD Pro” quarter bed panel stamping
    – Matte and Satin Black “TUNDRA” and iForce 5.7L V8 badging on doors
    Multi-reflector halogen headlights with black sport bezels and manual level control
    – Unique “TOYOTA” front grille
    – Black “TRD PRO” external hard badge
    – Black “TACOMA” badging on doors
    – Unique “TOYOTA” front grille
    – Black “TRD PRO” external hard badges
    – Black front and rear lower bumper accent
    Exterior Colors Attitude Black Metallic, Super White, and Inferno (all-new exclusive color)
    Interior – TRD Shift Knob
    – TRD Floor Mats
    – Unique seat color with red stitching
    – Unique IP ornament insert
    – TRD Shift Knob
    – TRD Floor Mats
    – TRD Shift Knob
    – TRD Floor Mats

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota GT86 sets Guiness World Drift Record – 144.1 km [video]

    Harald Müller managed to set a new Guinness World Record for longest vehicle drift in a Toyota GT 86. The previous holder was Johan Schwartz – BMW Performance Center Instructor, who managed to drift the new M5 F10 for 82.520 km (51.278 miles). Harald Müller has achieved whopping 144.126 km (89.55 miles).

    The record attempt was made in Samsun, Turkey on July 15th at an event organized by local board of Youth and Sports. The course measured 235.5 meters, where Müller did 612 laps in 2 hours, 25 minutes and 18 seconds with a 2012 Toyota GT 86.

    The lightweight RWD car is powered 2.0 liter boxer engine delivering 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm (152 lb-ft) of torque. It also features a rear spoiler, 17” light alloy wheels, chrome-finished dual exhaust tailpipes and a signature “T”-mesh grille. That T motif is repeated in the shape of the rear fog light, set centrally between the tailpipes.

    At the video below you can see, that the GT 86 didn’t go all the time with a proper drift (sideways). Instead, the vehicle was going straight several times and stopped for a turn. We believe that the record should be a continuous drift without any stops or huge corrections. Still, Guinness admits the record, so it is official.

    Enjoy!

    httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrHDUkQZry4

    Source: Toyota

  • Toyota Adds Persona Special Edition To Prius Range

    2015-Toyota-Prius-Persona-Special-Edition-THUMB2015 Toyota Prius Persona Special Edition is a limited edition version of the best-selling hybrid in United States, brought to the next level. This elegant vehicle is tailored with exclusive exterior and interior touches, which make it truly one-of-a-kind. It has this eye-catching exterior and adds several changes to the equipment to create a visually distinctive car. Precisely, this car is based on the Prius Three Special Edition, and will be available exclusively in two exterior paint finishes: Absolutely Red and Blizzard Pearl. The former dye is offered for the first time on Prius.

    In addition, it runs on 17-inch alloy wheels which include a premium dark metallic finish. The special edition also comes equipped with premium heated power mirrors with turn signal indicators. At the rear there will be a badge “Persona Series”, which will help differentiate the model.

    Inside, the Persona is trimmed in black SofTex with gray stitching. The same treatment has been implemented to the steering wheel. However, it includes a dark chrome bezel that complements car’s dark chrome shift knob ring and door grips.

    To the luxurious feel of the Persona Series adds the blue driver and front-passenger foot area illumination. 2015 Prius Persona Series Special Edition will begin arriving in dealerships in September and will be priced at $26,985 USD.

    Source: Toyota