The Toyota GT 86 has been conceived as an entirely driver-focused machine, designed to deliver the core qualities of the classic sports car experience. That means precise, instant response to the smallest throttle and steering inputs and the kind of performance that appeals to those for whom driving is a passion, not a necessity.
The Toyota GT 86 is built on a new platform, with a highly aerodynamic bodyshell stretched tight over the car's mechanical elements. Rather than fitting a heavy, large capacity powertrain, Toyota has opted instead to go back to its sporting roots, installing a compact, front-mounted, free-revving petrol engine that drives the rear wheels.
This four-cylinder "boxer" unit generates 197bhp at 7,000rpm and maximum torque of 205Nm at 6,600rpm, giving the Toyota GT 86 brisk, engaging performance.
The powertrain is matched to the world's most compact four-seat design to create a car that benefits from light weight, low inertia and a low centre of gravity to achieve the best possible power-to-weight ratio. For the driver that means lively, accessible performance and dynamic character with minimal intrusion from electronic systems.
Packaging
The Toyota GT 86 measures 4,240mm long, 1,285mm high and 2,570mm wide, dimensions which make it the most compact four-seater sports car available today.
2013 Toyota GT 86
Both the powertrain and the driving position have been set as low and as far back as possible to achieve the best balance: the car has a near-perfect 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution. The flat-four engine format and the driver's hip point - the lowest of any current Toyota production model - together give the Toyota GT 86 an ultra-low centre of gravity, at just 475mm.
The Toyota GT 86 makes the most of a light kerb weight, making it easy for drivers to exploit its nimble handling and cornering poise. The suspension features MacPherson struts at the front and double wishbones at the rear. The car rides on 17-inch wheels and is fitted with ventilated disc brakes fore and aft.
World's first horizontally opposed engine with D-4S
The Toyota GT 86's engine is the result of a joint Toyota and Subaru development programme that brings together their technical know-how and mutual passion for sports cars.
Toyota has added its D-4S injection technology to Subaru's new, horizontally opposed, naturally aspirated 1,998cc four-cylinder boxer engine. This system features separate twin injectors for both direct and port injection, and a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, increasing power and torque across a wide range of engine speeds without sacrificing fuel efficiency and environmental performance.
The flat-four engine has equal bore and stroke of 86.0mm and drives through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The manual offers quick, precise shifts using a tactile, short-throw lever; the automatic transmission can be controlled using paddle shifts mounted on the steering wheel.
Power is distributed to the rear wheels via a limited slip differential to give the best possible grip in all driving conditions. The ABS and switchable vehicle stability control systems have been tuned specifically to deliver dynamic stability at the limit of the car's performance envelope with minimal electronic intervention to help preserve the purity of the driving experience.
Design
The design of the Toyota GT 86 successfully works within the technical constraints of achieving the most compact dimensions possible, a low centre of gravity and aerodynamic performance inspired by motorsport technology, while also displaying evocative, sweeping styling that recalls Toyota's sports car heritage.
Toyota's new design language informs the styling, as in the way attention is focused on the lower part of the car with the large lower grille. Elsewhere the "keen" approach can be witnessed in the clear, expressive lines.
The lower grille's "scorpion" look gives the Toyota GT 86 a more powerful appearance, with further sporting details including the model-specific 17-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler, twin exhausts and the "86" piston logo that denotes the car's special powertrain configuration.
On board, the ergonomics and function of every element the driver interacts with have been scrutinised to make driving the car as natural, instinctive and rewarding as possible. For example, the steering wheel has a 365mm diameter, making it the smallest ever fitted to a Toyota, and it is trimmed in buckskin, developed from exhaustive feedback from test drivers on how to achieve the best steering performance and grip.
The three-meter instrument cluster is arranged around a large tachometer, its design benefiting from close attention to the positioning of the displays, markings and typeface. The result is the best possible visibility and readability. The driver-focus of the cockpit is further reinforced by the carbon-effect trim, all-black roof lining, red stitching on the upholstery, aviation-style rocker switches and lightweight, aluminium pedals.
Toyota Avalon's exceptional combination of ample horsepower and excellent fuel economy offers one of the best overall dynamic performances in the large sedan segment.
The 2011 Avalon is powered by a 24-valve, dual-overhead cam 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. The engine is equipped with the latest dual VVT-i electronic valve-control mechanism that provides a broader powerband, while requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions. It is mated to a multi-mode six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2011 Toyota Avalon is an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV), EPA-estimated to deliver 20 mpg in the city, 29 highway, and 23 combined, as good as or better than any V6 model in the segment.
A roadworthy mix of fine ride quality and accurate driving control is delivered by the Toyota Avalon's MacPherson strut suspension, which uses coil springs at all four corners. Rack-and-pinion steering combines with front-wheel-drive and optimized steering gear for a natural handling feel.
The new Toyota Avalon's occupant-safety strategy includes use of extensively tested energy absorbing structures, protective side impact beams and overhead structure, advanced belt systems and active front headrests as standard equipment. Toyota Avalon will also have a redesigned accelerator pedal assembly and a brake override system.
Seven airbags, including a front knee bag for the driver, and front side curtain airbags for both rows, are also standard. Toyota's standard Star Safety System includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and TRAC traction control system. TRAC and VSC functions can be disengaged if the driver needs to free the vehicle if stuck in mud or snow.
A full-size spare and alloy wheel is standard. Each wheel has its own pressure sensor to warn if tire pressure drops, providing the driver with an early warning to find a safe place to change a tire.
The 2011 Toyota Avalon will be available in two grades when it arrives in showrooms in the spring of 2010, Avalon and Limited. Both grades will be well equipped with standard equipment like eight-way leather-trimmed power driver's seats, back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration, moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. Limited will have additional standard equipment, such as an eight-way passenger's seat with lumbar support, driver's seat cushion extension, rain-sensing wipers, Smart Key and cooled leather seats. Toyota Avalon grade can be upgraded with features like a JBL Synthesis sound system and heated front seats, while Navigation is optional for both grades.
Toyota isn‚aot planning on changing too much in the design of the 2012 Rav4. At first look, it is quite similar to last year‚aos models but now comes in a range of new colors. The Rav4 2012 models remain an extremely stylish and attractive four door crossover. One of the most noticeable features on the 2012 Rav4 is the tailgate door. Most SUVs, minivans and even crossovers have a tailgate door that swings upward. While this is great for certain occasions, some people have trouble getting the door back down. The Toyota Rav4 2012 models are being shipped with a unique tailgate that swings out sideways like its passenger and driver doors.
Much like other crossovers, the new 2012 Toyota Rav4 is build with a solid frame. Most SUVs, even other Toyota vehicles, use a larger, truck like construction. This build type means that the body and the frame are both separate elements. The 2012 Rav4 comes with a uni-body construction which ensures a lighter over all weight while ensuring a strong and stable frame. The lighter construction of the Rav4 2012 models has allowed Toyota to include plenty of cabin space which, in many cases, rivals that of full sized SUVs.
Part of what separates a crossover vehicle from a typical SUV is it‚aos power. Crossover fans have come to expect an attractive ride that couples the storage room of a minivan with the power of a full sized sports utility vehicle. The Toyota Rav4 2012 model continues to bring people what they want in a crossover. The 2012 Rav4 is available in a four cylinder model that comes with a respectable 179 horsepower. This is somewhat less powerful than some other crossovers but the four cylinder model makes up the majority of 2012 Rav4 sales. The four cylinder engine should have enough power for most common tasks but anyone interested in a sporty vehicle should look into the six cylinder alternative.
The six cylinder version of the 2012 Rav4 brings all the horsepower that crossover fans could want. Under the hood we find a six cylinder 3.5 liter engine which promises to give this crossover plenty of power. The six cylinder model boasts a very impressive 268 horsepower which is really quite a lot of power for such a compact car. This should be enough power to keep rolling in some tough situations that would be sure to stop a minivan in it’s tracks.
The four cylinder models of the 2012 Rav4 are shipped with a four speed automatic transition. Many people in the market for a sports vehicle want a manual transmission but most crossover fans seem to prefer an automatic transmission. The six cylinder Toyota Rav4 2012 models, on the other hand, are shipped with a five speed automatic transmission. While this doesn‚aot seem like much on paper, the six cylinder, five speed 2012 Rav4s have much more power and ability than their four cylinder counterparts. Even though the V-6 models seem to perform better than their weaker brethren, it still won‚aot accomplish sport heavy tasks such as serious off road use.
The 2012 Toyota Rav4 is proving that the crossover is often the perfect compromise between the need for space and the desire for a powerful vehicle. With cabin space that can rival a full size SUV, the Toyota Rav4 2012 should fit a whole load of groceries, a small team of soccer players or the entire family with room for luggage. The optional six cylinder engine is bringing with it all the power that you would expect from a sporty crossover and promises to keep you moving in a variety of conditions. If you‚aore looking for a stylishly designed vehicle with plenty of room and lots of muscle then the 2012 Rav4 could be the perfect option.
Prius v Expands Iconic Hybrid 'Family' of Vehicles
•Fits the lifestyle of young, active families
•“v” for “versatility” with more cargo space than 80 percent of small SUVs
•Shares efficient Prius Hybrid Synergy Drive to achieve 42 MPG combined rating
•Premium-level safety systems and integrated multimedia
•Pitch and Bounce Control, Panoramic View Moonroof among new features
HALF MOON BAY, Calif. (May 23, 2011) – The newest entrant in a growing Prius family of hybrid vehicles, the Prius v delivers an unparalleled blend of versatility and fuel efficiency in a comfortable, mid-size package. A new evolution in hybrid vehicles with excellent cargo space and Prius’ heritage of environmental performance and fuel economy, the 2012 Prius v will go on sale in Fall 2011.
The new Prius v, with “v” expressing the vehicle’s versatility, will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA. Despite the spaciousness of a family friendly midsize vehicle, the Prius v will deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 44 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 42 mpg combined.
“The Prius v brings leading-edge hybrid technology to customers who need more room and provides more cargo space than 80 percent of all small SUVs,” said Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter. “And because it’s a Prius, it produces 66 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle and will have the best mileage ratings of any SUV, crossover, or wagon sold in America. We think that’s a win-win for everybody.”
The Prius v will be utilizing the same proven Hybrid Synergy Drive system as the third-generation Prius, with the advantages of high mileage, low emissions, and never needing to be recharged.
A product of the same culture of innovation that spawned the original Prius 14 years and two-million units ago, the Prius v follows family tradition with new technologies and equipment advances that continues to raise the bar on the cutting edge automotive science.
Big Enough For Families and Cargo
The Prius v emphasizes overall proportion with spaciousness and flexibility for active families. Comfortable interior space and good visibility have been assisted by a high seating position, ample head room, and an impressive 38-inch couple distance, providing generous rear legroom. A low, wide-opening rear hatch reveals 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, making it the most spacious dedicated hybrid vehicle on the market.
Comfortable seating for five is specifically designed for young families. Sliding second row seats allow for easier ingress and egress and rear-storage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline for greater comfort. The 60/40 split, folding rear seats present four different seat arrangements that provide excellent usability for passengers and luggage, while a fold-flat front-passenger seat allows for extremely long cargo.
The driver is kept informed via a center-mounted instrument panel, a visually succinct, space-efficient design that is also exceptionally user-friendly. As with other Prius models, the driving controls including Push Button Start, parking switch, drive-by-wire shift toggle, and driving mode buttons are immediately at hand. Each of these driving control features are distinguished by silver trim. Instrument-panel controls, including a single dial automatic climate control, provide an advanced look and user-friendly command.
The center console is accessible from both the driver side and rear seats. The console is big enough to hold 23 CD cases, yet low enough so that lines of sight and conversation between passengers can be relaxed and natural. The console design helps make the cabin a human-friendly space, and a low-fatigue environment for long rides.
A wide variety of engineered storage spaces are located throughout the cabin. These include dual glove boxes, a center console utility tray and five cup holders in large and medium sizes. Bottle holders are built into the front and rear door pockets, while most models will feature an overhead storage space suitable for sunglasses. In addition to the larger main luggage compartment, there are storage units built into the sides and under the cargo platform for storing equipment such as car wash items or gloves. Even a special space for umbrellas is located under the second row of seats.
Rear seats fold, slide and recline to configure for any mix of passengers and cargo, and operation switches are located conveniently close to the occupants. New for Toyota, an available seat material called SofTex is designed for easy cleaning, resisting spills and wear in a family vehicle that could see heavy use on a daily basis. Soft to the touch, SofTex’s attributes as compared to leather and other traditional leatherette-type materials include a weight reduction of 50 percent, a manufacturing process with approximately 99 percent fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than conventional synthetic leather, and it’s water and stain resistant. It also does not include any animal-based material.
Advanced Connectivity
Seamlessly integrated into the Prius v are state-of-the-art electronics and enhanced connectivity features. A Bluetooth wireless connection for compatible hands-free phone calls is standard, now improved by an automatic phone book transfer function. Also standard is a USB port that allows playing of music and video from portable audio devices, using the vehicle sound system and in-dash display screen, including full iPod integration.
The standard audio system has a 6.1-inch screen and six speakers. The screen also displays the energy monitor and fuel consumption data, and functions as the monitor for the integrated back-up camera and the Display Audio System. The screen also offers a new value-driven navigation system and serves as a portal for Entune. An available HD Radio system enables CD sound quality from digital FM broadcasts, and has features that maximize analog and AM broadcast sound quality. The system will include HD Radio with iTunes tagging for future purchase and SiriusXM Satellite Radio™.
The top-of-the-line audio is equipped with a new seven-inch Premium HDD Navigation system with Entune and JBL. This system offers a new split-screen feature that allows for simultaneously displaying navigation and audio information and full iPod video integration.
The premium system adds a new JBL GreenEdge™ audio system that combines an eight-channel amplifier and door-mounted “acoustic lens” speakers, to provide a high-quality sound. The GreenEdge amplifier achieves a 66-percent reduction in overall mass and a 50-percent enhancement in sound efficiency. The GreenEdge speakers produce a higher output of sound with the same power or less consumption of conventional models.
Entune Multimedia System
Prius v will be one of the first Toyotas to offer the Entune™ multimedia system. For the first time ever in a Toyota automobile, this innovative new system leverages the mobile smartphone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated access to navigation, entertainment and information services.
Toyota Entune debuts the first-ever support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable, and movietickets.com, along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, and sports. Toyota Entune brings the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iheartradio’s 750+ stations, and Pandora’s personalized music service.
The audio systems combined with Entune feature a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road by eliminating the need to memorize thousands of voice commands. The system will also allow for audio read-back and replay capabilities for text messages, with the ability to respond by pre-set “Quick Reply Messages” such as: “I’m driving and will reply later.”
Sleek, Aerodynamic and Efficient
With a balance between outstanding spaciousness, refined style, and smooth aerodynamics, Prius v has a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, which does not inhibit the vehicle’s convenient packaging. It is a new vehicle designed from the ground up, with a shape that evolved from Prius rather than being an elongated version.
Keeping air resistance low is the familiar triangular Prius silhouette, adapted to a larger size. A flush surface from the front of the vehicle through the front pillar works with side “aerocorners” for exceptionally clean airflow. The smooth front sheetmetal blends into a carefully designed roof and cabin, leading to an optimized cabin-end shape that acts to converge side and roof airflow. Wheels and wheel caps are designed with aerodynamic effects in mind. These measures and others also have the beneficial effect of suppressing wind noise.
Enhancing the clean, low wind-resistance design are materials that keep the Prius v relatively light and easy to move. The door panels are foam-injected with polypropylene and the deck board with light-weight urethane to produce a weight savings of approximately 20 percent. Significant weight reduction is also achieved through the use of high-tensile grades of steel throughout the body along with aluminum in key body panels and systems.
High-strength steel sheets and bars used throughout the body to ensure a light, yet highly rigid platform structure.
Also available, and a Toyota-first, is a resin Panoramic View Moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40-percent reduction in weight as compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size, and excellent heat insulation performance. This improved thermal resistance means the engine needs to run less to preserve comfortable ambient temperatures, which in turn enhances fuel efficiency. The moonroof has an electrically operated shade system with a jam protection function.
Available LED headlamps work to improve visibility while reducing current draw. They use projector lenses to offer long-range visibility and are designed to be virtually maintenance free for the expected life of the vehicle.
Prius v features a climate control system with enhanced cooling capability to cope with a larger cabin. The system uses an electric compressor, so the air conditioning can run without depending on the engine, and improved component design for better maximum-demand cooling performance.
Proven Hybrid Synergy Drive System Now More Versatile
The Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Prius v is essentially the same as the current third-generation Prius. The system uses two high-output motors, one 60kw (80 hp) unit that mainly works to power the compact, lightweight transaxle and another smaller motor that mainly works as the electric power source. Maximum motor drive voltage is 650 volts DC. The proven and practical nickel-metal hydride battery pack is the same as on the third-generation Prius liftback, but with a cooling duct located under the rear seat.
As with current-generation Prius cars, Hybrid Synergy Drive is a series-parallel hybrid system that can provide power either from the engine alone, or the motor alone, or any mix of both. A hybrid control computer manages the system so that optimum power is delivered according to driver demand. It uses a start/stop system and regenerative braking to conserve fuel and recharge the battery upon deceleration.
Hybrid Synergy Drive is built around a specially adapted, efficient 98-horsepower1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle and contributes to a total system horsepower of 134. Key components include an electric water pump that requires no belts, and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system that helps warm the engine quickly, reducing fuel consumption when the engine is cold. Compact and light weight, the engine produces minimal noise and vibration. Sophisticated valve control, injector design, and other technologies reduce emissions to allow the Prius v to qualify for SULEV and Tier2 Bin3 emissions standards.
Four Driving Modes
In addition to the standard driving mode, Prius v drive system also includes an Eco driving mode, an EV driving mode, and a Power mode. In Power mode, enhanced mid-range response enables easier coping with slopes and mountainous terrain. In EV mode, the Prius v can run on battery power alone for short distances and lower speeds, up to about a mile. In Eco driving mode, the engine management system prioritizes fuel economy, managing throttle response and limiting power consumption from the air conditioning.
Pitch and Bounce Control; Better Ride, Better Handling
A new feature, Pitch and Bounce Control, works with suspension enhancements to improve ride comfort and control. Because the Prius v is a larger vehicle more likely to carry loads and passengers, front and rear suspension components have been redesigned to improve handling and ride quality. Front coil-over spring and damper capacities have been significantly increased and a new upper support has been designed. The steering gear has been attached to the front suspension member, and the stabilizer bar repositioned for more responsive steering feel and enhanced ride comfort.
In the rear, a torsion-beam suspension design has been fitted with appropriately tuned springs and dampers. The new rear-suspension system is designed to help ensure stability and ride comfort, and it has a lower mounting point to improve luggage space.
Pitch and Bounce Control uses the torque of the hybrid motor to enhance ride comfort and control. The system, working with wheel-speed sensors and in tune with the suspension, helps suppress bounce and toss motions to improve comfort for occupants. Because it helps control the balance and posture of the vehicle as a whole, it also functions to improve handling response.
Standard wheels are 16 inches in diameter, with 17-inch wheels available as an option.
Cutting Edge Safety and Security
A variety of available and standard features maintain the Prius tradition of premium-level equipment packaging. Not least among them is a broad suite of advanced features, both active and passive, that are designed to help maximize occupant safety.
The all-new Prius v platform is designed with a force-absorbing body structure. Increased use of high-strength steel, notably in the front frame members, is a key part of providing a strong body structure without increasing weight. Helping to protect the cabin from side and rear intrusions are similarly engineered reinforcements using high tensile steels, all designed to disperse energy strategically throughout the vehicle to help protect passengers.
Like all Toyota models, the Prius v will feature Toyota’s Star Safety System™ standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.
An electronic tire pressure monitoring system is standard equipment, and there are seven airbags strategically located about the cabin, including a knee airbag for the driver. New driver and front-passenger seat design helps lessen the possibility of whiplash injury during certain types of collisions while minimizing weight. A new Vehicle Proximity Notification System helps alert pedestrians and cyclists of an oncoming vehicle under certain conditions by emitting a small warning sound.
An available Pre-Collision System (PCS) retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a frontal crash is unavoidable. It is paired with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Another available safety system, Safety Connect, can access a call center with a live operator who can dispatch police and emergency vehicles. The system combines automatic collision notification and a stolen vehicle locator feature, which can track the location of the stolen vehicle via GPS and help guide police to recover it.
Peace of Mind Warranty Protection
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.
The Prius v will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The new Toyota HiLux has impressive power across the range. It produces excellent handling and stability and attention is paid to high-speed maneuverability and handling dynamics. Three different engines provide excellent acceleration from take-off and offer smooth response when accelerating to pass in the mid to high-speed ranges, even while towing or carrying a load.
The 2.7 litre 4-cylinder petrol engine delivers 116kW of power (240Nm torque)^ and the 4.0 litre V6 petrol engine delivers 175kW (376Nm torque auto / 343Nm torque manual). Both petrol engines have VVTi (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) technology for improved efficiency and performance. Equally impressive is the 3.0 litre Electronic Direct Injection (EDI) turbo diesel with 126kW of power (and a thumping 343Nm torque!)^.
HiLux's unbreakable reputation comes as much from phenomenal engine reliability as structural strength and durability. There is a choice of three powerful engines including 2.7-litre petrol, 4.0-litre petrol (both with VVT-i technology for improved efficiency and performance) and 3.0-litre turbo diesel with Electronic Direct Injection. These are all available with a 5-speed manual gearbox or a choice of 4-speed or 5-speed automatic transmission with gated shift (model dependent).
Each engine runs at its optimum level with the assistance of a microcomputer and Common Rail Fuel Injection System that detects operating conditions, controls common rail pressure, injection timing and fuel volume.
This engine features EDI (Electronic Direct Injection) and a common rail system for improved almost "petrol-like" levels of performance and efficiency. The common-rail system improves combustion efficiency while the variable vane turbo charger maximises low-end torque and provides a sharper response.
Updates to the turbo-diesel engine enable it to meet EURO IV emissions regulations. The catalytic converter has been increased in size, which has the effect of increasing the surface area of the material that aids the absorption of air pollutants such as nitrous oxides and CO2, releasing fewer toxins into the environment.
An engine gas recirculation system has been added. An EGR valve re-circulates exhaust into the intake stream. Since exhaust gases have already combusted, they do not burn again when they are re-circulated. These gases displace some of the normal intake charge. This cools the combustion process by several hundred degrees, thus reducing nitrous oxide formation.
The program of the engine computer unit (ECU) has been reconfigured to encourage more complete combustion, to reduce excess gases being released into the environment.
