Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/aston-martin-shows-off-the-completed-cygnet-euro-sales-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Aston Martin Cygnet - Click above for high-res image gallery

Earlier this year, we saw photos of Aston Martin designers working on a clay-covered Toyota iQ in the studio and applying typical Aston styling cues to it. Creating a leather clad urban commuter car struck us as a dubious proposition for an upscale brand like Aston Martin, but nevertheless the Cygnet is now complete and Aston has released a fresh batch of photos.

While the Aston Martin face is well suited to the extended nose of a DBS or Rapide, we think it looks more than a bit overwrought on the front of the tiny Toyota. On the inside, virtually all of the available surfaces have been covered in red and black premium leather. For the time being, the Cygnet is a concept only, but Aston says it hopes to have it in production in 2010 for European and UK customers. There's no word yet on price, but in the meantime, you can check out our high-res gallery below and brief press release after the jump.


Gallery: Aston Martin Cygnet


[Source: Aston Martin]

Continue reading Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010

Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Aston Martin2011 Aston Martin Cygnet2011AstonMartin2011AstonMartinCygnetastonaston martinAston Martin CygnetAston Martin Cygnet conceptAstonMartinAstonMartinCygnetAstonMartinCygnetConceptCygnetmicrocarSmart fortwoSmartFortwotoyotatoyota iqToyotaIqWed, 16 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: Toyota teases new hybrid concept vehicle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-toyota-to-debut-new-hybrid-concept-vehicle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-toyota-to-debut-new-hybrid-concept-vehicle/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-toyota-to-debut-new-hybrid-concept-vehicle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota Hybrid Concept teaser - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota, the Undisputed Heavyweight Hybrid Champion of the World, has just announced that it will unveil a new gas-electric concept vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show next month. Beyond that, details are decidedly scarce. As a dedicated model, this apparently won't be a hybridized version of a current Toyota model but a new vehicle entirely, and, judging by the two teaser images released with the announcement, it doesn't appear to be quite like anything the automaker has shown us before.

With that out of the way, let's speculate a bit. We've been hearing that Toyota is considering expanding its Prius range with both a sporty coupe and a roomier wagon, so this could be a conceptual version of one of those models. Or not. We'll find out for sure on January 11 when we point our own DSLR lenses at the concept in Detroit. In the meantime, feel free to hit the jump for the extremely brief press release and peruse the two high-res teaser images in our gallery below.


Gallery: Toyota Hybrid Concept Teaser


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: Toyota teases new hybrid concept vehicle

Detroit Preview: Toyota teases new hybrid concept vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitDetroit 2010detroit auto showDetroit2010DetroitAutoShowgas-electrichybridNAIASpriustoyotatoyota concepttoyota concept cartoyota hybridtoyota hybrid conceptToyotaConceptToyotaConceptCarToyotaHybridToyotaHybridConceptMon, 14 Dec 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Australian Yaris ad gets banned for being raunchy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-australian-yaris-ad-gets-banned-for-being-raunchy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-australian-yaris-ad-gets-banned-for-being-raunchy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-australian-yaris-ad-gets-banned-for-being-raunchy/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


"Clean Getaways" - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Controversy's rearing its tawdry head Down Under as a Toyota film contest has got some laughing, others crying foul play. The Clever Film Competition solicited contestants to come up with 30-second commercial clips for the Toyota Yaris, awarding $7000 (well, Australian dollars anyway) to the winning entry. And while the rules stated that the entries cannot be "immoral" or "contain any obscene language," one contestant evidently felt the boundaries ought to be pushed a little. And the judges evidently agreed.

The winning entry - entitled "Clean Getaways" - portrays a young Yaris driver picking up his date and encountering her father at the door. The exchange between them is packed with more innuendo than a porn star's Lamborghini, and though Toyota's local spokesman says they're not distancing themselves from the clip, public outcry has resulted in it being pulled from the contest website. Fortunately, we've got it posted after the jump for your enjoyment... just don't watch it with the boss hovering around. Or the wife, for that matter. On second thought, better watch it when no one's around. But watch it just the same. Cheers to Mark and Oleg for the tips!

[Sources: news.com.au; Toyota via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Australian Yaris ad gets banned for being raunchy

VIDEO: Australian Yaris ad gets banned for being raunchy originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Toyota Yaris2009ToyotaYaris2010 Toyota Yaris2010ToyotaYarisaustraliaclean getawaysCleanGetawaysclever film compclever film competitionCleverFilmCompCleverFilmCompetitiontoyotaToyota AUtoyota Australiatoyota yaristoyota yaris adtoyota yaris clean getawaystoyota yaris clever film comptoyota yaris clever film competitiontoyota yaris commercialtoyota yaris contestToyotaAuToyotaAustraliaToyotaYarisToyotaYarisAdToyotaYarisCleanGetawaysToyotaYarisCleverFilmCompToyotaYarisCleverFilmCompetitionToyotaYarisCommercialToyotaYarisContestviralviral videoViralVideoyarisMon, 14 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota running all North American plants on overtime to meet demand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-toyota-running-all-north-american-plants-on-overtime-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-toyota-running-all-north-american-plants-on-overtime-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/report-toyota-running-all-north-american-plants-on-overtime-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Toyota RAV4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

For over a decade, Toyota had been frantically building up its North American infrastructure to build more and more cars and trucks. The plan was going smoothly until the new car market collapsed, leaving barren plants in its wake. But it appears as though Toyota is getting back on its feet. Automotive News now reports that the Japanese automaker is now running all of its North American plants on overtime to meet demand and replenish depleted vehicle reserves.

Among the Toyota plants cranking at full steam is the company's Woodstock, Ontario plant that produces the RAV4. Compact crossovers are hot in the market right now and the Japanese automaker is reportedly looking to add a second shift to crank out more copies of its popular (not so) little CUV. Adding a second shift to the facility will result in 800 new hires at the plant; news that is sure to be well received in the region. The plan is to get the workers trained and have both shifts running at an annualized rate of 150,000 vehicles by April 1. Toyota has even increased Corolla production by adding Saturday shifts at its soon-to-close New United Motor Manufacturing Inc. facility in Fremont, California. In spite of the increased demand for its efficient compact, Toyota reportedly doesn't plan to reverse its plan to close the factory by the end of March, and the move could be a case of Toyota stockpiling production as it adjusts to life without NUMMI.


Gallery: 2009 Toyota RAV4


[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd]

REPORT: Toyota running all North American plants on overtime to meet demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>manufacturingplant productionPlantProductiontoyotatoyota corollatoyota ravv4ToyotaCorollaToyotaRavv4Fri, 11 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Feat of Clay: We take a peek inside Toyota's Calty design center]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/feat-of-clay-we-take-a-peek-inside-toyotas-calty-design-center/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/feat-of-clay-we-take-a-peek-inside-toyotas-calty-design-center/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/feat-of-clay-we-take-a-peek-inside-toyotas-calty-design-center/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Toyota's Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, CA - Click above for high-res image gallery

In anticipation of the debut of the all-new 2011 Toyota Sienna at the 2009 LA Auto Show in December, the folks responsible for the minivan invited us to take a peek inside their Calty design center in Newport Beach, California. Calty Design Research is the Toyota design center that created production cars like the '78, '90 and '00 Toyota Celica, '07 FJ Cruiser, '07 Tundra, '08 Highlander, '08 Scion xB, and '09 Venza, as well as the Lexus LF-C, FT-SX, Scion t2B, Scion FUSE, FT-HS and A-BAT concepts.

It's not very often that they open the doors of this design center to the public - let alone journalists - so we jumped at the chance. We spent a day with the group directly responsible for the 2011 Sienna and also met with Calty and Toyota officials. It was an enlightening day in which we learned about what inspired this third generation people-hauler, what Calty offers to differentiate it from other Toyota design houses, and why full-size clay models are still so important in the world of design, among other things.

Follow the jump to travel with us past the velvet rope and into Calty.


Gallery: Calty Design Research Tour

Continue reading Feat of Clay: We take a peek inside Toyota's Calty design center

Feat of Clay: We take a peek inside Toyota's Calty design center originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Caltycalty design researchCaltyDesignResearchdesigndesign housedesignerdesignersDesignHousefeaturedlexuslexus designLexusDesignscionscion designScionDesigntoyotatoyota designToyotaDesignTue, 08 Dec 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i>: Over 40 percent of 'sudden acceleration' claims involve Toyota]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/consumer-reports-over-40-percent-of-sudden-acceleration/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/consumer-reports-over-40-percent-of-sudden-acceleration/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/consumer-reports-over-40-percent-of-sudden-acceleration/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We're guessing you've heard about Toyota's massive 3.8 million vehicle recall for unintended acceleration. It appears to be an issue that could have potentially resulted in several deaths and reports of hundreds of accidents. Consumer Reports wanted to dig deeper on the matter, studying National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data for the 2008 model year. CR chose 2008 because the claims occurred prior to the widespread media coverage that has resulted in a flood of new complaints.

In studying NHTSA's accumulated 5,916 reports CR found that 166 involved unintended acceleration complaints. Of those, 128 were reported prior to August 28, 2009, when a California family was killed in a Lexus sedan experiencing uncontrollable acceleration. Of those 128 complaints, 47 came from Toyota and five from Lexus, representing 41 percent of overall unintended acceleration complaints. That's obviously a disproportionate amount of reports for an automaker with 16 percent of the US market's overall share. Here's one complaint logged by NHTSA.
"I felt the vehicle [2008 Lexus ES 350] increasing in speed to about 90 mph, without depressing the accelerator. I had been on cruise control at about 73 mph... [A] passenger screamed at me to slow down. I was unable to do so, even after stepping forcefully on the brakes."
While Toyota had a disproportionate amount of unintended acceleration claims, the Japanese automaker wasn't alone. Ford received an also high 36 overall complaints, or 28 percent of all U.S. models. The F-150 appears to have been one of the Blue Oval's main culprits, and complaints ranged from a gas pedal that was too wide to an engine that decided to go buck wild.
"The engine immediately increased in rpm to the point where the rear tires began spinning on the gravel. I put the transmission in Neutral and the engine rpm increased. I removed my foot from the brake and the engine continued at a very high rpm. I then depressed and released the accelerator and the engine returned to a normal idle."
While Toyota and Ford have the lion's share of unintended acceleration claims, other automakers have a disproportionately low amount of complaints. Chrysler came in with 11 complaints, GM had seven, Honda had five and Nissan had three. Head over to Consumer Reports for its full report and more information on unintended acceleration.

UPDATE: Numbers and percentages mentioned in second paragraph further clarified.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Consumer Reports: Over 40 percent of 'sudden acceleration' claims involve Toyota originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 ford f-1502008 lexus es3502008FordF-1502008LexusEs350ford f-150FordF-150toyotatoyota recallToyotaRecallunintended accelerationUnintendedAccelerationTue, 08 Dec 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Prior driver of loaner Lexus in fatal crash told dealer of floormat issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/07/report-prior-driver-of-loaner-lexus-in-fatal-crash-told-dealer/#commentsFiled under: ,



A few weeks ago, we learned that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ruled that the crash of a loaner Lexus ES350 that killed San Diego police officer Mark Saylor, his wife, 13-year-old daughter and brother in law was not just the result of an improper RX400h floor mat sticking the accelerator wide open it was due to a range of factors. In addition to the car having the wrong mats, the brake "rotors were discolored and heated, had very rough surfaces, had substantial deposits of brake pad material, and showed signs of bright orange oxidation on the cooling fins consistent with endured braking."

According to the San Diego Union Tribune, it turns out that three days before the crash, Frank Bernard had been given the loaner Lexus and experienced the floor mat sticking the throttle wide open. "[W]hile merging onto Interstate 15 from the Poway Road on-ramp, [Bernard] took his foot off the gas and the car kept accelerating, to 85 mph." Here's where it gets even more tragic:

"Bernard pressed long and hard on the brakes and was able to pull over and slow down. He put the car into neutral, but the engine continued to race at full speed. After several failed attempts at turning off the engine, he realized the floor mat had jammed the gas pedal. He slid his foot under the accelerator, dislodged it and had no further problems, the report says."

As stated above, without brake-assist (which would disappear after a few moments due to loss of engine vacuum at wide-open throttle) Bernard was able to stop the car, but the brakes would have been fairly stressed. Bernard returned the car to the dealership, but only told a receptionist about the floor mat incident. For her part, the receptionist at first stated she didn't remember Bernard or his story, but later changed her tune, stating that she told a vehicle specialist about the issue. The vehicle specialist denies ever hearing about it. And the vice president of Bob Baker Lexus El Cajon has no comment.

The question then becomes if the proper personnel had been alerted to Mr. Bernard's incident, would the ES350 have received new brakes and the correct mats before it was lent to the Saylors? It should also be noted that the ES350 was loaned to two other customers between Bernard and the Saylors without incident. Toyota has since recalled 3.8 million vehicles to reshape and replace accelerator pedals.

[Source: San Diego Union Tribune]

REPORT: Prior driver of loaner Lexus in fatal crash told dealer of floormat issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Floor Mat RecallFloor matsFloorMatRecallFloorMatsLexusLexus ES350Lexus RecallLexusEs350LexusRecallNHTSAToyotaToyota Floor MatToyota Floor Mat RecallToyota RecallToyotaFloorMatToyotaFloorMatRecallToyotaRecallMon, 07 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota tops Kelley Blue Book best resale value awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/toyota-tops-kelley-blue-book-best-resale-value-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/toyota-tops-kelley-blue-book-best-resale-value-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/toyota-tops-kelley-blue-book-best-resale-value-awards/#commentsFiled under: , ,

According to the experts-of-such-things at Kelley Blue Book, the average vehicle will only retain about 35 percent of its original value after the initial five-year ownership period, often making depreciation the greatest expense incurred by drivers over that time period. That's a hefty chunk of change to be sure, so a vehicle's anticipated resale value should be of prime concern when shopping for your next car or truck.

Since 2003, KBB has published its Best Resale Value Awards, which seek to inform consumers of projected resale value for any particular model after five years and 75,000 miles worth of service. Considering its historic reputation for quality, it comes as little surprise that Toyota takes home the trophy as the brand with the best projected resale value and that its subsidiary Lexus grabs the award in the luxury category. We have to wonder, though, how the company's many current woes might damage its perceived value down the line.

Making up the Top 10 Models for 2010 are the Audi A5, BMW M3, Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro SS, Honda CR-V, Mini Cooper and Clubman along with the Prius, RAV4 and Tacoma from Toyota. See here for a more comprehensive list and make the jump for the official press release.

[Source: KBB]

Continue reading Toyota tops Kelley Blue Book best resale value awards

Toyota tops Kelley Blue Book best resale value awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto awardAutoAwardbest resale valueBestResaleValuecar awardCarAwardkbbkbb resaleKbbResalekelley blue bookkelley blue book resaleKelleyBlueBookKelleyBlueBookResalelexuslexus resaleLexusResaleresaleresale valueResaleValueresidualresidual valueresidualsResidualValuetoyotatoyota resaleToyotaResaleThu, 03 Dec 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Scion xB Release Series 7.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just yesterday we shared with you some pics of and specs on the latest Scion Release Series, the xB 7.0. It's a tradition of sorts for Scion to come out with a new Release at the LA Auto Show. For this go-around, Scion seems to have been indulging in some fermented grapes, as the bloody thing is painted Murasaki! That would be purple for those of us not fluent in Japanese. Well, we have just one thing to say now that we've seen it in person, we're glad it's going to be limited to just 2,000 units.

It's not so much the underlying xB, or the DAMD body kit, or the custom stitching on the interior. It's not the TRD springs for sure, and the new exhaust tips aren't that bad. It's just that when the whole thing is swathed in purple, we can't get past the color. In any case, you can check out the high-res gallery below and the press release after the jump and judge the 7.0 for yourself.


Gallery: LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0


Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 7.0


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowRelease Series 7.0ReleaseSeries7.0scionscion releaseScion xBScion xB Release Series 7.0ScionReleaseScionXbScionXbReleaseSeries7.0special editionSpecialEditiontoyotaxBxB Release Series 7.0XbReleaseSeries7.0Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Third-Gen 2011 Toyota Sienna is a rock star]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-toyota-sienna-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-toyota-sienna-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-toyota-sienna-at-2009-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Toyota Sienna live in LA - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota finally took the wraps off their new 2011 Sienna minivan and we have to say, it looks pretty good in person. Although Toyota sent out some teaser shots this morning, we just got back from the official unveiling at the LA Auto Show and have a whole batch of live shots and quite a few more media pics for you to browse. We were quite shocked by the size of the crowd at this press conference, perhaps showing that even though the minivan market may be shrinking, it still meets a sizable need.

We were also a bit surprised to run into Ford's J. Mays and Mark Fields, and they reminded us that you have to stay abreast of the competition lest you die. They would neither confirm nor deny the return of the Aerostar. Besides the top-level Limited model on stage, Toyota also showed off a pre-production SE, which sits a little lower on a stiffened suspension and 19-inch alloys. It also sports a body kit, a revised grille and carbon fiber in place of wood inside.

Also make sure you check out the 2011 Sienna's trick 16-inch LCD monitor for rear seat passengers and the reclining seats with extendable footrests, two features we've never seen in this segment before.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna


Gallery: 2011 Toyota Sienna


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2009: Third-Gen 2011 Toyota Sienna is a rock star originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 sienna2011 Toyota2011 toyota sienna2011Sienna2011Toyota2011ToyotaSiennala 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowSiennatoyotatoyota siennaToyotaSiennaWed, 02 Dec 2009 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna could wear a Lexus badge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-2011-toyota-sienna-could-wear-a-lexus-badge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-2011-toyota-sienna-could-wear-a-lexus-badge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-2011-toyota-sienna-could-wear-a-lexus-badge/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Toyota Sienna SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the new third-generation 2011 Toyota Sienna shows up in dealerships next February, parents should head straight to their closest dealer after dropping the kids at soccer. Notice we didn't say "Moms." We said "parents." Although other minivan makers have attempted to butch up their people movers in the past, those efforts have been mostly lamentable. Toyota, on the other hand, has actually made a van (there's nothing mini about this new Sienna) that arguably looks sporty enough to chip away at the undeserved mommy-mobile stigma of the class. Don't let that purse tray dissuade you.

And if NASCAR dads drag their feet a bit before heading over to trade in the old Previa or Chevrolet Suburban, they may choose the sportier SE in the showroom come April. While even the base Sienna will boast a design theme that looks surprisingly assertive, the SE adds an aggressive body kit and 19-inch six-spoke wheels to go with its stiffer suspension and remapped transmission programming. There's also a different grille and clear tail lamps. Unfortunately, there won't be a TRD supercharger underhood or even a cold air intake or freer-flowing exhaust to up the power, but on looks alone, this thing might have what it takes to broaden the appeal of minivans to the XY set.

Debuting at the LA Auto Show today, the 2011 Sienna looks like a more macho 2009 Sienna cross-bred with Toyota's Venza crossover. The family resemblance is striking, particularly from the rear. Nifty details are to be found all around - things like the cleverly hidden high-mounted rear wiper. Toyota promises that this third-generation Sienna will also drive more like a sedan while still swallowing people and cargo with equal ease.

We've had an advanced in-person look at this model, and the seven or eight people who find themselves filling the seats inside this new Sienna figure to be impressed by the Lexus-like interior with its new three-tone color scheme, ample use of wood, and clever luxury touches. Particularly "wow" inducing are the wooden swoosh across the dash, the second row seats with their integrated retractable leg rests that slide a long way forward to grant access to the power-operated 60/40 Split & Stow third row, and the 16-inch dual view LCD screen for rear seat entertainment. Yes, sixteen.

Built on a revised version of the outgoing platform, the 2011 Sienna has the same wheelbase but is slightly shorter, lower and wider than its predecessor. It will be available in five different trim levels: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive will still be available on V6-powered LE, XLE and Limited models. That V6 is the same 3.5-liter Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) unit available today, with 266 horsepower. The engine is stout enough to give the Sienna a 3,500-pound tow capacity while returning mileage of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Also available in Sienna and LE will be the VVT-i 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horses and a slight bump in mileage to 19/26.

We'll have lots to say about this new Sienna after our first drive in a couple of weeks, but for now, you can read more about it in the press release we've pasted after the jump and check out high-res shots in our gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Toyota Sienna


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna could wear a Lexus badge

LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna could wear a Lexus badge originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 sienna2011 Toyota2011 toyota sienna2011Sienna2011Toyota2011ToyotaSiennaLA 2009LA autoshowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoshowlaautoshow2009LaShowminivanSiennatoyotaToyota minivanToyotaMinivanWed, 02 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Serbian team reportedly in talks to take over Toyota F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/serbian-team-reportedly-in-talks-to-take-over-toyota-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/serbian-team-reportedly-in-talks-to-take-over-toyota-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/serbian-team-reportedly-in-talks-to-take-over-toyota-f1/#commentsFiled under: ,



Reports of Toyota F1's demise may prove to have been exaggerated as the latest rumors from the racing world suggest that the Japanese automaker is in discussions with a Serbian outfit about taking over the Cologne-based racing team.

Stefan Grand Prix is backed by Serbian engineering firm AMCO and headed by one Zoran Stefanovic, who, like N.Technology, filed an official complaint over the FIA's selection process for new teams. His suit was rejected, but Stefanovic remained determined. The departure of Toyota from the scene and the availability of its assets - including its 2010 car design and the all-important entry slot for next year's championship - may prove to be his way in. The deal could involve Toyota sticking around to supply engines for the next few years, and Kamui Kobayashi could be part of the package, operating from the current facility in Cologne, Germany, until the move to Serbia could be completed.

For its part, Toyota is likely trying to find a way to get around its commitments under the Concorde Agreement to remain in the series, the failure of which to honor could cost Toyota hundreds of millions in fines. Meanwhile if Stefan Grand Prix manages to pull it off, they'll have successfully circumnavigated the allegedly flawed selection process and secured their spot on the grid. Stefanovic denies the prospect of his outfit simply stepping in to Toyota's place, but confirmed that negotiations are under way.

Meanwhile Sauber - which just reacquired itself from BMW in the wake of the failed Qadbak deal - was hoping Toyota would default on its agreement, thereby giving them the green light. If the Stefan deal goes through, Sauber could be locked out, unless the powers-that-be opt to let them in as an unprecedented 14th entry.

[Source: F1-Live | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

Serbian team reportedly in talks to take over Toyota F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amcof1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneserbiastefanstefan gpstefan grand prixStefanGpStefanGrandPrixstefanovictoyotatoyota f1ToyotaF1zoran stefanovicZoranStefanovicMon, 30 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota dealers caught off guard by pedal recall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-toyota-dealers-caught-out-by-pedal-entrapment-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-toyota-dealers-caught-out-by-pedal-entrapment-recall/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/report-toyota-dealers-caught-out-by-pedal-entrapment-recall/#commentsFiled under: ,



Last week Toyota publicly announced that it was recalling 3.8 million Avalon, Camry and Lexus ES 350 models on account of fears over unintended acceleration. The fix for Toyota's sudden acceleration issue includes the reshaping and/or replacing of accelerator pedals, with replacement pedals reportedly arriving in April. As you'd probably guess, the massive recall has led to many customers calling dealers for additional info, but unfortunately dealers weren't exactly prepared to respond.

Wards Automotive is reporting that Toyota didn't inform its dealer body of the proposed changes, which apparently includes the reconfiguration of the floor of some models, before the announcement was made. The industry trade journal says that a Toyota spokesman told them that the severity of the situation meant there was no time to inform dealers first, though all dealers have been informed by now.

Wards spoke to a couple dealers who sound more than a little frustrated by the situation. Earl Stewart of Earl Stewart Toyota of North Palm Bay, FL reportedly called the situation "confusing" and "embarrassing," adding that his dealership has been fixing floor mats the past few months without getting paid by Toyota for their work.

While we agree that Toyota was right in getting this information out to the public as quickly as possible, we're surprised it didn't first alert its dealer body. After all, the dealership is the public face of the company, and if customers call and dealers don't have answers, it looks like the situation is anything but under control. The official recall notices for the Avalon, Camry and ES are expected to come by year end, while five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra and Lexus IS 250/IS 350, will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

[Source: Wards Automotive, sub. req'd]

REPORT: Toyota dealers caught off guard by pedal recall originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>recallsudden accelerationSuddenAccelerationtoyotatoyota recallToyotaRecallunintended accelerationUnintendedAccelerationMon, 30 Nov 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Toyota MR2 to be reborn with hybrid power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/rumormill-toyota-mr2-to-be-reborn-with-hybrid-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/rumormill-toyota-mr2-to-be-reborn-with-hybrid-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/26/rumormill-toyota-mr2-to-be-reborn-with-hybrid-power/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Tell us if this sounds familiar: Hybrids will kill the driver-oriented sportscar. It's the line taken by no small share of enthusiasts, and some of them are among us here at Autoblog. But the skeptics were silenced - or temporarily hushed, at least - when Honda took the wraps off of its CR-Z coup concept. After all, anything that could bring back the CRX hatchback with added oomph at no extra cost at the fuel pumps has to sound good to anyone's ears, right? But you didn't think Toyota would let Honda have the fun all to itself now, did you?

It's far from official, but reports out of Japan suggest that Toyota may be working on a reborn hybrid sportscar of its own. The company once known for its sports-coupes recently unveiled the FT-86 concept, and could be set to follow up with a gasoline-electric resurrection of the cult classic MR2. The budget-friendly mid-engine/rear-drive sportscar had a big following who led the legions of the disappointed when the third-generation model was discontinued two years ago. But if the latest reports are to be believed, Mr. Two could be back - in hybrid form.

Details are scarce, but according to Japan's Best Car, we're looking at a two-seat two-door coupe with a gasoline engine mounted amidships behind the cabin, coupled to an electric motor in a more performance-oriented version of the Toyota Synergy Drive popularized by the Prius. Reports suggest it could adopt the MR-S nameplate, which is what the last MR2 was known as in Japan, so there's just as good a chance that it could wear the MR2 nameplate on this side of the Pacific. That's about all we've got for now, but if we all (Toyota included) play our cards just right, Japan's beloved budget mid-engined car could be coming back...with a charge.

[Source: Best Car via CarScoop]

Rumormill: Toyota MR2 to be reborn with hybrid power originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mid-enginemid-enginedMR-2MR-SMR2Toyotatoyota mr-stoyota mr-s hybridtoyota mr2toyota mr2 hybridToyotaMr-sToyotaMr-sHybridToyotaMr2ToyotaMr2HybridThu, 26 Nov 2009 16:33:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota may pull people out of CA, relocate to KY and MI [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/report-toyota-mulling-pulling-resources-out-of-ca-heading-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/report-toyota-mulling-pulling-resources-out-of-ca-heading-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/report-toyota-mulling-pulling-resources-out-of-ca-heading-for/#commentsFiled under: ,

While the majority of Toyota's jobs are still in Japan, the auto juggernaut has also accumulated a 34,000-employee empire here in the U.S. as well. Those jobs are scattered among ten manufacturing facilities and three main office complexes in Michigan, Kentucky and at the company's North American headquarters in Torrence, California. But the downtrodden auto industry and Toyota's recent losses have prompted the Japanese automaker to find ways to cut costs, and the company's California headquarters may lose some workers as a result.

The Detroit News is reporting that Toyota is relocating product planning, accounting, travel and data services jobs from California to its engineering and manufacturing headquarters in Kentucky and its technical center in Michigan. Toyota is neither confirming or denying the report, but the company did say it isn't going to exit California like Nissan did earlier in the decade, adding "Emphasis has been placed on finding new efficiencies, shared services and enhanced collaboration to address the changing economic conditions and prepare Toyota for the future automotive market environment." Toyota currently employs 10,700 workers in California, a number that will drop if this report proves true.

UPDATE: Toyota has released a statement that it isn't planning any "significant geographic relocation of personnel" at this time. Hit the jump to view the short release.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Continue reading REPORT: Toyota may pull people out of CA, relocate to KY and MI [UPDATE]

REPORT: Toyota may pull people out of CA, relocate to KY and MI [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>california jobsCaliforniaJobsKentuckytorrence californiaTorrenceCaliforniatoyotaWed, 25 Nov 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will recall some 3.8 million cars and trucks to reshape and/or replace their accelerator pedals. The action is the result of fears that loose floormats may cause the accelerator pedal to stick, increasing the risk of an accident. The recall will be the largest in the Japanese automaker's history, and it will cover a wide range of vehicles from the 2004 model year through 2010 - a complete list is available after the jump. The move comes after an earlier action where Toyota announced it would recall 3.8 million vehicles to only swap floor mats.

Working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Toyota will effect the recall by sending letters to owners of its Avalon, Camry, and Lexus ES 350 models by year's end. Five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS 250/IS 350 will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

The plan includes training dealer service representatives to reshape gas pedals, and Toyota will develop and ship redesigned gas pedals beginning in April. Those customers who have elected to have their pedals initially reshaped will still be able to have the pedal replaced when the updated unit becomes available. Vehicles fitted with Toyota or Lexus-made all-weather floor mats will also receive a new set of redesigned front mats.

Interestingly, Toyota will also install a a brake override system that will turn off the engine if both the accelerator and the brake are depressed simultaneously. According to Automotive News, this update will occur on "involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models 'as an extra measure of confidence.'" This action appears to be limited to vehicles that employ Toyota's push-button start system, but interestingly its hybrid-only Prius has apparently been excluded.

For its part, Toyota says the cost of the action will come entirely from its dedicated recall fund, a $5.6 billion dollar stash, and therefore, the recall will have "no effect" on its business. The news come on the heels of yesterday's announcement that Toyota will recall 2000-2003 Tundra pickups over frame rust issues.

A complete list of vehicles covered under the action and both NHTSA and Toyota's official press releases are available after the jump.

[Sources: Reuters; Automotive News; NHTSA; Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsCamryfloor matfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallLexus ISLexus IS 250Lexus IS 350Lexus IS250Lexus IS350LexusIsLexusIs250LexusIs350PriustoyotaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota PriusToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaTacomaToyotaTundratoyta recallToytaRecallWed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/toyota-extends-tundra-rust-recall-to-include-2000-03-models-tot/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If you've been following the Toyota Tundra rust saga, you're aware that NHSTA recently requested data from Toyota about the purported frame corrosion affecting 2000 and 2001 models. Today, Toyota has extended that recall to include the 2002-03 model years, saying that a small number of trucks could suffer from frame corrosion that could cause the spare tire to detach from its underbody housing. That brings the total up to 110,000 Tundras located in 20 cold-weather states and the District of Columbia.

Toyota will begin an inspection program next month which will run through January of 2010, and if you're driving one of the affected pickups, you can get all the details in the press release below the fold. Hat tip to Mike from Pickuptrucks.com.

Continue reading Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks

Toyota extends Tundra rust recall to include 2000-03 models, totalling 110,000 trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20020002000 toyota tundra2000ToyotaTundra20012001 toyota tundra recall rust2001ToyotaTundraRecallRust20022002 toyota tundra recall rust2002ToyotaTundraRecallRust20032003 toyota tundra recall rust2003ToyotaTundraRecallRustframesrecallrustspare tireSpareTiretoyotatoyota tundraToyotaTundratundraTue, 24 Nov 2009 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota blends social media and trail search tool in 4Runner marketing blitz]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/toyota-blends-social-media-and-trail-search-tool-in-4runner-mark/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/toyota-blends-social-media-and-trail-search-tool-in-4runner-mark/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/toyota-blends-social-media-and-trail-search-tool-in-4runner-mark/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Said the executive creative director of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner media campaign: "This is the last authentic SUV. All the rest have gone suburbia." By "authentic" he means dirt, surf, wilds, and maybe bears, and to show you how to get there, Toyota has rolled out the Toyota Trail Tracker.

A social media tool and soon-to-be mobile app, the trail tracker allows you to find and upload info on trails across the United States. And it isn't just for wild, rocky hellholes either (that's the 4Runner on the Rubicon Trail above) -- you can upload and find scenic drives and fire roads that lead to great surfing spots.

If you want the world to know what you did when you got there -- or how you manged to get out -- you can post photos and video to the site, as well as upload GPS data. The Trail tracker website is live now, with about 29 trails nationwide at the time of this writing. It's intriguing that one of the vehicles that led SUVs out of the wilds and into suburbia is now playing the Pied Piper to lure folks back into the woods. At least now maybe we'll get to see what it's really got.

Gallery: 2010 Toyota 4Runner Trail


[Source: Marketing Daily]

Toyota blends social media and trail search tool in 4Runner marketing blitz originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 4runner2010 toyota2010 toyota 4runner20104runner2010Toyota2010Toyota4runner4Runnersurf trackerSurfTrackertoyotatrail trackerTrailTrackerSun, 22 Nov 2009 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota U.S. president Lentz believes Prius could supplant Camry as brand's best seller]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/report-toyota-u-s-president-lentz-believes-prius-may-supplant/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/report-toyota-u-s-president-lentz-believes-prius-may-supplant/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/report-toyota-u-s-president-lentz-believes-prius-may-supplant/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Toyota Camry has been the best selling car in the US for 11 of the past 12 years, and only a total industry meltdown has managed to slow the Japanese automaker's bread-and-butter sedan. Even with that impediment, the Camry still has a comfortable lead versus its archrivals, the Honda Accord and Nissan Altima. In fact, the only vehicles to routinely beat the Camry in overall vehicle sales are the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado, and those vehicles need dozens of configurations and both regular and heavy-duty variants to retain their overall sales leads. Conversely, the Prius isn't even the second best-selling Toyota right now (that would be the Corolla), but it wouldn't surprise Toyota USA President Jim Lentz if the ubiquitous hybrid hatch passed the Camry for sales supremacy sometime next decade.

Lentz reportedly told Wards Auto that he envisions the Prius passing the Camry in the next decade, but not because he foresees the midsize sedan slipping. Instead, Lentz says, "I think Prius will become just that much stronger." The reason Toyota's top U.S. man sees the Prius taking over Toyota's top sales spot is because he feels that rising gas prices and growing eco-awareness will push more car buyers into hybrids. That, combined with the high regard in which many Americans hold the Prius makes for a very compelling long-term argument. Lentz also says that a full lineup of Prius-badged vehicles is far from a sure thing, though he says he pushes executives in that direction each time he visits Toyota's Japan headquarters

While we can see a future where the Prius overtakes the Camry for sales supremacy, we don't see it happening any time soon. Toyota's world renowned hybrid had its best-ever sales year in 2007, and 2009 numbers promise to fall about 40,000 units short of that bogey. Did we mention that the Camry is still outselling the Prius at a nearly three-to-one clip?


Gallery: Review: 2010 Toyota Prius


[Source: Wards Automotive]

REPORT: Toyota U.S. president Lentz believes Prius could supplant Camry as brand's best seller originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camrycamry salesCamrySalespriusprius salesPriusSalestoyotatoyota camrytoyota priustoyota salesToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaSalesWed, 18 Nov 2009 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Toyota launches European Land Cruiser [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/officially-official-toyota-launches-european-land-cruiser-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/officially-official-toyota-launches-european-land-cruiser-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/officially-official-toyota-launches-european-land-cruiser-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Euro-market Toyota Land Cruiser - click above for high-res image gallery

Back before SUVs became all the rage, for decades, Toyota built a bruiser of a truck called Land Cruiser. Like its counterparts from America and the UK, the Jeep CJ/Wrangler and the Land Rover Range Rover, the Land Cruiser has always delivered the biscuits for the world's hardcore off-roaders. Unwilling to give up its stranglehold as one of the world's best partners in inhospitable climates, Toyota has just launched the latest iteration of its standard Land Cruiser in Europe, and it is an altogether different (and somewhat smaller) creature than the V8 model we get here in North America.

While the Land Cruiser has gotten significantly more luxurious and upwardly mobile in recent generations, Toyota has retained its off-road capability, and that appears to remain the case here. Power for the Euro Cruiser comes from a 3.0-liter four-cylinder diesel that cranks out 171 horsepower and 302 pound-feet of torque. The body-on-frame Land Cruiser has 32- and 24-degree approach and departure angles, 8.5 inches of ground clearance and the ability to wade through 27.6 inches of water. Active roll management and active traction control allow the driver to get over and around the boulders while front and side view cameras allow the driver to see where they are. Unfortunately for the dedicated rock crawlers among us, we will likely never see this Land Cruiser on our continent - at least with a Toyota badge on it. If you're still interested, however, you can check out a video of the spanking new 'Yota getting dirty after the jump along with a full press release.


Gallery: 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Officially Official: Toyota launches European Land Cruiser [w/VIDEO]

Officially Official: Toyota launches European Land Cruiser [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land cruiserLandCruisertoyotatoyota land cruiserToyota LandcruiserToyotaLandCruiserWed, 18 Nov 2009 12:59:00 EST