Toyota – Page 8 – Automobiles Review

Toyota showcases a leader wanna-be in the SUV segment. Check it out!

2016 Toyota C-HR SUV Toyota team is ready to unveil the latest and greatest C-HR, which eventually is to become brand’s symbol of commitment to delivering us ever-evolving high-quality vehicles.

So, what should we expect this time?

First of all, the new C-HR will mark a bold challenge towards other rivals as Qashqai, Kadjar, Yeti and HR-V. Thanks to the advanced New Global Architecture C-Platform, C-HR will come with super-low center of gravity that would result on balanced handling, less body roll and more pleasurable overall driving experience.

2016 Toyota C-HR SUV

Of course, the changes are marked by the refreshed exterior design. The vehicle features sweet diamond-themed design with tons of details: definitely looking bold, the body is also beautiful and muscular. Just look at this front face design! And the neat curves at the sides. And the distinctive wheel design. We do like this one. Definitely.

In terms of drivetrain system, C-HR gives customers the option of many drivetrain systems and combinations. There is this new generation of Toyota hybrid engines, a turbocharged petrol unit and wide choice of transmission systems.

Furthermore, Toyota offers three grades: Icon, Excel and Dynamic. The first one, the Icon comes with dual-zone automatic air conditioning, 17-inch alloy wheels, Toyota Touch 2 touch screen, reverse camera, front fog lamps and more.

Excel will offer high-quality leather seat upholstery, heated front seats, smart keyless entry, parking sensors, rear privacy glass, 18-inch alloys, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist.

2016 Toyota C-HR SUV

C-HR Dynamic adds this extra kick, as it comes to luxury and refinement. Building on the Excel trim level, this one brings metallic paint with contrasting black roof, exclusive 18-inch alloys, privacy glass, LED headlights and special upholstery fabric.

Definitely a promising model, this one really caught our eye! Stick with us for further information!

Source: Toyota

October 31, 2016

Toyota LandCruiser: it can get even better!

2017 Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series Toyota decided to take a closer look to the LandCruiser 70 Series single cab-chassis and has geared it with new contemporary features that include technology, utility gadgets and of course, comprehensive safety suite.

All 70 Series receive a fully electronic pack of vehicle stability control, active traction control, hill-start assist control, brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution. Cool, right? Further improvements include numerous power unit updates that contribute to better responsiveness and improved efficiency. Further updates include steering link located behind the front axle, 130-liter duel tank and two 90-liter tanks for the troop carrier. Sweet.

In fact, the 4.5-liter turbo-diesel V8 power unit has received new diesel particulate filter and piezo-electric injectors and now works in perfect harmony with the taller in second fifth gear.

Of course, Toyota team has marked the drivetrain improvements with some neat styling updates. Visually appealing, the 70 Series has a lot to showcase! First of all, there is a new WorkMate grade that brings new 16-inch wheels, revised suspension system and new frame.

There are also new 12 thicker body panels that not only enhance the muscular stance, but also contribute to greater passenger safety.

And the best part is that the vehicle is covered by Toyota Service Advantage capped-price. Sweet!

Source: Toyota

October 26, 2016

The new 2017 RAV4: what we know so far!

As it seems, Toyota team puts safety features first among all other, as it comes to new 2017 models. This is indeed the case with the latest RAV4 SUV: it will not only come with numerous utility and performance goodies, but it will feature comprehensive safety suite. Of course, we are talking about the Toyota Safety Sense thing that will be present on the new RAVs and also to all future SUV models that Toyota team reveals.

The Safety Sense thing means that the new RAV4 vehicle comes with a promise of reduced risk of collision and numerous warning signs. Just few of the additions include Pre-Collision System with autonomous braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beam operation and Road Sign Assist.

Furthermore, the engineering team makes one more important improvement: The Toyota Touch 2 with Go multimedia system has undergone some comprehensive improvement and now offers detailed information about many American roads, more sophisticated functions and new generation of 3D maps. Sweet.

Also, there are new personalization options that were just announced: buyers can specify the vehicle with a Premium Pack that brings hands-free power tailgate, a kick sensor beneath the bumper, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Oh, yeah. And a sun roof.

Also, there are two additional exterior colors: Silver Blade and Phantom Blue. Also, exclusively for the Icon and Excel grades there is this thing “full body” finish. This includes body-colored bumpers, wheel arches and contrasting front and rear under-runs. Cool.

This is what we know so far. Stick with us for further information!

Source: Toyota

October 18, 2016

2017 Toyota GT86: facelift done right!

2017 Toyta GT86 Pro Facelift Usually people start to maintain the machine that has earned them awards and positive feedback. But not Toyota team, though. The GT86 vehicle has been a thing of beauty and a fine example of refined drivetrain system, but the engineering team decided to add some more value to it. And here we are facing the new 2017 GT86 and we are simply amazed by what we are seeing.

Not just the usual “facelift” thing

There are, in fact, numerous additions and tweaks that not only enhance the sexiness of the car, but also contribute to better performance rates. First of all, there is this new Track mode. What it does is to bring fully driver-controlled balance ration between stability and traction control capabilities. Also, it can be fully disengaged. Sweet!

Enhanced style and aerodynamics

We definitely like the neat tweaks here and there onto the exterior. But these are not just visual improvements. All of these new features contribute to better aerodynamics and agility capabilities. Fans will also be pleased to see new teeth along the bottom edge of the lower grille, redesigned nose section and deeper rear bumper design. Definitely beautiful and also functional: all of these tweaks help for smoother air flow.

Interior changes

2017 Toyta GT86 Pro Facelift

There is new three-spoke steering wheel with smaller diameter, new 4.2-inch TFT infotainment display, new tachometer and.. this is it.

Additional equipment

Depending on the trim levels, buyers will get many different features. Offered in GT86 and GT86 Pro versions, the vehicle comes with a 197hp 2.0-liter boxer power unit, mated to a six-speed manual or optional automatic gearbox.

GT86 shows sweet 10-spoke 17-inch alloys, adaptive LED headlights and comes with cruise control, heated door mirrors, aluminum sporty pedals and high-performance brake discs.

On the other hand, GT86 Pro adds heated seats, leather Alcantara upholstery, leather driver’s armrest, rear spoiler finish in matt grey. Cool.

Source: Toyota

September 17, 2016

RAV4 will receive some neat updates for the upcoming season. Check ’em out!

2015 Toyota RAV4 Toyota team expands the safety features to eight of the overall 10 RAV4 models. There are going to be new autonomous braking additions and tons of hi-tech convenience goodies as satellite navigation and Toyota Link connectivity. So, let’s see what Toyota got for customers.

The new safety systems will be available as optional variant for the GX and GXL lineup, while it will be part of the standard equipment for the flagship Cruiser. In fact, buyers of the automatic petrol GXL will be pleased to know that along with the optional safety pack there is a little surprise: customizable dual-tone paint with silver accents on the bumpers, wheel arches door sills and side mirrors. Sweet.

2015 Toyota RAV4

In fact, there are changes in many dimensions: many of them will meet the new season year with new styling, revised interiors and new Euro5-complaint engines. There will be revised Cruise Control systems, Automatic high beam, Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist. Exclusive for the RAV4 GX remain satellite navigation, 4.2-inch color multi-function display, enriched instrument cluster and fog lights.

And what happens to the drivetrain system?

As we have told you, the range includes three four-cylinder power units that start with the agile 143hp (107kW) 2.0-liter petrol unit and finishes with either a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine or the 2.5-liter petrol unit with 176hp (132kW).

2015 Toyota RAV4

Also, there are not that big changes, as it come to gearbox systems: there is the usual six-speed manual and there is the trustworthy Multidrive S 7-speed CVT. All petrol AWD units will be geared with the manual one as a standard, but customers can specify their vehicle with the automatic transmission. In fact, the 7-speed CVT remains standard feature for the 2.0-liter petro Two-Wheel-Drive and the 2.2-liter diesel AWD models.

Source: Toyota

September 12, 2016

Yaris Orange Edition: necessary or unneeded summer toy?

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition Yaris, one of Toyota’s most popular models received a summer refresh. The Orange Edition will be recognized by the new orange (you don’t say!) metallic body finish and some noticeable and other not so noticeable tweaks made on the outside and the inside of the vehicle.

The bright exterior coloring completely matches the black details that include door mirror casings, rear pillar and side sills. In fact, the sills also feature a sweet chrome flash. The honeycomb-shaped grille is also covered in black matte, just like the sweet 16-inch machined-face alloys.

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition

The interior also received some tweaks. For example, the whole cabin is dominated by the so-called black-on-black theme: there are black headlining and instrument panel, fresh black and grey cloth upholstery and matching piano black finishes for the air vents, central console and gear knob. And the most important thing in a vehicle’s cabin, the mats welcome you with contrasting orange stitching. Sweet.

You may notice that the whole facelift is based on the Yaris Icon lineup, but with some slight changes and exclusive additions. Orange Edition buyers will be granted with Cruise Control System, Automatic Air Conditioning (hybrid model only), LED rear lights and rear spoiler. Of course, Toyota lovers won’t be deprived by Toyota’s Touch 2 multimedia system, rearview camera, projector headlights, LED daytime lights and front fog lights.

2016 Toyota Yaris Orange Edition

And the drivetrain system? The “Orange” can be ordered with three engines: a 1.33 VVT-i petrol with six-speed manual or automatic gearbox, a 1.4-liter D-4D diesel power unit with manual transmission and a 1.5-liter VVT-i petrol hybrid unit.

Toyota Yaris Orange Edition can already be ordered, but deliveries can be expected in August of this year. Prices start from $20,450 USD.

Source: Toyota

July 7, 2016

Toyota improves the 86 sports car based on victories at Nürburgring

Toyota 86 is made better through racing experience

So, this is the new old face of the popular 86 sports car. Toyota has just announced that it has made significant changes to the model, by applying the feedback from extensive racetrack experience. And this includes the data obtained from class victories at the famous 24 Hours of Nürburgring. To say it otherwise, the 86 facelift is the result of a lot of racing enjoinment for the testers, which is eventually going to bring about some pleasure to the regular owner, too.

Improved driving characteristics include better engine breathing that unleashes more power and torque, updated handling via revamped suspension and rigidity, advanced aerodynamics, steering stability and driver’s connectedness to the vehicle.

The revisions made to the engine components (including the intake and exhaust manifolds) actually result in a very pleasant uprate of power by 3.4 per cent. It is now 207 hp (152 kW) and 212Nm (156 lb-ft). By the way, the maximum torque of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine can be generated over a 200rpm wider range of engine speeds, precisely – from 6400 to 6800rpm. In addition, the torque curve is also better at low rpms.

2016 Toyota 86 Facelift underneath

Aerodynamics wise, they were actually a priority for the freshened exterior. They not only contribute to enhanced road holding, but also to better turning performance. To go into details, the 86 has a lower front, which features nose fins, foglamp bezel fins and small canards. Wing-like projections beneath the wider front grille and the LED headlamps, round out the transformation up front.

“We race. We learn. You win” is the motto of the 86 facelift development.

When speaking of better performance, one always thinks of wheels and tyres. In this case, Toyota 86 rides on brand new 17-inch alloys with twisted spokes, machine-cut highlights and gun-metal paint. Moving to the rear, it now comes with an wing-type spoiler, widened bumper with trapezoidal shape and combination of LED taillights.

2016 Toyota 86 Facelift interior

Toyota wouldn’t go without touching the interior a little bit. On the inside, the 86 is equipped with sportier steering wheel with 362mm diameter. This detail is actually hinting to the fact that it is the smallest ever used in a Toyota. Moreover, it has a cross-sectional shape, which contributes for an optimal grip, maneuverability and comfort.

On the revised tachometer can be viewed the 7,000rpm at the very top; and other driver aids include 4.2-inch thin-film transistor display showing important information, G-force meter and power and torque curves. At last, for those looking for a little bit of luxury in their sports car, Toyota is offering the optional black Grand Luxe high-quality suede-like material for the instrument panel and door trim.

The revamped Toyota 86 is going to go on sale by the end of the year.

Source: Toyota

July 5, 2016

Manga-inspired Toyota GT86 Initial D Concept pays tribute to the mid-80s AE86 Corolla

Car from Initial D manga comics is the inspiration for the GT86 concept

If you are into manga, then you have probably heard of the Initial D: cult Japanese comics, where the young hero, Takumi Fujiwara, drove a modified AE86. He honed his driving skills on mountain roads as delivery driver for his father’s tofu shop. As you can expect, the car immediately became a star, influencing the emerging drifting scene and inspiring a live action movie and various arcade games.

What’s even more exciting is that Toyota’s new GT86 project is inspired and based on the world-famous mid-80s AE86 Corolla featured in the series. Well, here’s a hint, since the GT86 was introduced in 2012, it was instantly recognized as the successor to the rear-wheel drive Corolla GT Coupe.

Now, Toyota is re-emphasizing this link with one-off project called GT86 Initial D concept. Besides the spirit, the car also mimics the livery of the Corolla featured in the comic book. Highlighting the pop-culture roots, the brand has made the fantastic decision to commission manga artist Sonia Leong to design a series of panoramic backdrops that put the real GT86 into comic strip action scenes.

Toyota GT86 Initial D Concept interior

The GT86 Initial D concept’s livery copies manga car’s panda-style monochrome outfit. In addition, it utilizes new versions of the same Japanese market components that were once on the successful original. Precisely, here are featured custom-made RS Watanabe alloy wheels, TRD suspension, a Fujitsubo exhaust system, Cusco strut brace, and a carbon fibre bonnet.

The yellow-tinted fog lights that were a trend back in the 80s haven’t been forgotten. They hint at the Cibié spotlights and the silver-painted engine cover. The latter features underneath high-revving 20-valve ‘Silver Top’ 4A-GE unit.

Modernized a little bit, the car sports carbon fibre door handle protectors and mirror covers. They give a similar effect to the black plastic material used on the AE86. Just like the Initial D car, this one features mud flaps and tinted rear lenses and no boot lid spoiler. Check out the details below for further inspiration.

All in all, this Toyota GT86 Initial D Concept acknowledges how important the AE86 was. Unfortunately, it won’t reach production, but still it will be attending motoring events around Britain throughout the summer. So, if you are lucky (and have the passport) you might end up having a glimpse on it.

Toyota GT86 Initial D Concept Technical Specifications:

Wheels	8 x 17″ (ET40) RS Watanabe F8 alloys with optional black finish
Suspension	TRD Sportivo suspension system
Exhaust	Fujitsubo Authorize S system
Bracing	Cusco Type OS front strut brace
Bonnet	Seibon OEM-style carbon fibre
Body graphics	Panda-style metallic black vinyl graphics
Detailing	Cusco carbon fibre door handle protectors, OEM carbon fibre mirror covers, OEM mud flaps, tinted rear lenses, tinted front fog lights, TRD oil filler cap, TRD high-pressure radiator cap, TRD push start button

Source: Toyota

June 30, 2016

Australian engineers pushed Toyota’s Land Cruiser to its limits. Check out what happened!

2016 Toyota LC70 Toyota’s engineers decided to put to the test the upcoming LandCruiser 70 series upgrade. The team decided to go for a rather long walk: more than 100,000 kilometers of driving in different harsh conditions around the country.

Furthermore, about 70 per cent of the tests and experiments were made in off-road conditions that included corrugated dirt roads and rugged cattle properties with severe washouts.

And the results? Well, they show that the vehicle will be even stronger with the adoption of a stiffer frame with thicker side rails. Engineers has also fine-tuned some of the safety features and therefore improved the stability and traction control for better off-road capabilities.

Also, all the 70 Series models, whether they are single or double cab-chassis, wagon or troop carrier, will be geared with these very same fine-tuned safety features, along with the hill-start assist control, trailer sway control, brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution and cruise control. How cool is that?

2016 Toyota LC70

In case you missed, the range comes with a 4.5-liter V8 turbo-diesel power unit with common-rail direct injection and special intercooler that meets all Euro5 ecology requirements. Some sweet additions include piezo injectors and refined manual gearbox with revised gearing that delivers better fuel economy and lower noise.

Source: Toyota

June 28, 2016

Toyota reveals first images and details about C-HR’s interior

Toyota applies new “sensual tech” design philosophy for the first time

Toyota C-HR remains remarkably true to the concept car that it is based on. Revealed back in 2015, the experimental SUV attracted widespread public acclaim at motor shows in Paris and Frankfurt. It is therefore no surprise that Toyota streamed the C-HR into a production variant. Now you can take a look at the emotional interior design it has as the Japanese brand is releasing the first images of the cabin. But before we jump into details, we must say that this SUV is very special for Toyota, since it represents its determination to allow greater stylistic freedom and promote engineering creativity. Nods for that!

In short, the cabin looks contemporary and original, and reflects what Toyota is calling the new “sensual tech” design philosophy. The goal of the latter is to combine high-tech functionality with a modern style.

The interior is spacious and creates a sense for airiness through the layered architecture of the instrument panel that continues through to the door trim via stylish ornamentation and a piano black panel. Speaking of the instrument panel, it will feature a 6.1-inch touch-screen and Toyota says that it will be more functional and easier to reach and the same is promised for the center console.

Toyota C-HR interior first image

The design of the seats, door trims, headliner and even the needles of the driver’s analogue instrument dials feature diamond scheme; while the other decorative elements are finished in high-quality piano black and satin silver.

Customers will have the option of purchasing features like the pre-collision system with autonomous braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert with steering control, automatic high beam and a reversing camera as well as heated seats, smart entry and start system, privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels and bi-tone metallic paintwork.

By the way, Toyota is making the link between interior and exterior via the addition of diamond-shaped switches, which reflect the diamond motif of the body shell. Speaking of which…

Some words about the exterior

Toyota C-HR rear view

Why the Toyota C-HR is unique? The answer is that it demonstrates the flexibility of the “Toyota New Global Architecture”. The SUV is positioned between the Corolla hatch and the RAV4, measuring 4350mm in length, 1795mm in width and 1550mm in height. The wheelbase is 2640mm.

The diamond architectural theme of the exterior is probably one of the most impressive designs we have seen on a production car lately. With its prominent and edgy wheel arches, the C-HR leaves the impression of strength and rigidity. The combination of a lowered body and raised ground clearance results in a slim and sleek coupe-like profile.

And there are two powertrain options

At last, we should mention that the C-HR will be offered as a hybrid as well as a full petrol vehicle. If one opts for the first variant, he or she will get the latest-gen hybrid powertrain with 120 hp (90 kW). The other option is the 1.2-litre turbo petrol unit, delivering 114 hp (85kW) and 185 Nm of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable Transmission. The latter features front or all-wheel drive.

Source: Toyota

June 28, 2016

Vans VS SUVs: a battle for convenience and comfort. On which side are you?

2015 Toyota Sienna Becoming more and more popular, SUVs are known for their sporty elegance, cutting edge technologies and versatile spirit. On the other hand, the good ol’ minivans remain favorite for all these who seek vast amount of space in exchange for some needless features. So, who should go for a minivan and who should go for a SUV? Let’s check out!

Recently, we have witnessed the unveiling of some neat minivans, such as Toyota’s Sienna and Honda’s Odyssey, both of which show contemporary styling and neat technologies. But let’s be honest here: minivans are still used for delivering large groups of people or large amount of cargo in exchange for some performance rates. Yes, you can store your groceries, ski equipment, your boy’s classmates, several spare tires, the new 50-inch TV, more groceries and your German Shepherd and there will be still plenty of interior space for like three other people, but you will lack this neat power boost and flexibility that a contemporary SUV offers.

On the other hand, we do see some titanic increases in the SUV segment sales. And there is a good reason for that: a fine SUV brings incredible utility, flexibility and features, for a reasonable amount of money. Of course, we have seen a lot of issues over the past ten years: poor fuel efficiency, some models have poor ride comfort and many of them are really hard to park.

Knowing that choosing between a SUV and a minivan is a difficult decision for a lot of people, we decided to give our “two cents” about both segments and help them choose wisely. The difficulties come from the fact that both types of vehicles undergo daily changes and can often offer quite neat and more preferable additions that what they offered two years ago.

2015 Honda Pilot

Although cargo capacity is a sort of leading feature, in present days this belief is abandoned. Although there are some large SUV models and some exceptions that are especially created to offer superior amounts of interior space, a conventional sports utility vehicle cannot match a conventional minivan.

In terms of safety, the majority of minivans and SUVs are geared with feasible safety features as tons of airbags, antilock brake systems, passive and active safety features and more. Technology has done well in both segments, but we should mention that a SUV still has a bigger rollover chance than a minivan.

Convenience features

When it comes to driving with children, many experts say that the minivan is the right choice. Becoming a sort of a playhouse on wheels, the vehicle offers enough space for the small ones to play, eat, stand and sleep. Needless to say that this is especially convenient in long road driving sessions.

2015 Kia Sedona

Other good thing is that most recently the competition between brands and minivans heats up a bit, so if you are on the market for a new minivan, you will be pleased to know that there are countless choices and combinations that can fit your style pretty neatly.

But what about the SUVs? More compact and badass-looking, the utility vehicles also bring one more big advantage. Especially if you have to deal with teenagers, or you are in your twenties and searching for your first sporty machine – style. You know we are not talking just for the exterior look. Plenty of the contemporary SUVs have that incredible appearance and unmatched spirit that definitely enhances driver’s confidence.

Also, many SUV drivers say that they feel safer, thanks to vehicle’s higher ride height and the comfortable seating. However, feeling safe or not, parking remains a pain in the butt. Especially with a supersize SUV in weekdays.

Conclusion

So, what should you get? Well, if you are dealing with kids, plenty of grocery bags and two or three dogs, the van is definitely for you. Fitting the family the family needs and everything you need in a single vehicle, the van is also preferred by people who had enough of wild parties, road trips and “fun”.

2015 Ford Explorer Platinum

SUV is the right choice for people who travel through mud and snow, and for these who still desire a bit of sportiness. Or for people want to impress their friends and neighbors, but want to remain agile and versatile with a single vehicle.

Source: BGO Media Team

June 21, 2016

Corolla celebrates its 50th anniversary with a rather special race! How cool is that?

1970 Toyota Corolla at the Great Race Race events become more and more interesting. And here comes one more interesting event: the Great Race. This is a long-distance endurance competition for vintage vehicles. It will start in Northern California and end in Moline. And there is one more interesting thing: Toyota’s participation is part of the Corolla’s 50th anniversary celebration! Needless to say, the racing team will be using a Corolla model. A rather special one.

This iconic first-generation 1970 Corolla sedan will join more than 130 vintage cars in the battle of the classics. The driver is Jamie Bestwick, a 13-time X Games gold medal winner in BMX Vert and a SCORE Baja 1000 veteran. And in order to pay tribute to the 1970’s, the whole team will be geared with special uniforms, while the car itself will remain true to its original specifications: what we see here is a trial by Toyota to show some oldschool quality and durability.

1970 Toyota Corolla at the Great Race

The event itself, the Great Race, features classic vehicles dating back to 1916 and starts in San Rafael, California and is expected to end in Moline on Sunday, June 26. The racers will follow the historic Lincoln Highway through Nevada, Udah, Wyoming, South Dakota and Iowa. And what about the winner? Well, the most “endurable” team will get a sweet trophy and a check for $50,000 USD.

Of course, each team will receive a set of course instructions that will lead them through key checkpoints. Also, racers will be joined by numerous guest navigators along the race, including the off-road racing champion BJ Baldwin, world-class snowboarders Amy Purdy, Elena Hight and Louie Vito, BMX rider Drew Bezanson, musician Mike Eldred, motorcross racer Andy Bell and many more. Sounds good, right?