Toyota – Page 27 – Automobiles Review

Geneva Motor Show: Toyota Unveils RAV4 Premium Concept And RAV4 Adventure

At the Geneva Motor Show Toyota is revealing two new concept vehicles based on the stylish RAV4 model. Both of them were created to reinforce different aspects of the styling and capabilities of the latest RAV4.

The fist one is called RAV4 Premium and it comes to underline the compact SUV’s high quality while the second one – the RAV4 Adventure, builds on the vehicle’s rugged off-road character. RAV4 Premium brings about more sophistication.

Its bodywork and bumpers are finished in Deep Bronze. This enhances the sense of harmony in the design. In addition, at the front, there is a central grille with horizontal lines and air intakes, while the LED lights are further accentuated by a stylish chrome-finished spoiler.

On the other hand, at the rear one can see a redesigned bumper which now comes with chrome inserts, brushed aluminium skid plates and an integrated tailpipe design. The Premium Concept runs on 20-inch alloys that are matched to the aluminium roof rails.

The interior of the model exudes nothing but luxury, thanks to the premium leather upholstery. New black piping and a V-shaped outline reinforce the design of the seats, and the use of two-tone double stitching in several areas expresses both robustness and quality. Grey and black leather wrapping can be seen on the instrument and door panels.

Secondly, the RAV4 Adventure brings about more enhanced off-road capabilities. First thing that grabs the attention is the striking dark red paint that evokes the strong, athletic qualities of the fourth-generation RAV4’s exterior.

The aggressive presence of the morel is further enhanced via the addition of extended wheel arches that accommodate larger 20-inch alloy wheels. Here, the front and rear bumpers have been redesigned and finished with matt paint.

The front bumper is integrated with a new under-run while the rear includes fully integrated twin exhaust pipes and a reworked skid plate. At last, what has to be mentioned are the included here machined roof rails and dark-tinted privacy glass.

Source: Toyota

March 6, 2013

Toyota i-Road Concept With World Premiere In Geneva

Toyota i-Road Concept is a personal mobility vehicle (PMV) which is making a world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. It aims to bring more flexibility in the urban environment, efficiency and fewer emissions.

i-Road is an electric vehicle with a range of up to 30 miles (50km) on a single charge. It utilizes “Active Lean” technology, and offers intuitive and enjoyable driving with no need for driver or passenger to wear a helmet.

With this PMV, Toyota is paving the way for several types of eco vehicles which are to emerge in the near future, and will adapt brand’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. The latter is used in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCVs).

In fact, people who are using PMVs will be delighted with this model because it is more comfortable, offers better weather protection and is safer than a two-wheel vehicle. In addition, the i-Road has low running costs, easy parking and around-town manoeuvrability.

The three-wheel i-Road is 2,350mm long and 1,445mm high and has a 1,700mm wheelbase. What is more surprisingly however is its width which is only 850mm. First of all this signifies that the vehicle isn’t wider than a conventional two-wheeler and secondly this makes it easier for manoeuvring through congested traffic. Additionally, it also means four can be parked in a single parking bay.

Furthermore, this Toyota model has zero-emissions, thanks to its all-electric powertrain which utilizes a lithium-ion battery to power two 2kW motors mounted in the front wheels, giving brisk acceleration and near-silent running. The driving range here is around 30 miles, after which the battery can be fully recharged from a conventional domestic power supply in only three hours.

The highlight here is the company’s new and entirely intuitive Active Lean technology. It brings to the vehicle high levels of stability, safety, comfort and fun-to-drive character. In particular, the system uses a lean actuator and gearing mounted above the front suspension member, linked via a yoke to the left and right front wheels.

What is more, an ECU calculates the required degree of lean based on steering angle, gyro-sensor and vehicle speed information, with the system automatically moving the wheels up and down in opposite directions, applying lean angle to counteract the centrifugal force of cornering.

The same system also manages when the PMV is being driven in a straight line over stepped surfaces. What happens is that the actuator automatically compensates the changes in the road to keep the body level. Here the minimum turning circle is measured at three meters.

In addition, the i-Road can be equipped with a safer, weatherproof, closed body and so can be driven without wearing a helmet. Of course, this means that the driving experience is more car-like and this is reinforced by features such as lighting, heating, audio and Bluetooth.

Toyota i-ROAD Concept has the goal and the beautiful vision for the future to play a significant role in reducing city traffic congestion and air pollution. Additionally, its compact size, manoeuvrability, easy parking, rapid charging and choice of an open or closed cabin make it the perfect urban vehicle, without compromising individual freedom of mobility.

Source: Toyota

March 4, 2013

Toyota FT-86 Open Concept – Drift and Wind in the Hair

Toyota has officially revealed the new FT-86 Open Concept. The convertible sports car brings unique pleasure combining two of most desired experiences for a petrol head – drift and wind in the hair.

The FT-86 Open Concept will be exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show, next week. The car features an electrically operated soft top. A Milan-based designer color-coordinated the interior and exterior, with the resulting design evoking quality and sportiness. The interior and exterior feature high-contrast white and navy blue that emphasize the vehicle’s proportions as well as the integrated nature of the design.

In addition, yellow-gold stitching in the floor mats and seats acts as an accent conveying a sporty feel. Furthermore, the styling conveys a dramatically different impression when the roof is opened.

No words about performance, but probably the convertible will share the same engine as the coupe – a 2.0 liter naturally aspirated boxer with 200HP (147 kW) and 205Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque.

Source: Toyota

March 1, 2013

2013 Toyota Le Mans Hybrid Challenger Revealed

Toyota Racing has just revealed the revised TS030 Hybrid which carries the name 2013 Toyota Le Mans Hybrid Challenger. The latter will participate in the Le Mans 24 Hours and the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) this Motor-sport season.

The racing team has begun the first full test of the new 2013 TS030 Hybrid at Paul Ricard in southern France. Last year, the team achieved great success which includes three victories in just six races. The same hopes are expected for the new season and there is the ambition to win both the Le Mans 24 Hours and the WEC title.

Toyota Racing team will again use Toyota Hybrid System – to be more precise the Racing powertrain, which was created especially by company’s motorsport division in Higashifuji. To go even further into details, the unique super capacitor-based hybrid system generates 300 hp (224kW) of boost automatically, on top of the 530hp (395kW) generated by a 3.4-litre normally aspirated V8 petrol unit.

In addition, it was revealed that Toyota’s motorsport division has fine-tuned the new powertrain in order to improve power, efficiency, management of component usage and reliability. Furthermore, the race-winning TS030 Hybrid chassis has also been updated, thus delivering enhanced performance.

2013 Toyota Le Mans Hybrid Challenger includes also a revised aerodynamic package. In it is featured an updated monocoque, which will offer better performance and at the same time will reduce the weight of the car by circa 15 kg.

The complete WEC schedule is the following:

Silverstone, UK (14 April)
Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium (4 May)
Le Mans, France (22 June)
Sao Paulo, Brazil (1 September)
Austin, US (22 September)
Fuji, Japan (20 October)
Shanghai, China (10 November)
Bahrain (30 November)

Source: Toyota

February 21, 2013

2013 Toyota Camry XLE – Interior Upgrades

Toyota has announced the new 2013 Camry and Camry Hybrid. The midsize sedans enter the 2013 model year gaining enhancements to interior design and comfort and safety technology. The Blind Spot Monitor system, with availability expanded to the Camry SE grade, adds a rear cross traffic alert function.

The model is among the best-selling vehicles in USA for 14 of the past 15 years. It boasts a bold, sophisticated new design with a more spacious interior, improved driving dynamics and an even quieter ride than before when it debuted for 2012.

The engine range includes a 2.5 liter petrol with 178HP (131 kW) and 230Nm (170 lb-ft), a 3.5 liter V6 petrol delivering 268HP (197 kW) and 335Nm (248 lb-ft) and the Hybrid Synergy Drive.

The 2.5 liter engine is mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission and returns 25 MPG city / 35 MPG highway EPA fuel economy ratings. The fuel economy of the V6 is 21 MPG city and 31 MPG on the highway.The 2013 Camry Hybrid, which achieves 43 city MPG, also gains the interior enhancements of the gasoline Camry.

The gasoline Camry is offered in entry-level L, value-driven LE, premium XLE and sporty SE grades, with a four-cylinder engine on L and LE and a choice of four-cylinder or V6 on SE and XLE. The Camry Hybrid is offered in LE and XLE grades.

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.

Source: Toyota

February 20, 2013

2013 Toyota Auris Touring Sports

Toyota has presented the new 2013 Auris Touring Sports. The model offers a choice of a full hybrid powertrain, marking further diversification of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology.

2013 Auris Touring Sports boasts dynamic design, best-in-segment functionality and large, flexible loadspace. The new model will broaden the appeal of Auris and is expected to help increase the model’s European segment share to more than five per cent by 2014, its first full year of sales.

As witnessed in the new Auris hatchback, the strong and distinctive exterior design maximises the aerodynamic benefits that come with the model’s lower overall height and the dynamic improvements offered by its lower centre of gravity.

The Touring is powered by a 1.33-litre Dual VVT-i and 1.6-litre Valvematic petrol units; the 1.4-litre D-4D diesel; and full hybrid – a first in the family/compact estate car market.

The Full Hybrid version includes a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine and an electric motor. The total power is 136HP (100 kW). 0-100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). The Full Hybrid also boasts class-leading 86g/km CO2 emissions.

Source: Toyota

February 15, 2013

2013 Toyota GT86 TRD – Price £31,495

2013 Toyota GT86 TRD

Toyota has announced the pricing of the GT 86 TRD. The sports car will be run in limited series of just 250 units. All of them are equipped with performance features from TRD (Toyota Racing Development). GT86 is the first UK Toyota for which official TRD parts have been used to create a specific production model grade.

The GT 86 TRD will hit the market on 1 March with pricing starting from £31,495 for the manual and £32,995 for the automatic versions. It will be available in a choice of two colours: Pearl White and GT86 Black.

The sports styling includes a set of 18” cast TF6 alloys, deep front and side skirts, a rear bumper spoiler and a fast-response quad-exhaust system with a rear diffuser to increase stability. The TRD touches also extended to a branded radiator cap and fuel filler cover, while inside the car there is a new TRD gear shift lever.

Standard equipment includes HID headlamps, front fog lamps, limited slip differential, Smart Entry and Start, dual-zone climate control, analogue dials and meters, drilled aluminium pedals, sports seats, scuff plates, cruise control and the Toyota Touch multimedia system.

The performance remains unchanged – 0-100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h (140mph), 0-100 km/h in 8.4 seconds and 209 km/h (130 mph) – manual/automatic.

There are slight changes in fuel consumption and emissions: 192g/km and 34.9mpg for the manual and 181g/km and 36.2mpg for the automatic (all figures official combined cycle).

Source: Toyota

February 8, 2013

2014 Toyota Tundra at the Chicago Auto Show

Toyota has presented the new 2014 Tundra at the Chicago Auto Show. It is designed, engineered and built in the U.S. The Pick-up truck has a powerful front image and chiseled overall appearance.

Outside, it features a muscular front view that signifies its “pulling power” through a wider, taller grille. There are also big headlamps that interlock with the rest of the front fascia. The front hood is raised by 1.6” contributing to the bolder appearance. The big bed has sculpted character lines all the way down the side leading to a new gate. There is also an integrated spoiler and “TUNDRA” embossed directly into the sheet metal creating a rugged high-tech look. The front bumper is also different compared to the previous model.

The interior is more driver-centric thanks to moving the center stack 2.6” closer for easier access. There is a new gauge cluster with distinctive styling, which is easier to view.

To satisfy the growing number of premium, full-size truck buyers, the redesigned Tundra will offer five distinct grades each with a “unique flavor” that is immediately recognizable — including a different front grille for each rather than just an equipment build up from grade to grade.

The SR grade is our entry-level Tundra designed primarily for the work-use buyer who will value its excellent utility on the job.

Although work-focused. the SR includes convenience features like Display Audio with integrated Backup Camera and Bluetooth as standard features.

The SR5 will continue to be our volume model with a great mix of style and capability.

SR5:

chrome grille surround,
fog lights,
satellite radio,
and optional 18” alloy wheels.

Limited trim level:

a unique grille insert,
chrome accents,
and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Inside heated leather bucket seats with power driver controls, wood grain trim and Display Audio with navigation and Entune add to the Limited’s well-appointed character.

TRD Off-Road Package:

unique 18-inch wheels,
dedicated off-road tires,
and performance springs and shocks.

Platinum trim level:

black premium leather seats and double stitching on the seats, doors and instrument panel inserts – along with chrome trim and brushed metallic accents

Source: Toyota

February 8, 2013

Toyota GT 86 GT4 Race Car

GPRM has presented Toyota GT 86 GT4 Race Car, which will take part in a number of competitions. The Race Car meets all FIA regulations for 2014.

The 2.0 liter four-cylinder boxer engine can be boosted from 360HP (268 kW) to 400HP (298 kW). The final output will be determined after the testing phase is completed. The power unit is developed by GPRM in collaboration with Nicholson McLaren Engines.

The GT 86 GT4 comes with modified front bumper, new hood with vents for additional cooling of the engine, extended front and rear wheel arches to make space for the big light wheels fitted with race tires. There is also a huge rear wing for additional downforce.

The interior is stripped, but it features sports seat and steering wheel as well as a safety roll cage.

Source: Toyota

February 5, 2013

Toyota FT-86 Open Concept With World Premiere in Geneva

Toyota is going to reveal its FT-86 Open Concept at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, but now it teases us with a sketch of what the car would look like. The brand is undoubtedly going to stoke the passions of driving enthusiasts when it unveils the convertible version of the popular 86 sportscar.

Toyota FT-86 Open Concept is in fact a possible future variant of the award-winning 86 and it has been made to gauge customer reaction for a convertible version of the famous model. Hence it will raise the question whether it is possible for the driving pleasure to be taken to another level.

Just as a reminder, the original FT-86 Concept debuted back in 2009 at Tokyo Motor Show and was designed to give the driver greater control with a compact design, light body and low centre of gravity. It promised power and environmental performance from its two-litre boxer engine.

The next car in the series was the FT-86G Sports Concept car and it was enhanced by GAZOO Racing. Thanks to the latter it got more aggressive styling and performance. Although it retained the front-engine, rear-drive layout it included a tuned turbocharged engine enhancement.

Third in the series comes the FT-86 II Concept that debuted in 2011 at the Geneva Motor Show. It had compact proportions featured a long, low bonnet, high wings and rear-set cabin.

Souce: Toyota

February 1, 2013

2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV Offers Improved Dynamics and Safety

The next generation 2013 Toyota RAV4 SUV made its official debut at last years Los Angeles Auto Show in November after being “teased” several times. Now it is time for this Toyota SUV to hit the market and offer to the customers great enhancements in terms of performance, handling and safety.

First of all, RAV4 comes with selectable Sport mode which delivers more dynamic, sporting drive experience. This is achieved by decreasing the power-steering assistance, sharpening the throttle response and adapting the automatic and CVT gearbox management for more responsive gearshifts.

In those models with featured AWD there is also available a new Dynamic Torque Control system. This one provides better stability and agility in any driving conditions – for instance wet or dry roads. In addition, the torque transfer to the rear wheels will now occur when the system detects understeer during cornering.

Next, the new RAV4 will also offer improved fuel efficiency thanks to the fact that the front-wheel drive is automatically engaged in normal driving conditions. The system uses information from speed, steering, throttle and yaw sensors to monitor and control torque transfer.

The Sport mode in the AWD models also activates torque transfer to the rear wheels from the moment the steering wheel is turned. This means that it automatically distributes 10 percent of torque to the rear wheels and will optimize torque transfer up to 50 per cent if actual understeer is detected.

What is also new here is the Eco mode which maximizes the fuel efficiency by regulating the engine’s output and air-conditioner’s operation. In terms of passive and active safety, the 2013 RAV4 steps in with highly rigid body that has been engineered to achieve a five-star NCAP safety rating.

Source: Toyota

January 22, 2013

2013 NAIAS: Toyota Corolla Furia Concept Makes Official World Debut

Toyota-Corolla-Furia-Concept-THUM Another first world appearance at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit made the Toyota Corolla Furia Concept. The compact sedan concept has the styling cues of the next-generation Corolla and to be more precise it builds on the brand’s product development priority to deliver more dramatic, expressively designed vehicles.

As a matter of fact the new Toyota concept is created around a theme of “Iconic Dynamism”. The latter stands for the utilization of pure and simple surface elements and has the aim to make a confident, decisive and recognizable appearance.

In addition, the Furia Concept is a provocative and dynamic interpretation of a compact sedan which displays a more stable, athletic stance given that it is equipped with 19-inch allow wheels pushed to the vehicle’s corners with short overhangs. This of course only emphasizes the long wheelbase of the car.

Some of the highlights in the design of the Corolla Furia design include a swept windshield, with a sloped roofline and pronounced fender flares. The front fascia is aggressively styled with a blacked-out grille treatment and sculpted front LED headlamps.

At the rear one can see the rear composite LED taillight assemblies which add a sense of advanced technology. More importantly, carbon fiber accents can be seen literally everywhere: from the wheel wells, through the rocker panels, to the rear valance. The latter features includes ornate metal exhaust outlet surrounds to add a sense of modern athleticism.

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept Dimensions: