Toyota is adding a five-door Liftback, to its popular, fuel-efficient Yaris subcompact model line for 2009.
The versatile new five-door Yaris joins the three-door Liftback and four-door Sedan, making Yaris the only model line in its segment to offer a full complement of three body styles. Toyota projects 130,000 Yaris sales for calendar year 2009, with the new five-door accounting for about a third of those. Yaris five-door will begin arriving in dealerships in August. (more…)
Tag: Toyota
-
Toyota Expands Yaris Line for 2009 with Third Model and New Safety Features
-
Toyota Auris TR now available with 1.4 D-4D 90 engine
Toyota has doubled the diesel choice in its Auris TR range with the introduction of its lightweight, economic 1.4 D-4D 90 engine to the line-up. Lightweight, smooth and highly efficient, the unit delivers strong fuel economy and low emissions. It takes the engine choice in the best-selling TR grade to four, joining the 1.4 VVT-i and 1.6 VVT-i petrol units and the 2.0 D-4D 130 diesel. (more…)
-
Toyota to build Prius in U.S. Highlander to Indiana; all Tundra to Texas
Toyota is responding to changes in consumer demand and improving the production efficiency and stability of its North American operations by adjusting production mix at three plants. The changes include the addition of the Prius hybrid sedan to its North American lineup. (more…) -
More Style, More Muscle: Toyota’s New Hilux Invincible 200
A YEAR ago Hilux was on top of the world, the first car to be driven through the Arctic wastes to the Magnetic North Pole. Now it is top of the pile again with a new range-topping model that is Britain’s most powerful production pick-up. -
Toyota develops new fuel cell hybrid with improved cruising distance of more than 500 miles
Toyota has developed a new fuel cell hybrid vehicle that travels more than double the distance of its predecessor model, increasing the maximum cruising range from 205 miles to 515 miles.
Limited cruising ranges of previous fuel cell systems presented obstacles to widespread fuel cell vehicle use but the ‘Toyota FCHV-adv’ (fuel cell hybrid vehicle-advanced) improves the cruising range with its newly designed high-performance Toyota FC Stack. (more…) -
Engine Specialist Opts for Toyota Reliability
As one of the UK’s leading engine manufacturers and importers, E. P. Barrus Ltd knows all about power plants. Now its awareness of the reliability of Toyota engineering has encouraged the company to switch its car and van fleet to that badge. Over 20 units have already been delivered to the company’s headquarters in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The vehicles have replaced some of the existing Barrus fleet, which consisted largely of Vauxhalls and Jaguars. (more…) -
All-New Ford Flex Poised To Deliver A Quiet Ride
When customers take their new Ford Flex for its first spin this summer, they may be surprised by what’s missing: the noise.Flex delivers a quieter ride than competitors including the Acura MDX, Toyota Highlander and GMC Acadia, according to Ford tests. That’s good news for customers, who tend to directly relate a vehicle’s quietness with its quality, says Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president of Global Product Development. “Quietness is a very good proxy for quality in a vehicle.” (more…)
-
Toyota iQ
Toyota is world-premiering the production design of the new iQ at the Geneva Motor Show. First shown as the Concept Car iQ at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the iQ will go into production during late 2008.The new iQ is a sophisticated car, representing the ultimate refined urban mode of transportation.
-
Toyota iQ concept
The Toyota iQ concept, unveiled today at the Frankfurt Motor Show, marks a step change in small car design, challenging conventional thinking by being small, yet spacious and high in premium quality features. It’s an ultra-compact vehicle that achieves exceptional space efficiency and is perfectly tailored to the lifestyle needs and environmental concerns of Europe’s modern metropolitans. The iQ concept was created at ED2, Toyota’s European design studio in the South of France, following the principles of Toyota’s ‘vibrant clarity’ design philosophy – forward-looking, intelligent and energetic, with clarity of purpose and function. (more…) -
Toyota Corolla Verso
Corolla Verso, one of the key core models for Toyota in Europe, is to get a fresh, new look and will offer to customers even more premium equipment levels, while continuing building its success based on its versatility, high level of quality and driving pleasure.At the same time, the environmental performance of the Corolla Verso is to be enhanced with the introduction of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) catalytic converter on the best-selling 2.2 D-4D 135 engine.The Corolla Verso now boasts one of the most technically advanced and clean diesel engine line-ups in Europe. The 2.2 D-4D 135 is available alongside the D-4D 180 Clean Power engine with Toyota D-CAT which reduces NOx and Particulate Matters (PM) emissions at the same time.
The new look and enhanced equipment levels, including dual-zone air conditioning and new audio system, will build on the existing success of the Toyota Corolla Verso which has proved to be one of the most popular compact MPVs in Europe.
The revised Toyota Corolla Verso will go on sale in Europe from June and July, depending on markets.
Corolla Verso offers a sporty styling and is packed with innovative design solutions, allowing seven people to sit in comfort within its compact overall length.
The unique Toyota Easy Flat-7 seating system means all five rear seats can be folded away to create a fully flat floor. The Corolla Verso was the first model in the compact C-MPV segment to offer this feature and it remains one of the easiest to operate.
The Corolla Verso is also one of the leaders in its segment when it comes to safety. It has been awarded five stars for adult occupancy protection by Euro NCAP, as well as four stars for child safety. The Corolla Verso features several segment-firsts; such as the availability of nine airbags including the driver’s knee airbag, and the innovative Cornering Assist Monitor, which has been upgraded and revised to make it more effective and easier to use.
With its stylish sporty looks, spacious interior and high level of perceived quality, the Corolla Verso has opened up the market for compact MPVs to a whole new group of customers – active couples who are looking for something a bit more special than just another family car.
European sales success
Since its launch in 2004, Corolla Verso has proved to be a unique C-MPV offer in Europe combining a dynamic design high level of quality, driving pleasure and ingenious modularity.
With an exterior design created at Toyota’s European design centre, ED2, in the south of France and production based at TMMT manufacturing plant in Adapazari, Turkey, the Corolla Verso has challenged the way European customers view the compact MPV segment.
Unlike sales in the main C-segment (showing a declining trend) the C-MPV segment in Europe is stable at around 1.4 million units a year.
Last year some 95,471 Corolla Verso were sold in the region, a 3% increase on 2005 and representing a 6.6% European segment share. Toyota is planning to sell 93,000 Corolla Verso models in Europe in 2007.
Much of the recent growth in Corolla Verso sales has been stimulated by the introduction of the 2.2-litre D-4D engine range in late 2005. These engines, which offer increased performance, greater driving pleasure and significantly reduced harmful emissions, clearly demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to sustainable mobility through advanced powertrain development. The introduction of the 2.2-litre D4-D range has boosted diesel engine sales to 42% of the mix while the segment is at 65%.
Fresh new look
The 2007 Corolla Verso moves with the times and its fresh new look has a strong individuality while retaining the clear Toyota family identity. The new frontal styling, created within the context of Toyota’s Vibrant Clarity design language, gives the Corolla Verso more individuality and character with a strong sense of innovation. There is a new vertical character line linking the upper grille and the bumper, giving the bumper an integrated appearance with the bonnet.
The new front bumper with more presence adds 10 mm to the overall length (now 4 360 mm) and front overhang (880 mm). At the same time, the new styling features more sporty graphics, such as the mesh-style radiator grille and new shape to the turn indicator lamps. Front headlamps have been redesigned to give a more dynamic image and a smoked finish to add sporty emphasis to the halogen headlamps and rear lamps will feature specifically on the D-4D 180 Clean Power model. Rear styling features a new, rectangular turn indicator lamp and a new chrome-plate finish to the wider number plate trim. This helps create a greater sense of width.
There are now four clearly differentiated grade levels (Terra, Luna, Sol and Premium Active) identified with specific wheel trims and featuring newly created alloy wheels for Luna and Sol. To complete the more sporty and dynamic look, Corolla Verso is available in ten exterior colours, five of which are new to the range.
The four grade level structure is carried over to the interior trim where there have been further improvements in perceived quality and comfort.
New fabric upholstery has been created for the main body of all three rows of seats with specific fabrics for each grade level. In addition, the rear surface of the second and third rows is covered in carpet fabric to improve the perceived quality and durability.
These trim improvements reinforce the sense of superior quality that is a key feature of Corolla Verso design and build. Tight panel gaps, with superior fit and finish, produce flush surfaces and the geometric, three-dimensional lines of the interior styling give the cockpit a well-defined form. This, combined with the metallic finishes and new blue acrylic panel for the air conditioning, accent the centre cluster and create a high-tech appearance.
Improved environmental performance
As one of the world’s leading global vehicle manufacturers Toyota has long recognised its corporate responsibility for the environment and is committed to a comprehensive vision of sustainable mobility. Much progress has already been made in petrol and diesel engines and Toyota continues to research and develop advanced technologies to offer better performance and reduced emissions.
The Corolla Verso range clearly demonstrates how Toyota’s advanced technology petrol and diesel engines can offer customers great driving pleasure, good performance and significantly reduced environmental damage through low fuel consumption and effective emission controls.
This position is strengthened by the introduction of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) catalytic converter on the best-selling 2.2 D-4D 135 engine for the Corolla Verso. The new engine will join a line-up which includes the high performance D-4D 180 Clean Power engine with advanced D-CAT technology – already among the cleanest diesel engines in its class.
The DPF catalytic converter not only purifies the exhaust of hydrocarbons (HC) and Carbon monoxide (CO) – as with a conventional oxidation converter – but also significantly reduces particulate matter (PM) as well. The DPF converter utilises wall-flow construction which forces the exhaust gases through tiny pores in the catalyst substrate walls, trapping the particles.
Unlike many other particulate filters, the Toyota DPF catalytic converter is ‘self-cleaning’, hence is maintenance free throughout the life of the vehicle. An exhaust fuel injection is used to raise the DPF catalyst temperature on a controlled basis and the particles burn off to clear the filter pores. This process requires the addition of a fifth fuel injector which is placed in the exhaust manifold.
Other enhancements to the 2.2 D-4D 135 engine include the fitting of ceramic glow plugs with a higher operating temperature than conventional plugs. These improve low temperature starting and reduce white smoke.
An air-bypass system for the Exhaust Gas Recirculation allows compressed exhaust gas to by-pass the EGR cooler under light engine loads when cooling is not required. This contributes to high power output and low emissions under these conditions.
The new 2.2 D-4D 135 engine with DPF offers the same performance figures as the conventional catalytic converter equipped engine – 100 kW (136 DIN hp) maximum power at 3600 rpm and torque of 310 Nm across the engine range 1800 rpm to 2800 rpm.
The Corolla Verso will continue to be available with a choice of two highly efficient, VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing – Intelligent) petrol engines which offer excellent fuel consumption and lively performance. These engines are equipped with advanced ‘by-wire’ throttle control to enhance driving pleasure and optimise fuel consumption. The 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol develops 129 DIN hp and 170 Nm of torque while the highly-efficient 1.6-litre VVT-i petrol develops 110 DIN hp.
A five-speed Multi-Mode manual transmission is available with the 1.8-litre petrol engine offering the convenience of ‘clutchless’ automatic gear changes or sequential manual shift. This has now been equipped with a warning lamp which indicates any overheating in the clutch system.
Premium equipment levelsThe style, versatility and premium quality of Corolla Verso have brought new customers to the segment and to Toyota. This facelift will add even more premium equipment to Corolla Verso to further enhance value and driving enjoyment. The premium build quality of Corolla Verso is clearly illustrated in the Toyota safety approach which puts Corolla Verso among the class leaders in the segment. Corolla Verso is one of six Toyota models that has been awarded five stars in Euro NCAP tests for adult occupant safety. Passive safety systems include a highly rigid and strong passenger cabin which is surrounded by an impact-absorbing structure to divert collision energy away from the occupants. Corolla Verso is available with nine SRS airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag, a steering column energy absorbing mechanism, an ISOFIX child seat anchorage system and WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept seats, which minimise the whiplash effect caused to a passenger’s neck in the event of a rear collision.
Corolla Verso’s four-disc braking system and optional Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) offer maximum performance and control whether one or seven occupants are inside the car. The top braking performance is enhanced by the Brake Control System which can offer Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Traction Control (TRC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).
For optimum driver and passenger comfort, the Corolla Verso will now be available with dual-zone automatic air conditioning. This allows independent digital setting of the cabin temperature to suit the preferences of each passenger.
The already sophisticated and fully integrated audio and navigation system has been upgraded to maintain its position among the most advanced in the segment. The audio system will now play MP3 and WMA files and offers Bluetooth connectivity.
The navigation system is latest generation with clear mapping displayed in 32k colours and using ‘Michelin-style’ colour coding for roads and features which are instantly familiar to most drivers. The system offers voice guidance in 10 European languages and RDS-TMC traffic information.
Operation of the full map navigation system has been made easier by the integration of telephone and voice switches into the steering wheel along with audio controls. The telephone switch is used to operate Bluetooth compatible cellular phones while the voice switch is used to operate the navigation system voice recognition function.
There have also been significant enhancements to the front Corner Assist Monitor and rear Parking Assist Monitor which are one of Corolla Verso’s most innovative features. These enhancements make the Assist Monitors more effective and easier to use. The Corner Assist Monitor allows the driver to see areas in front of the vehicle which could be out of the direct line of sight, such as at blind junctions or when turning in confined spaces. It can help confirm the presence of oncoming vehicles, cyclists or pedestrians. The camera for the Corner Assist Monitor has now been changed to one with a three-dimensional view that allows indirect monitoring left, right and in the lower area in front of the vehicle. This enables the driver to see objects that might be in the blind spot immediately in front of the vehicle. Touching a switch on the screen changes the display between two and three-dimensional view. At the same time, the angle of vision from the camera has been increased to give a further extension of the side view.
The rear Parking Assist Monitor which indicates the course of the vehicle to the driver during parking has also been upgraded with a more effective display design and a help function.
The enhanced Corolla Verso, to be revealed at the Barcelona Motor Show, will contribute to make the model a continuous strong competitor in its segment thanks to a more dynamic design and the addition of premium equipments, with the environment friendliness in mind.
The Corolla Verso will be revealed at the Barcelona Motor Show on June 7th 2007.
-
Toyota Hybrid-X
Toyota presents a world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show with the reveal of Hybrid X – a concept car that proposes a new design language for hybrid models, while also acting as an innovative technology showcase for future generation hybrid cars.Hybrid X is a vision for future environmentally friendly motoring. It fits clearly within Toyota’s environmental strategy of offering sustainable mobility for modern families. Hybrid X further extends the use of Hybrid Synergy Drive® which is becoming an enabler for vehicle concept innovation and allowing Toyota to push forward to new frontiers.
Hybrid X is designed as a four door, four seat open-space concept. It has the dimensions of a conventional family car with an overall length of 4,500mm and wheelbase of 2,800mm. The width is 1,850mm and height 1,440mm.
Hybrid X has been created and developed by Toyota’s European styling centre, ED², in the south of France. It proposes unconventional creative solutions that will themselves potentially become the signature points of a specific hybrid identity.
Toyota Hybrid-X 
Hybrid X follows the core values of the Toyota brand design philosophy under two consistent themes: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japaneseinspired design and cultural form, while Vibrant Clarity is the design language used to express the J-factor. Through Vibrant Clarity, designers will infuse future vehicles with a completely original identity and emotional intensity that will be uniquely identifiable as coming from Toyota.
In this context, designers created an unconventional fusion of strength, lightness and emotion through the futuristic body shape. There is fusion of thought also – a symbiosis between the exterior and the interior so that, as you look at the exterior, you can imagine the interior with clarity and vision.
Interior designer, Laurent Bouzige, says: “Hybrid X is conceived as a multi-sensory experience. There is a formal style in the shape of the vehicle and the material used but every other reaction is linked to the passengers’ senses of sound, smell, sight and touch through interactive ambience.”
The strongest form element of the exterior shape is the two ‘U’ shapes created by the massive upper glass frame area and the unconventional A and C pillars. When viewed from above this gives the impression of a vast X – hence the name of the concept, Hybrid X.
The U-shaped pillars allow the general shape of Hybrid X to achieve a superior aerodynamic form which is further enhanced by smooth surface lines and the integrated rear spoiler.
At the same time the glass area greatly enhances visibility to create an ‘open-space’ concept which “frames the vision” in all directions, including up.
Access and innovation are features of the rear-hinged passenger doors which open electronically at the touch of a button. Dynamic hints of driving performance are provided by the customised 20-inch alloy wheels with ultra-low profile 225/40 R20 tyres.
The smooth, aerodynamic lines of the front are unbroken by headlamps which are integrated into the dashboard and are now part of the interior of the car. These LED lamps are ‘intelligent’ and display graphic forms through animation, adopting the interactive concept of Hybrid X to communicate safety information to pedestrians or other drivers, such as safety distances, acceleration and braking.
Across the rear the energy-efficient LED lights form another U shape, reflecting the design signature of vehicle as a whole.
Fusion between exterior and interior styling is clear from the swooping curves of the interior surfaces. Here there are classic ergonomic solutions and the multi-sensory experience is most keenly developed as the car responds to human interaction. The human element is further emphasised by an artistic drawing printed on the inside door panel.
The driver can set the ambience within the car via an interface in order to control the four senses of sight, sound, touch and smell. LED lighting systems within the car provide a variety of illumination and are changing in harmony with different musical backgrounds. A perfume diffuser fills the air with gentle, relaxing aroma while the use of many different materials and textures on the interior surfaces provides variety to touch.
The drive-by-wire steering pad features a screen in its centre to relay vital energy information to the driver about the energy flow path, fuel consumption, gear position. Interactive navigation and Bluetooth connectivity is provided by a second screen in front of the driver.
A third touch screen, in the console, controls the ambience settings, such as the entertainment and audio systems, lightning operation and air conditioning. A sensitive touch on the steering pad allows the driver to switch information on the screens.
Space saving seats are formed using injected foam techniques which create comfort while reducing weight. In order to further promote human interaction, the two independent rear seats can swivel by 12 degrees to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery or a more intimate ‘tête-à-tête’.
For now, it is clear Hybrid X is an innovative vehicle that conceives how Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology can deliver economical, cleaner and more comfortable motoring. It is a step closer to Toyota’s vision of the ultimate environmental driving technology and its design will influence the entire Toyota brand and its hybrid models in the future.
-
H&R Toyota Auris
Just in time for the official presentation of the new Toyota Auris, H&R can already deliver several suspension modifications for the successor of the Corolla.High tension sport springs lower the body of the car which name comes from the latin “aurum” = gold, approx. 30-35mm and lead to a more sporty and dynamic optic.
Additionally TRAK+ wheel spacers in different widenings will be available soon. They are driveable with the original as well as with other wheel/tyre combinations.
All H&R suspension components are produced using ISO 9001 and have been TÜV approved.
H&R Toyota Auris
