Lexus Generation

Tokyo Preview: Lexus LF-Xh Hybrid Concept

Posted on Oct 10th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Concepts, Lexus, Toyota

Lexus LF-Xh Concept

At this month’s Tokyo Motor Show, Toyota will present the Lexus LF-Xh Hybrid Concept. The vehicle follows Lexus’ L-Finesse design philosophy and is equipped with a V6 hybrid engine and all-wheel-drive. Could this be the next generation Lexus SUV? Maybe, it sure looks promising.

Full Gallery: Lexus LF-Xh Concept
Lexus LF-Xh Concept Lexus LF-Xh Concept Lexus LF-Xh Concept Lexus LF-Xh Concept

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Toyota Corolla Rumion launched in Japan

Posted on Oct 9th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Toyota
Toyota Corolla Rumion

Here’s the Toyota Corolla Rumion, which Japanese customers will be able to buy starting today. The car, which has Toyota’s simple ‘relax in style’ design is the Japanese version of the scion xB and has two engine choices. The first one is a 1.5-liter VVT-i engine (143 g/km CO emissions) and the second one is a 1.8-liter Dual VVT-I (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent) engine, which produces 151g/km of CO2 (10% less than Japanese regulations).

The Corolla Rumion will feature Toyota’s safety technologies, like SRS airbags, WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) front seats, an advanced GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) collision-safety body, Eco Driving Indicator lights, Super CVT-i (Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent) and Smart Entry & Start System among others.

Priced at yen 1,680,000 (about 10,000 EUR or $14,300) and going all the way up to yen 2,310,000 (14,000 EUR or $21,000), Toyota hopes to sell 3,500 units per month. View more photos after the jump.
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Tokyo Preview: Toyota 1/X Concept

Posted on Oct 10th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Concepts, Toyota

Toyota 1/X Concept

As we said before, with the Tokyo Show close, we’re gonna be invaded with Asian concepts. After yesterday we’ve presented the Honda Puyo and the Honda Cr-Z Concept, today we’re gonna have a whole bunch of them. Here’s the first one, the Toyota 1/X Concept. The car, which looks a lot like the current Prius, is a concept vehicle that “maintains an interior space on par with that of the Prius.” Using carbon fiber reinforced plastic, Toyota engineers managed to reduce the weight of the Toyota 1/X concept to about one-third that of the Prius.

The 1/X uses fossil fuel (FFV) technology and a plug-in hybrid powertrain and is powered by a 500cc motor that allows charging from an external power source. Toyota says that the 1/X has a long electric-motor cruising range and while have low CO2 emissions. More photos after the jump.
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Spy shots of the facelifted Toyota Prius

Posted on Sep 27th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Spy Shots, Toyota

Toyota Prius Facelift

Because developing the new battery technology will take Toyota a little more than they expected, the next generation Toyota Prius was delayed and Toyota is preparing a facelift for the current model, to spice it up a little. As we can see from these spy photos, the facelifted Prius features a new front part with new headlamps and grille and a new cut line in the hood. View more photos after the jump.
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2008 Toyota LandCruiser US pricing announced

Posted on Sep 21st, 2007 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

2008 Toyota Landcruiser

Already made official, the 2008 Toyota Landcruiser will be presented on October 11, at the Sydney International Motor Show. And, in a press release made today, Toyota also announced the US pricing, which will start at $63,200, almost $7,000 more than the previous model.

The Landcruiser will come equipped with Toyota’s 5.7-liter V8 engine, which, mated with a automatic six-speed transmission delivers 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. Maximum towing capacity is 8,500 pounds, an increase of 2,000 pounds over the previous model. The 2008 Toyota Landcruiser will hit showrooms in the second part of October. View a photo gallery after the jump and the official press release.
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Lexus Generation

Toyota sues porn producers over the ‘Lexus’ name

Posted on Dec 9th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
2 Comments Category: Lexus, Toyota

Lexus Porn Lawsuit

Ok, I have to admit, this is some really weird news. Toyota has taken legal action and sent a ‘cease and desist’ letter to EBoys, a porn company, for using the Lexus name in their movies. Apparently, one of EBoys’ stars is some dude whose screen name is Lexus Cash and which has features some ‘man-on-man’ pornographic movies, whose titles we really don’t wanna know.

Of course, EBoys doesn’t agree with Toyota, who wants to recall two movies featuring Mr. Cash. The porn company’s president, Daniel Grangier stated that the performer’s name comes the Greek god, Lexus and has nothing to do with Toyota’s luxury brand. He also said that his attorneys are now looking for a solution in this case. However, I think that Toyota did more harm to themselves by making this public, especially because no one would’ve probably ever know of the existence of Lexus Cash if it wasn’t for this scandal.

264,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles recalled

Posted on Nov 29th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Recalls, Toyota

Toyota Lexus Recall

Toyota announced that it will recall 264,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles built between December 2003 and December 2005, due to some problems occurred at the fuel pipes which could cause fuel leaks. The problem affects 215,020 Toyota Crown and Mark X and about 49,000 Lexus GS and IS models. Most vehicles recalled were sold in Japan, United States, Britain and Canada. So, if you own one of these cars, you’d better go to your dealer once you receive Toyota’s notice.

New Toyota Celica coming in 2009

Posted on Nov 22nd, 2007 by Vlad Balan
15 Comments Category: Toyota

Toyota Celica

With the production discontinued in 2005, the Toyota Celica will make a comeback in 2009, according to Toyota German Chief, Markus Schrick. This is good news, because I really liked the last generation of this car, which was a real cool and affordable coupe. Nothing sure so far, but it seems the new Toyota Celica will be built on a RWD platform and, even though Schrick said it will only be available in Europe, US customers might also see this car in showrooms.

So, what do you think of the return of the Celica? I definitely am excited. Leave a comment here.
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2057 Toyota BioMobile Mecha Concept

Posted on Oct 12th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
14 Comments Category: Concepts, Toyota

Toyota BioMobile Mecha Concep

Toyota lost its mind. After presenting the i-REAL wheelchair Concept, here’s the Toyota Mecha Concept, which is scheduled to be released in 2057 (probably in the spring…or summer…or winter…do you really care?). This is crazy, right? Except that it’s not like this, the Mecha Concept was created for the Design Challenge at the upcoming L.A. AutoShow.

And here’s what Toyota was thinking about when they created these designs:

“It is year 2057 and due to limited ground space, vertical architectures have caused the transportation industry to create new pathways that also explore vertical space. An innovative solution is discovered in biomimicry. Inspired by life found in nature, the vehicle is powered by pollution with dynamic driving instincts and structural adaptations to accommodate the user’s need for space.

This vehicle’s unique capability to extract pollutants in the air and utilize it as an energy space source restores balance to our atmosphere. It is able to autonomously adapt its driving environment by utilizing its four nano-laser wheels. Nanotechnology also enables the structure of the vehicle to expand and contract horizontally and vertically to serve as a compact commuter, an aerodynamic performance vehicle and temporary dwelling”

Cool, huh? It’s a good thing Toyota thought about fixing the pollution issue, only one small problem…2057 might be a little too late. View more designs after the jump.
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Read More: "Tokyo Preview: Toyota i-REAL Concept"
Tokyo Preview: Toyota Rin Concept

Posted on Oct 11th, 2007 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Concepts, Toyota

Toyota Rin Concept

Also scheduled to be presented at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show is this, the Toyota Rin Concept. Looking like a golf cart from the future, the concept is Toyota’s attempt to turn the drivers’ attention “to society and nature, producing a healthy rhythm for both mind and body”. Yeah, right!

Anyway, here’s an excerpt from Toyota’s press release, to give you an idea of what they were thinking about when they designed it. After that, click on the ‘Read More’ link to see more photos of the Toyota Rin Concept.

# In addition to featuring comfortable, heated seats, an oxygen-level conditioner and pinpoint humidifier, uses green glass that reduces infiltration of ultraviolet and infrared light and makes the surroundings seem brighter and clearer to increase cabin comfort.
# Creates a feeling of harmony with the surrounding environment by using sliding doors with a low window that lets you view nature at ground level, as well as headlights with light distribution control that take into consideration pedestrians and vehicles coming in the opposite direction.
# Uses the motif of the deep-rooted and tall-growing Yakusugi tree (a variety of Japanese cypress) for its exterior and interior design to express both “harmony with nature” and “healthy mind and body”.
# Contrasts deep green with beige in its interior color scheme to richen the complexions of those onboard and evoke a healthy mental and physical feeling.

Read More: "Tokyo Preview: Toyota Rin Concept"

THE NEXT GENERATION OF TOYOTA

The next generation Toyota Prius

Posted on Jul 2nd, 2008 by psaico
2 Comments Category: Toyota

Next Generation Toyota Prius

Everyone knows about the Toyota Prius, the hybrid car, but not everyone knows very much about it. Well, in short terms, if everyone would have a Prius then the world could cleaner, dryer, relaxed, more silenced, and many more. But imagine the next generation of Toyota Prius, with a larger engine, more efficient, faster, cleaner and greener. This car will have a big launch at the Detroit auto show in January 2009.

Even America has fallen for this car and in a big way. There’s no doubt about that and through an extraordinary combination of style and engineering, this hybrid car remains the absolute gold standard for eco cars.

The next generation will have a bigger impact and that’s because it will be a touch bigger and offering more space and it will be stronger with a 1.8 liter hybrid performance.

January 2009 will mark the point at with Prius will change gear and moves up to the next level. Till now, this hybrid car was just one of its kind, just one model, but Toyota plans to spice up the action and will come with different Prius models as it closes it on its bid to be making over 1 million cars pers year till 2010.

NCE takes down Toyota Prius’ top

Posted on May 6th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Toyota

Toyota Prius Convertible by NCE

Though successful, the Toyota Prius is not the best looking car out there and we’re sure the last you’d expect was a convertible version of the car. However, Newport Convertible Engineering’s (NCE) thought that all those environment lovers out there driving a Prius would like to feel a little more freedom and decided to take down the car’s top and replace it with a fabric one. We don’t really dig those remaining windows frames, but we’re sure they were left there with a purpose. What do you think, you like it?

Check out more photos after the jump.

PS: Not really related to the article, but I don’t know why, everytime I see a Prius, I remember Achmed’s words and I laugh: “That is not a car but a lunch box. Did you know when you’re going down the highway in a Prius if you put your hand down the window the vehicle will tuuurn?”

Read More: "NCE takes down Toyota Prius’ top"

Tax incentives for hybrids dropping

Posted on Jul 2nd, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Honda, Hybrid, Toyota

Honda Civic Hybrid Taxes

With gas prices exploding, hybrids became very popular in the United States and are selling like crazy. However, we might see these cars’ prices rising, because some of these no longer qualify for the tax break or are about to see it reduced sharply. Affected by this measure are the three most popular hybrids sold in America, the Honda Civic hybrid, the Toyota Prius and the Toyota Camry hybrid.

After last fall the Prius and the Camry saw their $3,150 tax credits disappear, the Honda Civic hybrid’s tax credit was cut in half, starting Tuesday, July 1st, from $1,050 to $525. This happened after the original $2,100 tax credit was cut in half in January.

According to the 2005 federal law that established the hybrid credit, the tax break begins to phase out after a manufacturer sells 60,000 qualifying vehicles. Because of heavy demand for the Prius, Toyota reached that benchmark early in the program, and tax breaks for its Toyota and Lexus brand hybrids were gone by October 2007.

This tax credit cuts are not very popular, with a lot of people believing that the government should support hybrid sales, not increase the taxes. “We need to be reducing our dependence on oil, so why are we taking away something that will encourage people to do that?” asked Ailis Aaron Wolf, spokeswoman for the advocacy group 40mpg.org, which wants to raise mileage standards.

So, what will happen next? Will hybrid sales drop? Honestly, with gas prices skyrocketing, I don’t think so, on the contrary.
Read More: "Tax incentives for hybrids dropping"

New York 08: Scion Hako Concept

Posted on Mar 20th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

Scion Hako Concept

After we’ve seen the Porsche Traveller design study and now the Scion Hako Concept, we’re beginning to ask ourselves if the designers aren’t in some kind of designers strike (after the writer’s guild model). Because these concepts have some faces only their mothers would love.

The Scion Hako was inspired by the Scion xB and it’s a bizzare mixture of cubic and curvy. Plus, it seems that the designers never heard the “aerodynamics” term, because the concept is probably as aerodynamic as a brick. Not to mention this hilarious part from the press release: “the silhouette is accentuated by slim, race-car-inspired side mirrors”. Yeah, right!

There are no drivetrain specs, because, fortunately, the Scion Hako Concept is only a design study and we don’t want to be mean, but we hope we’ll never see it on the street.

See more photos after the jump.

Read More: "New York 08: Scion Hako Concept"

Redesigned Toyota Crown plus hybrid version launched in Japan

Posted on Feb 19th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Hybrid, Toyota

Redesigned Toyota Crown for Japan

Toyota announced today that the redesigned Toyota Crown, Royal Saloon and Athlete versions, will go on sale in Japan today and they’ve also announced the new Crown Hybrid, which will be launched on May 9.

The Crown Royal Saloon and the Crown Athlete will be available with V6 3.0 liter and V6 2.5 liter engine, mated to a 6 Super ECT (Super Intelligent Electronically-controlled, Six-speed Automatic Transmission) and DRAMS (Driving Response and Acceleration Management System). All engines feature Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing Intelligent) to optimize intake and exhaust valve timing according to driving conditions.

The Toyota Crown Hybrid features rear-wheel drive THS II (Toyota Hybrid System II) with a two-stage motor speed reduction which “provides the driving performance of a 4.5-liter vehicle with the low fuel consumption of a 2.0-liter vehicle”. The propulsion system features a combination of a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with a high-performance electric motor. Also, by pressing a button, the vehicle will only use the electric engine.

Toyota hopes to sell monthly 5,500 units, including 800 hybrid cars. Click ‘read more’ to see more details on the Toyota Crown in the full press release and to check out more photos of the car.

Read More: "Redesigned Toyota Crown plus hybrid version launched in Japan"


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Gold plated Toyota Camry

Posted on Aug 4th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
3 Comments Category: Special, Toyota

Gold plated Toyota Camry

Gold plated cars are not something new. Every once in a while we get to see one of these showing up, reminding us that there are a lot of people out there that got nothing better to do with their money than extremely pimping up a car. This 24k gold plated Toyota Camry is no exception. Of course, as you probably imagine, the owner comes from Dubai and the car is for sale for 135,000 AED ($36,800 or €23,700). However, one thing bothers me. If you want to show off, why in the world would you choose a Toyota Camry? Weird.

Check out more photos after the jump.

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New spy photos of the next generation Toyota Prius

Posted on Jul 31st, 2008 by Andrey
No Comments Category: Green, Hybrid, Spy Shots, Toyota

New Toyota Prius Spy

We all know the Toyota Prius, it’s the most popular hybrid car out there, having conquered almost everyone with it’s eco-friendly nature, being the car to have if you want to help the planet. One thing though has received mixed oppinions, the design, people saying very different things about the exterior of the car.

Recently some spy shots appeared of a presumed facelift to the Prius, but it would now seem that it wasn’t just a facelift, Toyota planning a totaly new body for their top notch hybrid. Although there have been talks about the new generation of the Prius, even a launch date of January 2009 at the Detroit MotorShow being fronted, new rumours state that this new model will be available around 2010.

This new model will be wider and longer, leaving more space for the passengers in the back and for the trunk. This new space would ultimately be used to develop more vehicles based on this new Prius, and according to Jim Lentz, Toyota USA President, we might see body versions from 2-door coupe to wagon or commuter car. But the design hasn’t been the only thing that Toyota engineers have taken care of, the fuel economy is expected to improve, so is the top speed. Also the NiMh batteries which now power the Prius will be replaced by lighter and smaller Li-ion ones in the effort to increase storage space.

Read More: "New spy photos of the next generation Toyota Prius"

Toyota is officially number 1

Posted on Jul 25th, 2008 by Raul
No Comments Category: General Motors, Sales, Toyota

Toyota Sales

Its official: GM is no longer the world’s largest automobile manufacturer. Toyota sold 4.8 m vehicles in the first half of 2008, while GM managed to move 4.54m. Higher U.S. gas prices have “put an enormous amount of pressure” on GM’s truck sales, said Erich Merkle, an automotive consultant with accounting and consulting firm Crowe Chizek and Co LLC. “That is equating to lower sales for GM and causing them to now fall behind Toyota.” GM and Toyota were roughly even in 2007 for the top spot among the world’s automakers, with GM slightly ahead if sales from a China business were included.

GM’s sales in North America fell to 963,929 vehicles in the second quarter from 1.2 million, hurt by the slow U.S. economy and labor disruptions in the U.S. market, the company said. Sales in Latin America, Africa and the Middle East rose 17.7 percent, while sales in its Asia-Pacific region grew 14.6 percent, GM said. Sales rose 2.5 percent in Europe. Mike DiGiovanni, GM’s chief sales analyst, said most of the industry’s sales increase is expected to be in the so-called BRIC countries — Brazil, Russia, India and China.” Certainly the biggest risk is the U.S. economic downturn and potential spill-over effects on the global economy,” he said.
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Toyota RAV4 has a sporty side: the SR180

Posted on Jul 23rd, 2008 by Razvan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

Toyota RAV4 SR180

This is some news for most of you, isn’t it ? RAV4 has been a great combination between on road and off road abilities. However it has a bland image. Not anymore ! The new Toyota RAV4 SR180 aims to bring the sporty looks as well to the model.

It’s meant to be an affordable high performance alternative. It has a 175 bhp, six speed transmission, together with a diesel engine. Which should mean that it is economical as well. The Rav4 SR180 gets to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds.

The starting price is around $46,000. The list of standard equipment is long and it includes 18 inch alloys, run flat tires, dark-tinted headlamps,
Integrated Active Driving, Bluetooth connectivity, dark tinted glass, fog lamps, cruise control and a lot more. There are also a lot of personalization options.
Read More: "Toyota RAV4 has a sporty side: the SR180"

Toyota gives up on next gen Lexus SC and Avalon

Posted on Jul 14th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Lexus, Toyota

Lexus SC 430

According to Inside Line, Toyota is planning on canceling the next generation Lexus SC and the Camry-based Avalon. The decision to drop the Lexus SC was caused by the slow sales of the model, in the first six month of 2008 Laxus managing to sell only 1,230 units (40 percent less than last year). Priced at $67,120, the SC is powered by a 288 hp 4.3 liter V8, which averages 16 mpg (city) and 23 mpg (highway). And with the current rising gas prices the car was doomed, especially with Lexus preparing the LF-A sports car, based on the same RWD platform.

As for the Avalon, because the next-generation 2012 Camry is well underway, Toyota is having serious doubts on whether to continue Avalon production or not and may opt to produce a long-wheelbase Camry for such markets as North America and the Middle East.
Read More: "Toyota gives up on next gen Lexus SC and Avalon"

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2008 Paris Special: The new Toyota Avensis

Posted on Oct 8th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

New Toyota Avensis Paris Motor Show

At the Paris Motor Show, one of the premieres from the Toyota stand was the Toyota Avensis sedan.Toyota’s European flagship was designed at the Toyota European Design Development centredeveloped by a team of European and Japanese engineers, and its main market will be the old continent. Available both in sedan and wagon version, the new Avensis looks way better than the current generation and, considering Toyota’s known quality, the car will probably be a success.

Under the hood, the new Avensis will be available with a range of fuel efficient petrol and diesel engines. The petrol engines offer will include three new engines, an 132 hp 1.6 liter unit, an 147 hp 1.8 liter and a top of the range 2.0 liter Valvematic that delivers 152 hp and 196 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm. CO2 emission levels range from 152 g/km for the 1.6 liter and 164 g/km for the 2.0 liter version equipped with the Multidrive S transmission. Two diesel units will also be available, an 126 hp 2.0 liter D-4D engine and a 2.2-litre D-4D units that delivers 150 hp and 340 Nm between 2,000 and 2,800 rpm and which will be available with a brand-new 6-speed automatic transmission.

For the full info on the new Toyota Avensis, check out the press release. Also, here are the photos we took at the Paris show.

Photo Gallery: The new Toyota Avensis at the Paris Motor Show

New Toyota Avensis Paris Motor Show New Toyota Avensis Paris Motor Show New Toyota Avensis Paris Motor Show New Toyota Avensis Paris Motor Show

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First details on the Toyota Hilux facelift

Posted on Aug 14th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

Toyota Hilux Facelift

The facelift for the Toyota Hilux is almost out and here are the first details on the car, posted on the Toyota Malaysian website. From what we can see in this photo, the pickup truck got new wing mirrors with signal indicators, restyled front bumper, new front grille and new alloy wheels. According the website, nothing’s changed on the engine, the same 2.5 liter D4-D engine that develops 102 hp at 3,600rpm and 260Nm of torque between 1,600rpm to 2,400rpm.

Read More: "First details on the Toyota Hilux facelift"

Toyota to present the Avensis Sedan at Paris

Posted on Sep 1st, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Toyota

Toyota Avensis Sedan

Besides the IQ minicar and the Urban Cruiser crossover, Toyota is also planning on showing the Avensis Sedan for the first time, next month at the Paris Motor Show. We don’t know for sure whether the next generation Avensis will also get five-door hatchback and estate wagon models, but Toyota will definitely let us know after the French debut, including full specs and pricing. All we know is that the car will be built at the Burnaston plant in Derbyshire, UK. Stay tuned because we’ll be there at Paris and we’ll let you once we get more details.

Read More: "Toyota to present the Avensis Sedan at Paris"

2009 Toyota Yaris US pricing announced

Posted on Aug 7th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
2 Comments Category: Toyota

2009 Toyota Yaris US

Last week, Toyota USA announced the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2009 Toyota Yaris. The subcompact car from the Japanese producer will be available in three body styles: sedan, three-door Liftback, and an all-new five-door liftback, each in Base and Sporty “S” grades. Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 29 mpg city/35 mpg highway/31 mpg combined for all three body styles with an automatic transmission and 29/36/32 mpg for the manual transmission models.

All Yaris grades will now feature a number of standard safety features, including anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), driver and front passenger front seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags. New exterior colors for the 2009 Yaris include Zephyr Blue Metallic and Blue Streak Metallic on Sedan and Yellow Jolt and Carmine http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carmine Red Metallic on Liftback.

Prices for the Yaris three-door Liftback models range from $12,205 for the Base grade with four cylinder engine and manual five-speed transmission to $14,825 for the S grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new five-door Liftback model prices range from $13,305 for the Base grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission to $15,125 for the S grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

Yaris Sedan model pricing ranges from $12,965 for the Base grade with four cylinder engine and manual five-speed transmission to $15,880 for the S grade with four cylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission.

Epitome of bad taste: Arabian Toyota Landcruiser

Posted on Aug 6th, 2008 by Andrey
1 Comment Category: Other Carmakers, Toyota

Toyota SUV Ugly

They say money can’t buy good taste, but this Toyota Landcruiser is the embodiment of bad taste. I agree that people want to be unique, to express their own personality through the objects that they own but the lenght some people go to make their cars unique, to know that there isn’t any car like their’s on the road is sometimes pretty scary. This car, which seems to be licensed to one of the United Arab Emirates, can easily be mistaken for an alien vehicle or one from the future, a future i won’t like to live in though.

Read More: "Epitome of bad taste: Arabian Toyota Landcruiser"

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Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning package by Wald International

Posted on Mar 20th, 2009 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota, Tuning

Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International

Rappers all around the world rejoice! We usually like the tuning programs from Japanese tuner Wald International but auch, this one makes our eyes hurt. The Toyota Land Cruiser V8 is one big beast, we know that because we had the chance to test drive it last year, and giving at a sporty and aggressive is just…wrong! The Black Bison package features new, huge front bumper, side skirts, rear apron with integrated diffuser, roof wing and new alloy wheels. Unless you’ve got an exaggerated ego and really like to get noticed, we don’t see any reason why anyone would buy this package.

Photo Gallery: Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning by Wald International
Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International

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Toyota considers bringing back the MR2 to rival Honda’s upcoming CR-Z

Posted on Mar 19th, 2009 by Vlad Balan
3 Comments Category: Toyota

Future Toyota MR2

Introduced in 1984, the Toyota MR2 has been a real success for the Japanese carmaker and many car enthusiasts loved the small sports car. However, Toyota decided to cut down its selection of sports cars and replace them with less aggressive “sports packages”, which meant the MR2 production ended in 2007.

But now there’s some great news coming from AutoExpress who have spoken with Toyota’s executive VP, Masatami Takimoto at the Geneva Motor Show and found out that the company is currently working on a small hybrid sports car, which will wear the MR2 name tag and which will rival the upcoming Honda CR-Z: “We are aware of the fondness with which the MR2 is held in the UK and Europe, and are developing a small hybrid sports car. We have set a tough price point (expected to be around £20,000), as it will be easier to sell if it is affordable. It has to be fun to drive, too, which means the hybrid set-up must be different to the Prius’s, with greater responsiveness.”

AutoExpress also mentions that the new MR2 will have a compact coupe shape and, if developed properly, could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds and could return 60 mpg and less than 100 g/km CO2 emissions. Toyota didn’t say anything about when can we expect to see at least a concept of this car, but we don’t think this car is a priority, the company focusing now on family hybrids, a lot of launches being scheduled for the next 12 months.

Read More: "Toyota considers bringing back the MR2 to rival Honda’s upcoming CR-Z"

Photo Gallery: Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept

Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept

Read More: "Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept debuts at the LA Auto Show"
Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award
Posted on Nov 13th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Citroen, News, Nissan, Toyota

Japanese Car of the Year Awards

Yesterday, the final results for the Japanese Car of the Year were announced and, surprisingly or not, the Toyota iQ is the big winner. The mini car from Toyota managed to take home the award after polling more then 300 than the second place, who went to the Citroen C5. The Nissan GT-R joined them on the podium, taking the third place. For this competition, 65 jurors had 25 votes to give to five vehicles, each juror giving 10 votes to his/her top-rated car before giving the remaining 15 votes to the next four vehicles. The iQ managed to get 10 points from 39 of the jurors. Other awards that were given were for Most Advanced Technology, which went to the GT-R, for Most Fun car (Subaru Exiga) and Best Value (Honda Freed). And here’s the top 10 (the last two were considered a tie) cars nominated and the points they scored.

1. Toyota iQ - 526 points
2. Citroen C5 - 223 points
3. Nissan GT-R - 201 points
4. Audi A4/A4 Avant - 180 points
5. Jaguar XF - 115 points
6. Daihatsu tanto - 100 points
7. Fiat 500 - 90 points
8. Honda Freed - 62 points
9. Mazda Atenza - 60 points
10. The Suzuki Wagon R / Wagon R STINGRAY - 37 points
11. Subaru Exiga - 31 points

Read More: "Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award"

Read More: "Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award"

Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?
Posted on Nov 11th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

Toyota Cheap Car

According to some recent reports, the Japanese giant Toyota is planning on building a $5,000 car aimed at emerging markets. While Tata was in the center of attention with its Nano, its problems with the plants in India significantly delayed the project. Toyota wants to take advantage of that, and even though the car’s pricing is much higher than the $2,000 Nano, the ultra cheap car from Toyota will probably be a lot better. According to Japanese newspaper Asahi, the car will be co-developed with Daihatsu and will be built in Bangalore, India, where Toyota already has a plant and plans on opening another one in 2010. The bad news is that the car won’t make it into production until at least 2015.

Toyota is not the only one carmaker trying to explore the emerging markets, with Renault-Nissan group already reaching an agreement with Indian company Bajaj Auto regarding a $2,500 car which is scheduled to be released by 2011.

Read More: "Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?"

Read More: "Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?"

Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image headed for SEMA
Posted on Oct 20th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Toyota, Tuning

Toyota Venza Tuning Street Image

The Toyota Venza Sportlux, which will be on display at this year’s SEMA Show, is based on the new 2009 Venza and it shows Street Image’s vision of a vehicle that could be offered as a factory tuned model. We don’t know if Toyota will consider this model, but the mods are pretty cool. The body kit features six piece lip kit enhancement, rear hatch spoiler, integrated hood scoop, custom grille, mirror turn signals and dual center exiting stainless steel exhaust, plus 24 inch Chrome Cognac No 20 wheels. Mechanical upgrades include a TRD supercharger, oil filler cap and high pressure radiator cap, cold air intake system, Hose Techniques silicone vacuum hose, couplers and t-bolt clamps, a height adjustable coil over suspension and new TRD Big Brakes (15 inch diameter for the front wheels and 13.6 for the rear) with TRD forged calipers.

Of course, the interior also got some attention from Street Image, with seating in black and burgundy leather upholstery, accent upholstery in black suede, headliner and sun visors and steering wheel upholstered in black leather plus top of the line in car entertainment system.

Read More: "Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image headed for SEMA"

Best cheap Hybrid cars

Thursday, March 19, 2009
Prius top compact according to JD Power
Toyota Prius most dependable compact according to JD Power.Prius reliability still tops

The Toyota Prius isn't just the most fuel efficient hybrid on the road today, it's also one of the most dependable vehicles available according to JD Power. The Prius took the top spot amongst compact cars in the latest JD Power rankings.

In terms of hybrid cars, the Lexus RX400h was a runner up in the midsize premium category.

Labels: Hybrid Vehicles, lexus rx400h, toyota prius

posted by Dahcredyns at 8:38 AM 2 Comments







Toyota developing sporty hybrid to challenge CR-Z
Toyota and Honda escalating their hybrid war. When will US automakers get serious about hybrid cars?Honda's upcoming CR-Z hybrid

Not only is Toyota going to develop a compact hybrid - smaller than the current Prius - that will be cheaper than the Honda Insight, but the hybrid king will also develop a sporty hybrid, based off the MR2, to challenge the Honda CR-Z hybrid according to recent reports.

Love seeing this emerging hybrid battle heat up between Honda and Toyota, but I'd sure love to see a US automaker join the war.

Labels: honda cr-z hybrid, honda insight hybrid, toyota prius

posted by Dahcredyns at 8:05 AM 0 Comments






Tuesday, March 17, 2009
LA Times slams hybrid car sales
LA Times questions future of hybrid vehicles because hybrid sales have fallen from summer highs. President Obama called this kind of thinking irresponsible today. Plus, the two most anticipated hybrid cars are not even on the market yet.Insight will lift hybrid sales

Hybrid car sales go from 60 to 0 at breakneck speed, writes the LATimes this morning.

Hmmm. Buy a Civic hybrid today, or wait a couple of months for a cheaper, cooler Honda Insight hybrid? Or, buy a Toyota Prius today, or wait until a bigger, faster, more fuel efficient Prius becomes available in a couple of months while waiting out a recession?

Certainly, hybrid sales have dropped significantly since this summer, but summer sales were driven by the irrational exuberance created by relatively sudden $4.00 gas. With gas prices cut in half, and consumers facing a recession, one would expect a burst of the hybrid bubble. Nonetheless, gas prices will go back up in the next few years. Thinking otherwise is foolish.

In fact, this morning President Obama called such thinking "irresponsible" while addressing the dangers of foreign oil dependency. And, truthfully, if Americans paid the real cost of oil dependency at the pump, the cost of gas would already be very supportive of significantly higher hybrid sales.

Still, sales of hybrid vehicles will pick up in the next few months, as the two most important cars in the hybrid market come to market. Compare those sales to when gas was $3.00 and I think a far different picture of hybrid sales will emerge.

Labels: honda civic hybrid, honda insight hybrid, hybrid vehicle sales, Hybrid Vehicles, toyota prius

posted by Dahcredyns at 6:54 AM 4 Comments








Friday, March 13, 2009
New Toyota hybrid cheaper than Honda Insight
Toyota already set to challenge Honda as the cheapest hybrid producer. Toyota will sell a new hybrid that is smaller than the Prius and cheaper than the Insight hybrid.Toyota's ultra cheap hybrid?

For quite a while I've been calling out Toyota to come up with a small, cheap city Prius. A compact hybrid used mostly for city commuting when extra seating is rarely needed.

Well, Toyota might not have listened to me, but the buzz around the cost of the Honda Insight has gotten to the hybrid car king. According to reports, Toyota plans to sell a compact hybrid by 2011 - at least in Japan - that will offer a smaller engine than the Prius and a smaller price tag.

Finally, competition in the hybrid cars segment isn't just heating up, it's brewing new ideas and innovations.

Labels: honda insight hybrid, Hybrid Vehicles, toyota prius

posted by Dahcredyns at 12:23 PM 5 Comments







Can Honda sell 100,000 Insight hybrids in this market?
The Honda Insight is set to challenge the king of hybrid cars, the Toyota Prius. Still, can the Insight hybrid sell 100,000 units per year in this economy?Recession-fighter?

Had Honda launched the fantastically aerodynamically designed Insight hybrid at this time last year, it would have been impossible for Honda to match demand.

This year, however, is a whole different matter. Cheaper gas, a dead car buyers market, and a deep recession make the car business a bad business to be in these days.

Still, the Honda Insight is something different. The Insight isn't just the closest thing to a Toyota Prius contender - the undisputed kind of hybrid cars - it's significantly cheaper than the Prius. And, while the Insight isn't as fuel efficient as the Prius in all driving conditions, it's lower sticker price makes it a formidable challenge.

Nonetheless, with a third gen Prius just around the corner, coupled with current economics, selling 100,000 Insights won't be easy, or will it?

Labels: honda insight hybrid, Hybrid Vehicles, toyota prius

posted by Dahcredyns at 10:35 AM 5 Comments