Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., returns to its compact pickup truck roots with its latest concept vehicle A-BAT. The environmentally advanced A-BAT provides modern versatility, roominess and style in a compact pickup architecture. The A-BAT will be on display at the Toyota exhibit in Detroit at the 2008 North American International Auto Show beginning Monday, Jan. 14.
"Driving from beyond the suburbs to the city is a way of life for many people," said Kevin Hunter, president, Calty Design Research, Inc. "We've taken Toyota's truck heritage to a different level by envisioning a vehicle capable of maneuvering the suburbs as well as dirt roads. This compact truck is as comfortable for long commutes as it is for road trips. It can accommodate outdoor toys and home improvement supplies. Plus, customers benefit from the hybrid powertrain's low emissions and fuel economy."
The A-BAT concept was developed by the TMS Advanced Product Strategy group and Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design center located in Newport Beach, Calif. Together, they identified a buyer group whose unique combination of lifestyle activities and vehicle needs required a vehicle that as of now is not available in the market place. The team created a new genre of compact vehicle with good fuel economy, advanced functionality, maneuverability, unique styling within its segment, and a durable package suitable for an active lifestyle. Advanced styling was also key in making the A-BAT appropriate for today's market.
The A-BAT concept rides on a unibody platform for car-like handling when navigating city streets and crowded parking lots, and smooth ride quality for highway trips and the everyday commute. In addition, its lightweight package coupled with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology is designed to deliver excellent fuel economy. Translucent solar panels in the top surface of the instrument panel capture sunlight and convert it into energy, showcasing the vehicle's "green" character.
Positioned below the Toyota Tacoma, A-BAT integrates truck features with car fundamentals for an efficient and modern package.
The A-BAT's unique aerodynamic exterior was crafted by Calty Project Chief Designer Ian Cartabiano and Creative Designer Matt Sperling. They integrated Toyota's design philosophy, "Vibrant Clarity" into the exterior by keeping the design forward-looking, crisp and functional.
The concept's unique look is a combination of the large body surfaces, intersecting tight surface planes, crisp lines and the trapezoidal profile. The A-BAT's 19-inch wheels sit at the vehicle's corners creating a tough and ready stance.
"We studied the 'trapezoid' silhouette from the side profile of the Toyota Prius and applied it to create an entirely new truck image," said Sperling. He further enhanced the trapezoidal profile by placing the cab forward, and using fast angle A- and C-pillars, shortened overhangs, and a sleek front window.
"The bold grille showcases Toyota's reverse trapezoid and T-face theme in a new way," explained Cartabiano. "The bed is defined by the C-pillar and is clearly separated from the cab to allow it to stand out from the rest of the profile."
"The image of a NATO all-terrain military truck inspired us to keep the occupants as far forward as possible to maximize rear bed capacity in this compact package," stated Sperling.
The A-BAT features a four-foot bed, but has more flexibility than the standard pickup truck. A translucent roof panel slides open to allow for tall cargo in the cab. When the pass-through midgate is folded down into the cab the bed lengthens an additional two feet. An open tailgate provides an additional two-foot of bed length. The A-BAT offers customers the versatility of hauling a standard 4x8 sheet of plywood one day, then taking a family on a camping trip to the lake the next.
The bed has features perfect for work and play. These include tailgate lighting for illuminating the load in the bed, a first aid kit and flashlight integrated into the tailgate, sliding tie downs, and an AC power outlet. Items such as sports and leisure equipment can be stored in the lockable drawers in the bed walls. The concept also has additional storage that is accessible through sliding doors conveniently placed in and outside of the truck bed. For even more storage capacity the A-BAT comes with a large sliding drawer beneath the bed, accessible without opening the tailgate.
Although the A-BAT is rugged and has a spirited exterior, the interior team worked to create a modern look for the interior.
"We balanced colors and fabrics that were both bright and vibrant, but also captured an urban-rugged feel with their energetic and geometric qualities," said Alan Schneider, Project Chief Designer.
"The inspiration behind the exposed structure on the interior was drawn from high-end mountain bike frames," added Daryl Harris, Senior Creative Designer. "We applied lightweight construction materials, such as carbon fiber and aluminum, to the instrument panel, console and seats for increased structural rigidity while reducing mass."
The rigid, yet sculptured alloy center console runs between the two front seats and houses a portable power pack. The battery pack offers both AC and DC for a wide variety of applications including powering tools, electrical gear while camping, a laptop computer, small appliances or assisting a vehicle jump start.
The door trim, shoulder, armrest and instrument panel pads and seat cushions are made of a tough, lightweight and comfortable material that can be selected for personalization. In addition the colors are coordinated to enhance the sleek interior environment. The center console and door pockets feature carbon fiber components to complete the durable and modern look.
The four-passenger A-BAT offers numerous seating and storage configurations. In addition to the rear seats folding down with the midgate to extend the cargo bed length, the rear seat cushions can retract beneath the cargo bed to increase rear cab cargo flexibility. A removable storage tray beneath the rear seat offers tie downs and organizing compartments to secure loose cargo.
Inside the A-BAT has a retractable portable navigation unit with a seven-inch diagonal screen and Wi-Fi internet. Other advanced features include a port for portable device assistant synchronization and a hard drive for digital music.
Both the driver and front passenger have a large multi-information display screens on the IP to view the status of their high tech gadgets and HVAC and audio settings.
The solar panels on the dash recapture energy from the sun to assist in the charging of the navigation unit, portable power pack and backlit information displays.
"This concept is the next evolution of the compact truck," said Hunter. "We were able to create a compact truck that's utilitarian, has an original profile compared to other pickup trucks, has a 'small, but tough' character and is economical to operate. The A-BAT is a fun-to-drive, practical package that reflects Toyota's environmental sustainability message."
TOYOTA A-BAT CONCEPT PICKUP TRUCK
PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
DRIVETRAIN
Four cylinder gas engine with Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive®
DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 181.3
Overall Width: 74.4
Overall Height: 64.0
Wheelbase: 112.2
Bed Length: 48.0
Bed Length with Midgate down: 72.0
Bed Length with Midgate and Tailgate down: 96.0
Wheel Size: 19-inch
Text and photos: Toyota
Sunday, January 06, 2008
NAIAS 2008: Toyota A-BAT Concept
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
2008 Toyota Sequoia to start at $34,150
Toyota has released pricing for its new 2008 Sequoia SUV, a vehicle that was savaged recently by The Boston Globe as little more than a pollution-spewing monster. The attack was so severe that it prompted a rebuttal from Irv Miller, Toyota's Group VP of Corporate Communications, on the automaker's Open Road blog.
Prices for Toyota's newest and biggest SUV -- which is hitting showrooms now -- range from a two-wheel drive 4.7-liter V-8 SR5 model at $34,150 to a Platinum 4x4 Sequoia with the 5.7-liter V-8 at an MSRP of $55,600. Prices do not include destination fees. The incoming vehicle's base price is $990 more expensive than the 2007 model, an increase of some three percent.
The new Sequoia -- especially with the 5.7-liter V-8 also found in the Tundra -- is more of everything. At 381 horsepower, the 5.7-liter has 108 more horsepower than the carryover 4.7-liter, yet it gets about 12 percent better highway fuel economy and is certified as a ULEV-II engine. The 5.7-liter-equipped Sequoia can also tow 10,000 pounds, up from the base Sequoia's 6500. That 10,000 pound towing capacity bests the maximum 9200 pounds the Ford Expedition can haul. Initial EPA mileage estimates are 14 city/19 highway -- comparable to vehicles such as GM's Tahoe/Yukon and the Expedition.
Longer, wider, and taller than the last-generation Sequoia, the new Toyota gets a sliding-type seat adjuster, helping to ease access to the third-row. All passengers are protected by roll-sensing side curtain airbags as well as a lengthy list of safety systems: Vehicle Stability Control, some form of traction control, an anti-lock brake system with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist, as well as driver and front passenger side airbags.
Step up to Toyota's Platinum trim level and you can enjoy a plethora of fun toys and technology including rear load-leveling air suspension, heated and cooled front seats, a navigation system with a backup camera, front and rear parking sonar, and power retractable and heated mirrors.
Although the full-size SUV segment is shrinking, it still provides huge profit margins. And while Toyota has certainly enjoyed its status as a green-thinking automaker, thanks in large part to the success of the Prius, that clearly isn't going to stop it from competing in all viable vehicle segments in the U.S. -- even if some backlash results.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Toyota unveils all-new Corolla Matrix at 2007 SEMA show
Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new second-generation Corolla Matrix at a press conference today at the 2007 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show.
The Toyota Matrix, the sporty five-door vehicle that helped redefine the concept of a crossover utility vehicle, has been redesigned for the 2009 model year to offer performance that matters for driver enjoyment.
"The Matrix concept was based on blending the functionality of an SUV, the style, image and performance of a sports car with the affordability of a subcompact sedan," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "For 2009, it’s all that, and more. It may have the body of a five-door hatch, but it comes with the soul of a two-door sports car."
Development of the 2009 Matrix focused on greater exterior coupe-like styling with enhanced interior utility and improved dynamic performance. It was made wider with a lower stance than the current model while maintaining its interior space. The result is a sporty, dynamic shape that contains room for five people to ride in comfort. As a result of significant changes to the Matrix’s profile, the theme is flowing and dynamic. The design expresses a low center of gravity, and coupe-like style with a fun-to-drive image. From the rear, the Matrix has rounded rear windows and continuous character lines that run from the front grille to the A-pillar.
Matrix will be available in three grades – Standard, S and the XRS. And Matrix will offer the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) with the S grade. The S and XRS models integrate a front underbody spoiler with a large mesh fog lamp bezel and rear underbody spoiler. A rear deck spoiler will be standard for all XRS models.
The Matrix interior is completely redesigned to enhance driving enjoyment, comfort and utility.
Seats have been redesigned to accommodate the vehicle’s new lower profile while maintaining the expected high comfort levels, and seat positions were lowered slightly to maintain appropriate headroom. As a result, cabin space remains equal to that of the previous Matrix.
A new three-spoke steering wheel enhances the rest of the new Matrix interior. XRS models come standard with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that also includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth® capability when equipped.
The driver and front passenger are treated to comfortable new sport seats, with seat-mounted side airbags. A fold-down seatback table will be available for the front passenger’s seat, enhancing interior utility on S and XRS. A movable and removable cup support element for the front center console helps provide versatile storage area and convenience. The cup holder area can be used as a tray when the divider is removed.
For rear-seat passengers, expanded front-to-back couple distance helps to provide additional room and comfort. A folding seat with a 60/40 split includes a middle-seat headrest for the fifth passenger.
The Matrix is equipped with a new, high-efficiency air-conditioning system with larger vents for directional accuracy and offers reduced power consumption and improved heating and cooling.
The 2009 Matrix offers the choice of two different engines, a five-speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions.
A 16-valve, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine will produce 132 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine will feature Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) on both the intake and exhaust camshafts that helps it achieve outstanding performance and economy.
Estimated EPA fuel economy ratings are 26/32 city/highway mpg for manual transmission models and 25/31 for the automatic transmission model powered by a 1.8-liter engine.
For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, the Matrix offers a 16-valve DOHC 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that will produce 158 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Matrix models powered by the 2.4-liter engine with five-speed automatic transmission will have an estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/29 city/highway mpg.
The Matrix’s base wheel is a 16-inch steel unit with a six-spoke full wheel cover. A distinctive 17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheel will be available for the S grade, and an 18-inch aluminum alloy wheel with a twin five-spoke design will come standard on the XRS grade.
Dual-stage SRS airbags will be standard for the driver and front passenger. Front seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags and front active headrests are also standard.
Brake performance will be improved with standard front and rear disc brakes on all Matrix grades. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also standard. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with TRAC and off switch will be standard on XRS and available as an option on all other models. VSC automatically adjusts engine output and the vehicle’s braking force at each wheel when the vehicle experiences a loss of traction during cornering.
Form, fun and functionality will be in abundance with an array of standard convenience features across all three grades. Base equipment on all Matrix models include power color-keyed outside rearview mirrors, power steering, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, daytime running lights, heavy duty rear window defogger, intermittent windshield wipers, 12-volt power outlet, four cupholders, auxiliary audio input jack, front center console box and an engine immobilizer.
The S grade adds standard power door locks and windows with one-touch down driver-side, 115-volt power outlet, cruise control, intermittent rear window wiper, fold-flat front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability and six speakers, front and rear underbody spoilers and fog lamps.
In addition to these features, the XRS grade features standard P215/45 R18 tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and off switch, and a three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio steering wheel controls.
In addition to the array of standard equipment, an impressive list of optional comfort and utility features are available to further enhance the Matrix driving experience. Available options will include an AM/FM/CD with six-speaker system with DVD navigation with XM NavTraffic® capability, alloy wheels, power heated outside rearview mirror, intermittent rear window wiper, cruise control, power door locks, power windows, and remote keyless entry.
The all-new Matrix will hit Toyota dealerships in February 2008.
2009 MATRIX PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
POWERTRAIN
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine
132 hp @6,000 rpm
128 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm
Five-speed manual and Four-speed automatic transmissions
2.4-liter four-cylinder engine
158 hp @ 6,000 rpm
162 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,000 rpm
Five-speed manual and four and five-speed automatic transmissions
DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 173.0 (S and XRS grades)
171.9 (Standard grade and S all-wheel-drive grade)
Overall Width: 69.5
Overall Height: 61.4 (XRS and S all-wheel-drive grades)
61.0 (Standard grade and S)
Wheelbase: 102.4
Ground clearance: 5.3 (S and XRS grades)
5.8 (Standard grade)
Text and photos: Toyota
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Toyota Harrier Zagato comes to the Japanese market
The luxury Toyota Harrier SUV (known in the other world as the Lexus RX series) was unveiled yesterday at the 2006 Tokyo Automatic Gallery tuner/specialty car show wearing new body kit from Zagato. Designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Toyota's Toyopet dealerships, it will be produced in a number of no more than 250 vehicles, Autoblog reports.
The Ssangyong-style aerokit includes new front and rear bumpers, lip spoiler, ventilated fender flares and lower body cladding, as well as an open-look grille and deeper roof spoiler. The kit comes with a set of gold five-spoke Zagato Design wheels. Cars bodies may be painted in red mica metallic or white pearl crystal colors.
As for the prices, there are, actually, two Harrier Zagato packages. The first one is based on the Harrier 240G "L" (equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine) and the other is mounted on a Harrier 350G "L" (3.5-liter V6), both vehicles may be ordered with either 2WD or 4WD transmission, therefore costing from approximately $42,000 to $48,800.
See also: Audi Q7 SUV tuned by JE Design
New Toyota Estima Hybrid MPV Set to Launch
Toyota starts selling its redesigned Estima Hybrid minivan, which features an MPV-optimized version of its well-known among enthusiasts THS II hybrid system and E-Four (electric four-wheel-drive) transmission.
The new Toyota Estima Hybrid effectively sports three engines - two electric and a petrol one. The electric motor in the front has a maximum output of 140 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque and the rear motor is capable to produce 66 hp and 95 lb-ft of torque. A 'traditional' 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine features 145 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. Considering all these power sources, it's no wonder that the new Estima accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds, which is a way better than its conventional 4WD competitors can achieve.
Unfortunately, this generation of hybrid-driven Estimas is supposed to be sold in Japan only, but I guess there is still chance that the hybrid MPV will eventually be exported overseas.
Source: Toyota Estima Hybrid minivan gets major facelift
Photo: Edmunds.com
See also: Cadillac to release the Escalade hybrid SUV
2008 Toyota Vanguard SUV (alas, JDM only)
Toyota has presented its new 2008 Toyota Vanguard mid-size SUV. Positioned somewhere between the 2008 RAV4 and Highlander, the Vanguard is 179.9 inches long and about 66.9 inches wide and may be ordered in either five- or five-plus-two seating formula (I'm afraid, you just can't call a seven-seater a car, which is 20 inches shorter than, say, Audi Q7 or Mercedes Benz GL-Class that are not real seven-seaters themselves).
The 2008 Toyota Vanguard, company says in its press release, is available with a choice of two engines. The smaller is an inline four-banger. Having a displacement of 2.4 liters, the engine will drink only 12.6 liters per 100 km, which is about 29.6 mpg. More powerful 3.5-liter V6 is combined with 5 Super ECT and is mated with Active Torque Control 4WD transmission.
Among available goodies are LED tail lights, steering-assisted stability control, keyless entry and satellite navigation.
In Japan, the 2008 Toyota Vanguard will be available at a price, ranging from $23,000 to $30,000. It is not yet clear, whether the car ever reaches Europe and the U.S. but if it will, expect it come under the Lexus brand, Inside Line recommends.
See also: Toyota FJ Cruiser TRD will come all black
2008 Toyota LandCruiser to be unveiled in Sydney
The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser 200 series will be unveiled in October at the upcoming motor show in Sydney, Australia. Just like its more luxurious sibling, the 2008 Lexus LX 570, the new LandCruiser will be available with a couple of powerful V8 engines working on either gas or diesel fuel. It could be more handsome, though.
The SUV, Toyota is reporting in its press release, will get 60mm longer, 30mm wider and 15mm higher than its predecessor, providing enough useful volume for a comfortable off-road driving. Land Cruiser's full-frame structure has been strengthened to increase safety, reduce noise and vibration and enhance interior comfort. The vehicle now features a double-wishbone front suspension with coil springs, which comes in place of the previous torsion-bar set-up, improving handling and stability.
The real off-roaders are not that good on a decent pavement, so 2008 Toyota LandCruiser will also feature a hydraulic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), controlling the front and rear stabilizer bars for better on-road stability.
There will also be a CRAWL automatic speed control system, making it easier to drive the car on surfaces such as rocks, sand or steep hills. The system lets the driver set the desired speed in one of three levels varying between 1 km/h and 5 km/h and focus all of his/her attention on the road (or the lack thereof).
The 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser 200 seats up to eight passengers and comes with such safety equipment as vehicle stability control and up to 10 airbags - front, side and knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, side airbags for the outboard second-row seats and curtain shield airbags for all three rows.
The list of options includes smart entry and smart start, Bluetooth, satellite navigation and steering wheel controls.
In the United States, the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser V8 will start at $63,200. It will arrive to Europe only in December.
See also: Toyota Land Cruiser Invincible gets more power
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Amazing off-road capability yet comfortable around town.
Introduction
Bucking the trend for mid-size SUVs, the 2007 Toyota 4Runner is no car-based crossover station wagon. It's a traditional sport utility built on a rugged ladder frame with a solid rear axle. It's a truck. While some consider this design dated when compared to the latest SUVs or CUVs, which use unit-body construction and independent rear suspensions, the 4Runner's more traditional design gives it an advantage in long-term durability and on truly rugged terrain.
Yet the 4Runner is no rough-rider. It's quite comfortable around town and on the highway, with a nice ride quality, almost luxurious. An optional linked shock-absorber system called X-REAS further improves handling in sweeping, high-speed turns. Active safety features including ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, traction control, and electronic stability control are all standard.
The 2007 Toyota 4Runner carries over with no changes from 2006.
Though the basic design may be traditional (relatively), the 4Runner features the latest in off-road electronic technology, including Hill Start Assist and Downhill Assist Control. You can't truly appreciate the 4Runner until you drive over rugged terrain. This is a truly amazing vehicle in the muck. Having the 4Runner walk you down a steep, muddy incline with both feet off the pedals, the system selectively applying the brakes to individual wheels as needed, is an impressive display of technology and engineering. And it's just as impressive going uphill, maximizing the smallest bit of available traction. Both full- and part-time four-wheel drive is available, but even the full-time system comes with a locking function for when the going gets sloppy. Add that technology to its highly capable suspension, and the 4Runner will go just about anywhere.
Whether you choose the standard V6 or the V8, the 4Runner offers responsive performance. The V8 boosts the 4Runner's tow rating to 7,300 pounds and we recommend it for drivers who tow. Those who don't tow or only tow light trailers, such as an ATV, should be more than happy with the V6, which delivers excellent performance. Both engines benefit from a sophisticated variable-valve setup and drive-by-wire throttle, delivering strong, responsive acceleration out on the highway. Both engines also benefit from a five-speed automatic transmission.
The 4Runner is noted for its quality construction, durability and reliability. Look up QDR in the automotive dictionary and you might see a picture of a Toyota 4Runner.
Inside, the 4Runner is roomy and comfortable. An optional third-row seat expands the passenger capacity to seven, but the seat can be folded or removed to gain additional cargo space. The optional voice-activated GPS navigation system includes a rear-mounted video camera that lets the driver back to within an inch of the vehicle behind when parallel parking and can help the driver spot a small child before backing up. Bluetooth technology is available as an option as is a factory-installed rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
If your weekend involves driving over rugged, punishing terrain yet you want a vehicle that won't punish you in everyday use, the 4Runner is an excellent choice. It's also a good alternative for owners who tow but don't want a full-size SUV.
