The New Toyota 4Runner

The 2009 Toyota 4Runner full-capability sport-utility vehicle adds an optional Trail Edition package. Available exclusively for the 4Runner SR5 with V6 and 4WD, the Trail Edition package combines enhanced off-road capability with unique design.

For better off-road performance, the package adds a locking rear differential, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Bilstein shock absorbers and unique 16-inch alloy wheels with 265/70R16 tires. Externally, the Trail Edition package distinguishes the Toyota 4Runner with color-keyed grille, door handles, rear license plate garnish and "Trail Edition" badging, as well as black tubular side steps and tubular roof rack. The Trail Edition package is available in three exterior colors: Titanium Metallic, Natural White and Shadow Mica.

The Trail Edition package also features seats covered in water-resistant material and charcoal fabric bolsters. A perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel integrates controls for the unique AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and a detachable TomTom® personal navigation unit. The system offers WMA/MP3 CD capability, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, satellite radio capability and available iPod® connectivity.

The Toyota 4Runner is offered in three grade levels: the SR5, the Sport Edition that features a distinct appearance and enhanced handling performance, and the Limited grade with additional upscale comfort amenities.

Handling and Ride

The 4Runner's rugged body-on-frame construction utilizes full-length boxed section frame rails that employ large-diameter body mounts for high torsional rigidity and excellent cabin noise isolation. On V8 models, a standard tow hitch receiver bolts directly to the rear frame crossmember (optional on V6 models). A draw bar, a high-capacity seven-pin electrical connector for trailer wiring, and pre-wiring for an electric trailer brake controller are also standard equipment.

Suspension is controlled by double wishbones in front and a four-link rigid axle in the rear, both systems using coil springs over gas shock absorbers. The Toyota 4Runner Limited V8 4WD model can be equipped with auto-leveling rear air suspension for improved ride and performance when towing or carrying heavy loads. This option is teamed with the unique X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension that is standard on the Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition.

The X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension diagonally links the compression chambers of the shock absorbers (front left shock linked to rear right and front right linked to rear left) by a center control absorber. The system helps improve on-road handling and dampens body roll and pitch by passing small body motions from front-to-rear to increase overall vertical shock damping.

Towing capacity is 5,000 lbs. for V6 models, 7,000 lbs. for V8 4WD models and 7,300 lbs. for V8 2WD models. All Toyota 4Runner models are equipped with skid plates for the engine and fuel tank, and 4WD models add one for the transfer case, as well.

Safety

Like all Toyota SUVs, the 4Runner comes standard with the advanced STAR Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist.

Four-channel, four-sensor ABS helps to preserve steering control by preventing the wheels from locking during severe braking situations, while EBD distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the (ABS), the system supplements the applied braking power.

The VSC system helps keep the Toyota 4Runner going on the driver's intended course by detecting front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to control either condition with torque intervention and/or by braking individual wheels. A VSC-off switch allows the driver to disengage the system, which can be useful in certain driving conditions.

The TRAC feature helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration. Toyota 4Runner 4WD models use an additional yaw sensor, a deceleration sensor, and control algorithms to deliver smoother torque on any surface, including low-range and locked center differential conditions.

Driver and front passenger advanced front airbags inflate according to impact severity. A front passenger seat sensor verifies if a certain amount of weight in the seat is present, determines whether the airbag should inflate, then selects correct inflation power. The standard front and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags are equipped with a cutoff switch. Cargo-area mirrors located on the D-pillars help enhance visibility when reversing.

Comfort and Convenience

An automatic climate-control system is standard on all Toyota 4Runner models, with the Limited grade adding dual-zone temperature control in front. A multi-information display, located just above the climate control panel, shows the climate control status as well as a clock, outside temperature, fuel range meter, average speed, and average fuel consumption. Standard equipment for the 4Runner SR5 model includes cruise control, power door locks and windows (including rear gate window) with driver's auto up/down function, three 12-volt power outlets, remote keyless entry with rear hatch window power-down operation, and illuminated entry.

The Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition adds a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, high-contrast fabric-trimmed seats and trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. The V8 SR5 and the Sport Edition also come equipped with standard power-adjustable front seats, which are optional for the SR5 V6 models.

The Toyota 4Runner Limited steps up the luxury factor with black wood grain-style interior trim, leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a seat memory system, anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, HomeLink® universal garage door opener, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with compass. The available power moonroof with jam protection features a two-stage automatic wind deflector to help minimize wind noise. The deflector lowers to an intermediate height when the 4Runner is traveling over 55 mph and rises to full height again when vehicle speed drops below 45 mph and the roof is fully open.

A Deluxe AM/FM/CD system with six speakers is standard on SR5 and Sport models and includes a universal mini-jack port to connect most portable music players. All standard and optional audio systems are MP3 and WMA-media compatible.

Standard on the Toyota 4Runner Limited is a Deluxe AM/FM/six-disc in-dash system with six speakers and satellite radio capability.

Urban Runner Package

Adding a new dimension in style, value, and upscale luxury, the Sport Edition is also available in an Urban Runner Package. Standard exterior features include 18-inch six-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, unique rear spoiler, color-keyed grille, Urban Runner badging, XREAS Sport Enhanced Suspension badging, chrome exhaust tip, and black-painted tubular side steps and tubular roof rack with crossbars. The 4Runner Urban Runner is available in only three exterior colors, Black, Titanium Metallic and, new to Toyota 4Runner, Blizzard Pearl.

Inside, the Urban Runner features an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and a detachable TomTom® personal navigation unit. The system offers WMA/MP3 CD capability, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, satellite radio capability and available iPod® connectivity. Additional standard interior enhancements include stone Alcantara® fabric seat inserts and dark charcoal bolsters with eight-way power driver seat and four-way power passenger seats, leather-trimmed shift knob, perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, chrome door handles, and black wood-grain-style interior trim.

Optional Urban Runner equipment includes a sunroof, V6 towing package, anti-theft alarm system, daytime running lights, a double deck cargo system with net, HomeLink® universal transceiver, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and a 115-volt AC power outlet.

Options

Available on all grades is a 360-watt JBL Synthesis AM/FM 6-disc in-dash sound system with 10 speakers. The system is satellite-ready, and the option also adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls and cruise control. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is also available with the Deluxe 3-in-1 audio as a stand-alone option. An available factory-installed DVD rear seat entertainment system uses a wide-format nine-inch LCD screen and includes two sets of wireless headphones.

A DVD navigation system is available for all Toyota 4Runner models and is paired with an eight-speaker JBL AM/FM/four-disc in-dash audio system with satellite-ready capability. The system features a touch-screen monitor, Bluetooth® wireless and voice guidance capability which includes more than five million verified data points. The optional navigation system integrates a rear backup camera that automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the system's seven-inch LCD screen when reverse gear is engaged.

Bluetooth® provides a hands-free communication system when using a compatible cell phone. Calls can be dialed by using the navigation screen's keypad, and calls can be received and ended by pushing a button on the steering wheel. The stereo is automatically muted when a call is received, and the stereo speakers act as the phone receiver and transmitter.

Exterior Design

The most popular Toyota 4Runner model, the SR5, is distinguished by a chrome grille, door handles and rear license plate garnish. The SR5 is also equipped with standard fog lamps, black running boards, and six-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels with P265/70 R16 tires - including a full-size spare tire with alloy wheel.

The Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition projects a performance image with a hood scoop, smoked chrome grille and headlight bezels, tubular roof rack and side steps, and six-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with P265/65 R17 raised white letter tires. The Toyota 4Runner Limited is distinguished by a color-keyed grille and heated power mirrors, black roof rack, black illuminated running boards, and six-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior Design

Sporty design and extensive convenience features highlight the 4Runner's spacious and versatile interior. The two-tone dashboard houses a three-pod instrument cluster with orange illumination. A vehicle level sensor detects when the Toyota 4Runner is on an incline and compensates the fuel gauge reading. Exterior glass shields 94 percent or more of UV rays, and water-repellent glass is used for the windshield, side windows, and side mirrors.

The Toyota 4Runner seats up to seven with an available third-row seat option on SR5 and Limited models. The seat can fold over or be removed when additional cargo space is needed. The 60/40-split fold-down rear seatbacks fold flat easily with no need to remove the headrests. An extra-wide fold-down rear seat center armrest integrates a pull-out convenience tray with two cup holders. Interior storage includes large bins in all doors.

When Toyota 4Runner is equipped with the available third row, the middle row tumbles forward for easy third row access. The rear gate's standard power window includes jam protection, as well as an electric power close function to ensure it is not left partially ajar.

The large rear cargo area provides tie-down hooks on the floor and additional storage hooks on the sidewalls. A "double-decker" cargo system with cargo net is standard on Toyota 4Runner Limited and optional for others. The cargo shelf can lie flat or be lifted up easily with one hand and locked in place to accommodate larger items (up to 66 pounds).

The New Toyota Avensis Tourer

New Toyota Avensis will also contribute to a reduction in Toyota's fleet average CO2 emissions to 140g/km by 2009. The Toyota Optimal Drive philosophy has been applied through a range of new petrol engines, upgraded diesel engines and new, advanced transmissions, giving customers reduced emissions without compromising power and driving pleasure.

New Toyota Avensis Chief Engineer Takashi Yamamoto explains: "We have put a strong European mark on the project from the start. Thirty-five engineers from Toyota Motor Europe were invited to Japan to join forces with the Toyota Motor Corporation development team. When the project team returned to Europe for finalisation, these engineers played a key role in the knowledge transfer between the two development teams.

"I think this one of the key reasons why today we can look back at a highly efficient development process and be proud of our achievement, which I believe is nothing less than the 'cutting edge' of the D-segment."

ATHLETIC DESIGN

Conceived at ED2, Toyota's design studio in the South of France, new Avensis expresses power without relying on sheer mass.

Today's car designers have to resolve unprecedented challenges. Customers want cars with more powerful engines, but with lower emissions. They want more interior space, but also more compact cars that consume less fuel. And perhaps the greatest challenge is resolving the paradox of building a car that is kinder to the environment, powerful and fun to drive, yet not compromised in terms of comfort and safety.

These challenges are addressed by Toyota's Vibrant Clarity design language, founded on the J-factor - the internationally respected elements of Japanese originality and quality. Applying the J-factor has resolved three key challenges in new Toyota Avensis's design:

• To project power without being a massive car
• To be dynamic to drive, but with top-class ride comfort
• To deliver low emissions, but with impressive performance

New Toyota Avensis will be available in saloon and Tourer body styles. These were designed in parallel, so the Toyota Avensis Tourer was designed specifically for its purpose, rather than being a saloon with a raised and stretched rear.

Both versions have an athletic and sleek appearance. The bonnet has been lowered, the slim A-pillars flow forwards and the C-pillar is slanted backwards to produce a flowing silhouette. Excellent aerodynamics gives a Cd figure of 0.28 for the saloon and 0.29 for the Toyota Avensis Tourer, helping reduce CO2 emissions.

New Toyota Avensis is only 50mm longer than the previous generation model, giving an overall length of 4,695 for the saloon and 4,765 for the Toyota Avensis Tourer. Both have a 2,700mm wheelbase and are 1,480mm tall - the same height as the current Toyota Avensis. Thanks to the new platform, the track has been increased by between 30 and 45mm, while the car's width has grown by 50mm to 1,810mm.

Repositioning the wheels nearer the outside edges of the floorpan has achieved a more solid, powerful appearance without adding unnecessary weight or mass.

Toyota Avensis is also more spacious inside. Although overall vehicle height remains unchanged, there is more headroom. Cargo space in the Toyota Avensis Tourer is more flexible, with cargo rails available to divide and secure separate loads. Fold flat seats have a one-touch folding mechanism to create extra space when needed in both saloon and Tourer.

The new-look instrument panel makes good use of the car's width to emphasise the spacious feel of the interior. This can be further heightened in the Toyota Avensis Tourer with the option of a panoramic roof.

Materials used in the cabin have been chosen to express prestige and dynamism. The dashboard trim, in black or grey-beige combination, has a soft-texture grained finish. There is a choice of finishes for the centre console, including black metallic paint and a titanium finish. On higher grade models, the console has a graphic finish inspired by Takesumi - a charcoal made from bamboo.

The speedometer and tachometer are crisply lit and have chrome bezels. The Optitron display ensures excellent legibility, regardless of lighting conditions. It also can reduce tiredness and fatigue.

INCREASED POWER AND TORQUE WITH LOWER, CLASS-LEADING EMISSIONS

The new Toyota Optimal Drive philosophy has been applied to the development of new Toyota Avensis's engine line-up with a focus on minimising environmental impact while maximising driving pleasure through increased power and torque.

The best example of this is the new Valvematic range of petrol engines, which give 10 to 26 per cent lower CO2 emissions compared to equivalent power plants in the current Toyota Avensis. At the same time, power is increased by between three and 20 per cent. Toyota's Valvematic technology helps improve fuel efficiency, power, torque and engine response and reduces CO2 emissions by simultaneously controlling valve timing and lift.

1.8-litre Valvematic

The new 1.8-litre Valvematic offers a choice of the new six-speed manual transmission or new Multidrive S, Toyota's latest continuously variable transmission technology. Power is greater by 14 per cent compared to the previous 1.8 VVT-i unit at 145bhp (147 DIN hp) and there is an extra 10Nm of torque, with a maximum 180Nm delivered at 4,000rpm. CO2 emissions are down 10 per cent at 154g/km in the saloon with manual gearbox; 16 per cent at 157g/km with Multidrive S transmission.

2.0-litre Valvematic

The 2.0-litre Valvematic is at the top of the petrol engine range, offered with six-speed manual and Multidrive S transmissions. Maximum output is 150bhp (152 DIN hp), three per cent higher than Toyota's 2.0-litre engine, and maximum torque is 196Nm, produced at 4,000rpm. With manual transmission, CO2 emissions have fallen 15 per cent to 163g/km; with Multidrive S the decrease is even greater - down 26 per cent to 164g/km.

With the benefit of these new engines, Toyota delivers a class-leading power to CO2 ratio.

Multidrive S transmission

Multidrive S gives an incredibly smooth, refined shift action, automatically optimising torque and fuel consumption by always using the ideal engine speed. When the engine is pressed a little harder, the transmission operates like a seven-speed automatic, which helps eliminate the characteristic whining associated with CVTs.

The transmission's Sport mode gives a sportier drive, selecting a more responsive and power-maximising ratio in line with driver input. And for an even more involving drive, the system has a seven-speed sequential manual mode, letting the driver change gear using the shift lever or, exclusively on the 2.0 Valvematic, paddle shifts mounted on the steering wheel.

Diesel engines

The benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive are also evident in the revised diesel engine line-up, with more torque at lower speeds leading to lower emissions. The upgrades include new piezo injectors and a higher injection pressure - 2,000 bar. These new features help achieve a reduction in CO2 emissions of between 2.5 and 10 per cent compared to the current generation Toyota Avensis.

2.0-litre D-4D 130

The 2.0-litre D-4D 130 engine delivers power through a six-speed manual transmission and produces 124bhp (126 DIN hp) at 3,600rpm and 310Nm of torque between 1,800 and 2,400rpm. Emissions are down seven per cent at 134g/km for the saloon, with improved performance.

2.2-litre D-4D 150

The 2.2 D-4D 150 offers a strong balance of power and economy. Output of 148bhp (150 DIN hp) is reached at 3,600rpm, with an increase in torque of nearly 10 per cent to 340Nm, generated between 2,000 and 2,800rpm. This means maximum torque is available in most driving conditions, cutting the need for frequent gear changes, whilst still delivering less than 150 g/km.

In a Toyota first for a diesel passenger car, this engine is offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission. This gives a fast shift response while maintaining comfortable performance by eliminating shift-shock. The system includes a sequential manual mode: by moving the shift level to the M gate, the driver can choose to select gears using the shift lever or paddle shifts on the steering wheel.

The 2.2 D-4D 150 engine benefits from Toyota D-CAT clean diesel technology and achieves CO2 emissions of less than 180g/km in the new Toyota Avensis saloon. D-CAT simultaneously reduces nitrogen oxides and particulate matter emissions through a maintenance-free system designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle.

2.2-litre D-4D 180

The top-of-the-range diesel, the 2.2 D-4D 180 has a unique combination of a low compression ratio and a high boost turbocharger, which gives remarkable power and engine efficiency. With 175bhp (177 DIN hp) and 400Nm of torque across a rev band from 2,000 to 2,800rpm, it is among the most powerful diesel engines in the D-segment. Nought to 62mph acceleration is achieved in 8.5 seconds, yet CO2 emissions are just 157g/km for the saloon, making it one of the cleanest high power diesels on the market. Like the 2.2 D-4D 150, it uses Toyota D-CAT for cleaner operation.

Efficient driving

All new Toyota Avensis models are fitted with driving indicators to help ensure efficient motoring. The on-board computer has an ECO driving indicator on versions with six-speed automatic and Multidrive S transmissions, showing the driver how efficient his or her driving style is. Manual versions come with a Gear Shift Indicator, which advises the driver on the best timing for up and down gear changes.

DYNAMIC RIDE HANDLING WITH SUPERIOR RIDE COMFORT

New Toyota Avensis has been engineered for smooth ride comfort, but with dynamic handling for rewarding driving characteristics.

A new platform provides an excellent balance of high-speed stability and low speed agility. To enhance performance, both the MacPherson strut front suspension and the double wishbone rear suspension have been re-engineered with improvements in torsional stiffness and roll rigidity. Front shock absorber and rear lateral force steer specifications have also been upgraded.

New, large diameter wheels with wider tyres are fitted to further enhance stability and dynamic handling. A flush underfloor design aids high speed stability, reduces noise and contributes to fuel efficiency through improved aerodynamics.

SUPERIOR QUALITY AND ENHANCED SAFETY

New Toyota Avensis is set to build on the achievements of its predecessor, aiming for a five-star rating under the more stringent Euro NCAP crash testing due for introduction in 2009.

New high-tech safety features bring both active and passive safety provisions to a higher level. Seven airbags are fitted as standard, including a driver's knee airbag. Active front seat headrests have been introduced to reduce whiplash injuries in the event of a rear end collision.

Steering assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) is new to the model, a system which increases the protection provided by a regular VSC system by adding steering torque assist to counter any yaw movement during sudden changes in handling or on slippery surfaces. In an emergency situation the driver may sense torque movement on the steering wheel in a given direction to help ensure the right steering input is made to compensate the under- or oversteer.

Where High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights are specified, the driver further benefits from the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS). This adjusts the angle of the headlamps in line with the vehicle speed and turning angle to improve illumination through bends and junctions. Dynamic headlamp levelling maintains the angle of the headlamp under heavy braking or acceleration.

New Toyota Avensis is fitted as standard with an emergency brake signal, which activates flashing brake lights to warn following vehicles of sudden hard braking.

Top grade versions of the 2.2 D-4D 150 with six-speed automatic transmission will have the option of a new Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system. This can predict the risk of an imminent collision and take action to alert the driver and reduce the risk of damage or injury. If it senses a crash to be unavoidable, it automatically activates the seatbelt pretensioners and applies full braking force to lessen the impact.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) works in tandem with PCS, using the same advanced radar technology to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even if that vehicle varies its speed. Once the road ahead is clear, ACC automatically returns to the preset cruising speed.

PCS comes with the added benefit of Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA). These systems help prevent unintended lane changes by giving an audible warning and applying corrective steering wheel torque to help the driver stay on the right course.

Improved NVH performance

New Toyota Avensis has considerably lower NVH levels, with the use of Toyota's lightweight insulation material helping cut interior noise significantly - by 5dB. The new model is among the quietest in the D-segment, with performance that comes close to that of premium models.

This has been achieved thanks to a stiff chassis, advanced aerodynamics and careful positioning of materials without adding unnecessary weight by over-use of insulation.

Toyota Avensis has a well-earned reputation for quality, durability and reliability, attributes reflected in its strong performance in independent customer satisfaction surveys, such as the annual study by J.D. Power and Associates. It has received numerous accolades from the motoring media and organisations, including a best-in-segment rating from ADAC, Europe's largest automobile club.

New Toyota Avensis will continue to be built exclusively at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK's factory at Burnaston. The TMUK plant in Deeside will supply the 1.6 (not available in the UK) and 1.8 Valvematic engines and Toyota Motor Industries Poland will supply the 2.0 and 2.2 D-4D engines. The new six-speed manual transmission is sourced from Toyota Motor Manufacturing Poland.

ADVANCED EQUIPMENT LEVELS

In keeping with the "cutting edge of the D-segment" positioning expressed by Chief Engineer Takashi Yamamoto, new Toyota Avensis will benefit from advanced technology in its equipment specifications.

Details of the UK grade structure and detailed equipment features will be announced nearer the car's on-sale date.

Within the range, features that will be available will include dual zone automatic air conditioning, automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, cruise control with speed limiter, full-map touch-screen satellite navigation with Bluetooth, Smart Entry and Start system, a panoramic roof for the Toyota Avensis Tourer, and an 11-speaker premium audio system with the 10Gb hard disc drive.

The New Toyota RAV4

Equipped with numerous enhancements for 2009, the average MSRP for the Toyota RAV4 will increase by $224, or 0.9 percent. The 2009 Toyota RAV4 will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in early September.

The 2009 Toyota RAV4 is offered in three distinct grades - Base, performance-oriented Sport and top-of-the-line Limited - and with a choice between an all-new four-cylinder and powerful V6 engines with either front-wheel drive or electronic on-demand four-wheel-drive.

The base MSRP for the 2009 Toyota RAV4 ranges from $21,500 for the Base grade front-wheel-drive with a four-cylinder engine to $27,810 for the Limited grade four-wheel-drive with a V6 engine. Prices for all Base grade models remain unchanged from 2008, reflecting RAV4's excellent value.

All models will also offer Extra Value Packages containing many of Toyota RAV4's most popular stand alone option features at substantial savings. Savings on Extra Value Packages for all three grades range from $570 on Base, $1,000 on the Sport, and $2,000 on Limited.

For 2009, Toyota RAV4 adds an all-new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that is more powerful and more fuel efficient than the previous 2.4-liter engine. In addition, all Toyota RAV4 models feature numerous interior upgrades and a stylish new Sport Appearance Package is available for the 4WD V6 model.

The Sport Appearance Package available for the 4WD V6 RAV4 model includes an exclusive look with a redesigned rear door featuring chrome accents and no spare tire. The package equips the Toyota RAV4 with run-flat tires. Other external cues include color-keyed power heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, a stainless steel exhaust tip, unique badging, and the choice of an exclusive exterior color, Elusive Blue Metallic. Inside, the Sport Appearance Package adds a chrome accented shift knob with leather insert, chrome interior door handles, parking brake and vent trim, unique sport grade doorsills and available sport floor mats.

The Sport Appearance Package includes an AM/FM six-disc CD changer with six speakers, MP3/WMA playback capability and integrated XM® Satellite Radio with a one-year extended complementary service subscription.

The Toyota RAV4's standard all-new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is a low-friction design optimized for performance and fuel efficiency. It produces 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, along with 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 RPM (versus 166 horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of peak torque of the previous 2.4-liter engine). The 2.5-liter engine employs Dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts (compared to the intake-only previous 2.4-liter engine).

The redesigned four-cylinder engine is partnered with a new four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission that is more compact, lightweight and efficient than the previous four-speed transmission. The new transmission is not only smoother in operation than the previous one, but more responsive as well. Fuel efficiency is excellent for its class and improved over the 2008 model with EPA mpg estimates of 22 city/28 highway on 4x2 models and 21 city/27 highway on 4x4 models.

The available 3.5-liter V6 is the powerhouse of its segment, generating a class-leading 269 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 246 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 RPM. The V6 is also equipped with dual independent VVT-i to maximize performance and efficiency while reducing emissions. Equipped exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission, the V6 RAV4 models offer greater fuel efficiency compared to less powerful competitors. The V6 RAV4 can accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in under seven seconds, yet has estimated EPA fuel economy mpg ratings of 19 city/27 highway for 4x2 models and 19 city/26 highway for 4x4 models. All Toyota RAV4 models meet Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV II) certification.

Toyota Auris SR revealed in UK

Toyota has revealed to the U.K. the new Toyota Auris SR as a follow up to the Auris SR180. Running on either a 1.6 liter dual VVT-i petrol engine or a 2.0 liter D-4D 130 diesel, Toyota is trying to push the Auris on customers looking for a sporty, small family car that is not a VW Golf. The new models should help Toyota meet their target of having the one-year-old Auris represent about a third of their total sales in the U.K.

Rolling around on 17-inch alloys, Toyota has given the SR more sports-minded styling cues to further distinguish this from the SR180. The car comes with a lowered sports suspension and a rear spoiler. Also included are nine airbags in case you push the SR a little too much. Climate control, leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, fog lights, and a six-speaker sound system are some of the features standard on this car.

Toyota introduced the updated Auris TR in addition to the new Auris SR. The TR now includes dual zone airco so perfect temperature can be achieved by both passenger and driver. The facelift includes 16-inch alloys, blue seat trim, with chrome detailing at the rear. The TR has the same airbags and sound system as the SR. Engine options for the TR include 1.4 liter and 1.6 liter VVT-i petrol engines, and a 2.0 D-4D 130 diesel. MultiMode transmission comes optional on this car.

The new Toyota Auris SR comes as a three- or five-door starting at £14,495. The "revised" Toyota Auris TR three-door begins at £12,995

The New Toyota TRD Hilux

TRD HILUX - LESS FUEL, MORE PERFORMANCE

Toyota's new TRD HiLux sports ute achieves better fuel economy while significantly improving performance compared with the standard vehicle. TRD chief engineer Stephen Castles said the supercharged TRD HiLux uses a fraction less fuel than the naturally aspirated engine in the HiLux SR5 double cab.

"TRD HiLux is more fuel-efficient while power increases more than 25 per cent and torque by almost 20 per cent," Mr Castles said. "The standard HiLux 4.0-litre V6 petrol engine produces maximum torque of 376Nm at 3800rpm, which makes it a terrific workhorse," he said. "Our TRD engineers focused on excellent low to mid-range torque to give TRD HiLux even more pulling power. In fact, from just above idle right through to around 5700rpm, the TRD HiLux generates more torque than the standard vehicle's maximum. As a result, we have achieved a 0-100km/h acceleration time in the low seven-second range."

Mr Castles said the supercharged engine is Euro IV-compliant. He said the Eaton M90 supercharger and intercooler were developed jointly by TRD, Toyota Motor Sales (US) and Magnuson Products Inc. TRD HiLux has undergone extensive testing, including hot-weather hill-climbs and towing in central Australia, high-speed and load tests at Phillip Island and Winton raceways, plus cold-weather tests at Mt Hotham.

"TRD HiLux will have improved grip under all conditions, with sharper steering and handling," Mr Castles said. "Bigger brakes result in shorter stopping distances and greater resistance to fade. Overall, drivers will notice a flatter, more controlled body motion with enhanced ride comfort that is more in keeping with an SUV than a truck. We are also proud of the fact that the TRD enhancements have improved the renowned off-road capabilities of the HiLux," he said.

TRD HiLux, which features 17-inch alloy wheels, is being officially unveiled at the Melbourne International Motor Show from 29 February ahead of its April launch.

The New Toyoya iQ

Toyota to present two new additions to its small car line-up at Geneva Motor Show

• World premiere of Toyota’s revolutionary new iQ urban car
• European premiere of Toyota’s new small SUV, the Urban Cruiser

At the Geneva Motor Show, Toyota will unveil the production design of its all-new small car – Toyota iQ. First shown as the Concept Car iQ at last year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, iQ will go into production during late 2008.

iQ represents a break-through in compact urban transportation. For a first, up to three passengers can be comfortably seated in a compact urban vehicle at sub three metres in length, and additionally have enough area to accommodate a child or luggage.

The spaciousness of iQ is a result of its ingenious packaging, which was created by six space-saving but inter-linked engineering innovations that represent a revolution in Toyota’s automotive vehicle development.

Infused with Japanese design elements, iQ is a radical change in vehicle design as well as environmentally friendly transportation, and away from the belief that small cars are basic and less safe.

Toyota also uses the Geneva Motor Show to present a new extension of its sports utility vehicle line-up into the small car segment: Toyota Urban Cruiser.

This new Toyota is an environmentally responsible small SUV aimed at the urban all-roader market. It provides an answer to consumer desires for SUVs but with low fuel consumption and low emissions.

In addition, Toyota will also show its latest advances in urban environmental transport solutions, a Plug-in Hybrid prototype as well as two concept cars: the Toyota 1/X Plug-in Hybrid concept in combination with Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) technology, and the i-Real personal mobility concept.