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[VIDEO: With F1 program scrapped, where will Toyota Motorsports land next?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-with-f1-program-scrapped-where-will-toyota-motorsports-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-with-f1-program-scrapped-where-will-toyota-motorsports-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/video-with-f1-program-scrapped-where-will-toyota-motorsports-l/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Toyota GT-One - Click above for high-res image gallery

As Toyota president Akio Toyoda announced the withdrawal of his company from the Formula One World Championship, he reiterated Toyota's commitment to motorsport competition. But while this may have been pure lip-service, the Japanese automaker has a long history in racing, leading to speculation over where Toyota could land next. According to Toyoda:
Motor sports remain an important means of personalizing the automobile in the eyes of customers. Motor sports also remain an important means of cultivating human resources and our R&D operations. ... We will rethink our motor-sports activities with an eye to maximizing those benefits while addressing economic realities.
Even in the absence of a renewed F1 program, Toyota continues to compete in series as diverse as Formula Nippon, NHRA, Grand Am, Super GT and NASCAR. While the beancounters in Tokyo could continue to rely solely on these and other existing programs - or worse, start pulling out of more - sources point to potential racing programs at Le Mans, in the new FIA GT1 World Championship or possibly in the shifting World Rally Championship. Any of these categories would give Toyota a more direct tie-in to its road-going products, but which - if any - the Japanese motor giant will ultimately choose remains to be seen. In the meantime, enjoy the short clip after the jump highlighting the company's history and continued involvement in motor racing worldwide.

[Source: PistonHeads]

Continue reading VIDEO: With F1 program scrapped, where will Toyota Motorsports land next?

VIDEO: With F1 program scrapped, where will Toyota Motorsports land next? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F1FIA GT1FiaGt1Formula 1Formula NipponFormula OneFormula1FormulaNipponFormulaOneGrand AmGrandAmGT1NASCARNHRASuper GTSuperGttoyotatoyota fia gt1toyota le manstoyota motorsporttoyota motorsportstoyota racingtoyota racing developmenttoyota trdtoyota wrcToyotaFiaGt1ToyotaLeMansToyotaMotorsportToyotaMotorsportsToyotaRacingToyotaRacingDevelopmentToyotaTrdToyotaWrctrdWorld RallyWorldRallyWRCFri, 06 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago 2009: Lexus expands F-sport parts to includes GS, IS convertible and IS AWD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/11/chicago-2009-lexus-expands-f-sport-parts-to-includes-gs-is-con/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/11/chicago-2009-lexus-expands-f-sport-parts-to-includes-gs-is-con/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/11/chicago-2009-lexus-expands-f-sport-parts-to-includes-gs-is-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lexus F-Sport vehicles and accessories

Lexus wasn't doing much in the Windy City this week, so it used the opportunity to release a new line of F-Sport accessories for the GS, IS AWD and upcoming IS C.

Thankfully, Lexus is keeping the majority of its F-Sport items focused on performance, beginning with 18- or 19-inch wheels and six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes, each equipped with stainless steel lines and uprated brake pads. Bilstein shocks, lowering springs, sway bars, a chassis brace, clutch set, short shifter kit, intake and stainless steel exhaust round out the performance options, while a carbon fiber engine cover, shift knob and floor mats appease the dress-up crowd.

When installed by an authorized dealer, the TRD-developed performance parts carry a 12-month warranty on their own or for the balance of the new car warranty. We're looking forward to getting some seat time in a fully-kitted IS 350 equipped with all the F-Sport goodies, so stay tuned for a thorough review. Make the jump for a listing of all the F-Sport parts.

Gallery: Lexus F-Sport Accessories

Continue reading Chicago 2009: Lexus expands F-sport parts to includes GS, IS convertible and IS AWD

Chicago 2009: Lexus expands F-sport parts to includes GS, IS convertible and IS AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-sportis cIsClexuslexus gslexus is 250lexus is 350lexus is cLexusGsLexusIs250LexusIs350LexusIsCtrdWed, 11 Feb 2009 19:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Performance Test: 2008 Toyota Tundra TRD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/performance-test-2008-toyota-tundra-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/performance-test-2008-toyota-tundra-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/30/performance-test-2008-toyota-tundra-trd/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res image gallery of the Toyota Tundra TRD

We don't do much performance testing of the vehicles we review here at Autoblog, partly because we don't have the resources and also because our seat-of-the-pants-meter usually gives us the pertinent information we need about how a car (or truck, in this case) performs. There are times, however, that we do get the urge to get real, actual numbers. Take, for instance, this 2008 Toyota Tundra TRD. Last month, Motor Trend put it to the test and claimed it could muscle its way from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. While we have no doubt that this time could theoretically be achieved assuming unlimited amounts of traction, we called shenanigans and vowed to get our hands on the truck to record our own numbers. Fortunately, Toyota was game and provided the same exact Tundra TRD used in Motor Trend's test with a fresh set of rear tires. We're not here to debate the point of a performance truck or argue with those who think vehicles like this are the cause of global warming. We just want to see what it'll really run. So along with our pal Mike Levine of PickupTrucks.com, we set out to play drag racer for a day and find out. Read on to see the results.

Gallery: Performance Test: 2008 Toyota Tundra TRD


Photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Performance Test: 2008 Toyota Tundra TRD

Performance Test: 2008 Toyota Tundra TRD originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredToyotaToyota TundraToyota Tundra TRDToyota Tundra TRD 0-60 mphToyotaTundraToyotaTundraTrdToyotaTundraTrd0-60MphTRDTundraTundra TRDTundraTrdTue, 30 Dec 2008 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota AU euthanizes TRD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/toyota-au-euthanizes-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/toyota-au-euthanizes-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/19/toyota-au-euthanizes-trd/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Toyota Aurion TRD 3500S

Toyota of Australia's TRD performance arm was launched two years ago to give the brand a little flavor and add a third factory tuner option to the long-standing battle waged between Holden's HSV and Ford's FPV. Bowing with the Aurion TRD and HiLux TRD, the brand haven't exactly set the Outback on fire. Two years and just 888 sales later -- about one-fifth of HSV's depressed sales this year alone -- TRD Australia is closing up shop. Neither car ever really took off with industry pundits, being called out for a number of perceive failings. All of that -- including an economic downturn -- made it even easier to wrap the whole thing up and punt it out the window. The Australian TRD rally team is also under review. Toyota hasn't ruled out returning when conditions improve, but hopefully it will be with a better performing group of vehicles.

Gallery: 2007 TRD Aurion 3500S (AU)


Gallery: TRD HiLux (AU)


[Source: Drive.com.au]

Toyota AU euthanizes TRD originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurion trdAurionTrdaustraliafactory tunerFactoryTunerhilux trdHiluxTrdperformance carsPerformanceCarstoyotatoyota trdToyotaTrdtrdFri, 19 Dec 2008 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[MT claims TRD Supercharged Tundra can hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/mt-claims-trd-supercharged-tundra-can-hit-60-mph-in-4-4-seconds/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/mt-claims-trd-supercharged-tundra-can-hit-60-mph-in-4-4-seconds/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/mt-claims-trd-supercharged-tundra-can-hit-60-mph-in-4-4-seconds/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After reading that the latest supercharged Toyota just did 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, you might think to yourself, "Toyota doesn't make the Supra anymore, and even when they did it was turbocharged, not supercharged." And then you'd think that somebody probably did some outrageous modifications to a Camry or Corolla, or possibly even a Yaris, but no. The vehicle in question is a new Toyota, but it isn't one of those models. It's a relatively stock model in fact, with a factory warranty and factory-approved TRD parts. And it isn't a car. It's the TRD Supercharged Tundra pickup truck. Using the TRD supercharger and a few other tricks, the truck's 5.7L V8 has blossomed from 381 horsepower to 504, and torque has gone up from 401 lb-ft to 550. And MotorTrend claims they got it to run 0-60 in just just 4.4 seconds, half a second quicker than a Ram SRT-10 and faster than most high-end sports cars.

There's no doubt this is one quick vehicle, but we call BS on the time. Even with super-short gears, there's no way a truck that weighs over 5,000 lbs can do it in 4.4 seconds. Pickuptrucks.com ran the same truck through the 1/8th mile in Irwindale and managed 9.07 seconds at 81.16 mph. We'd guess the 0-60 should fall closer to 5 seconds at that pace, which is still mighty impressive. And yet, MT posted a full quarter-mile in 13 seconds flat at 106.3, so maybe TRD has done a little more work since the previous test. We're going to try and get our hands on one for an independent analysis. For now, we leave you with this point to ponder: Is it remotely possible for a 5,000+ pound Tundra, even one with Toyo Proxes S/T 285/45 R22 tires and TRD go-fast goodies, to do 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds?

[Source: MotorTrend via Pickuptrucks.com]

MT claims TRD Supercharged Tundra can hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>supercharged toyota tundrasupercharged TundraSuperchargedToyotaTundraSuperchargedTundratrdtrd tundraTrdTundraTue, 11 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Supercharged TRD Tundra will make 504 horsepower]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/10/supercharged-trd-tundra-will-make-504-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/10/supercharged-trd-tundra-will-make-504-horsepower/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/10/supercharged-trd-tundra-will-make-504-horsepower/#commentsFiled under: , ,

High horsepower trucks have come and gone. The SVT Lightning and Ram SRT10 are but two examples, but we miss the GMC Syclone something fierce, as well. Toyota is readying its TRD supercharger for the Tundra, which should help sate those who hunger for extra horsepower in their truck. An employee of Toyota of El Monte, California and member of TundraSolutions.com revealed on his forum that TRD reps brought a Sequoia to his dealership equipped with the TRD supercharger mounted on the large SUV's 5.7-liter V8 - the same V8 in the Tundra. Not only did he say that TRD claimed a rating of 504 horsepower, an increase of 123 over the stock engine, but he also got the opportunity to ride shotgun while one of his fellow employees took it for a road test. He even brought back the above picture as proof. Visit the Tundra Solutions forum to see the details of the kit and read about the test drive.

[Source: Tundra Solutions via PickupTruck.com]

Supercharged TRD Tundra will make 504 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Supercharged Toyota TundraSuperchargedToyotaTundraToyotaToyota Racing DevelopmentToyota TundraToyota Tundra SuperchargedToyota Tundra superchargerToyota Tundra TRDToyotaRacingDevelopmentToyotaTundraToyotaTundraSuperchargedToyotaTundraSuperchargerToyotaTundraTrdTRDTRD Toyota TundraTrdToyotaTundraTundraThu, 10 Apr 2008 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[TRD HiLux to make official debut in Melbourne. Honest.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/28/pics-aplenty-trd-hilux-to-make-official-debut-in-melbourne/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/28/pics-aplenty-trd-hilux-to-make-official-debut-in-melbourne/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/28/pics-aplenty-trd-hilux-to-make-official-debut-in-melbourne/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image for a hi-res gallery of the production TRD HiLux

Toyota Australia is finally ready to unleash TRD HiLux. The concept version bowed a year ago, and while the production truck was shown at the Brisbane show earlier this month (supposedly its "official" debut), the officially official debut is taking place tomorrow in Melbourne, where this all began way back when. To back that up, additional photos of the supercharged TRD HiLix have been released along with a new press release, but Toyota is still being coy with the hard numbers. All the Aussie division says is that the blown 4.0L will make around 25% more power and 20% more torque than the standard-issue HiLux SR5 Double Cab's mill, while consuming a bit less fuel, to boot. Toyota will presumably confirm the final power and torque figures tomorrow, which we expect to be around 300 hp / 330 lb-ft. That's enough to let the TRD HiLux make the 0 - 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in under 7.5 seconds. Our friends Down Under get to pound on the new sport truck in April, when it joins the TRD Aurion in showrooms. Follow the jump for Toyota's latest (but probably not the last) press release.

Gallery: TRD HiLux (AU)


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading TRD HiLux to make official debut in Melbourne. Honest.

TRD HiLux to make official debut in Melbourne. Honest. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>melbourne 2008melbourne motor showMelbourne2008MelbourneMotorShowtoyota australiaToyotaAustraliatrdtrd hiluxTrdHiluxThu, 28 Feb 2008 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Sith Pickup: Toyota Tundra Warrior]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/13/sith-pickup-toyota-tundra-warrior/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/13/sith-pickup-toyota-tundra-warrior/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/13/sith-pickup-toyota-tundra-warrior/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and we can all admit that this Toyota Tundra "Warrior" prototype has a sinister presence in its shiniest, blackest finery. That silly fake intake is still there in the grille surround, but the rest of the look is successful. It's too bad Toyota didn't pay attention to the TRD Off Road concept's schnoz; thankfully that 2007 show-goer was free of faux scoopery. The Warrior appeared at the Chicago Auto Show to gauge public reaction to the SR5-based upgrade package. We like it. In fact, we think it's the best looking Tundra we've seen. The "none more black" exterior is complemented by various touches of brushed metal on the side mirrors, door handles, and fuel door, the latter of which you'll be seeing a lot of if Toyota builds a 5.7-liter 4x4 version. There's also tinted taillight lenses and handsomely contrasting 17-inch TRD wheels, and can we get a "hell yeah" for the revised lower fascia out front?

We haven't seen any interior shots, but it reportedly banishes some of the Gladware feel of the cabin we experienced when the Tundra visted the Autoblog garage. Mirroring the outside's carbonite treatment, the interior is also decked out in inky hues with brushed metal brightwork. If and when the Warrior hits showrooms, it could be available as an upgrade on 4x2 and 4x4 models with the 4.7- and 5.7-liter V8s, so no V6 Warrior for you.

[Source: PickupTruck.com, photo: PickupTruck.com]

Sith Pickup: Toyota Tundra Warrior originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoauto showAutoShowchicagoconceptpickupprototypeshowsr5toyotatrdtrucktundrawarriorWed, 13 Feb 2008 09:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota Australia to unveil TRD HiLux in Brisbane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/toyota-australia-to-unveil-trd-hilux-in-brisbane/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/toyota-australia-to-unveil-trd-hilux-in-brisbane/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/20/toyota-australia-to-unveil-trd-hilux-in-brisbane/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image for a gallery of the TRD HiLux

Last year in Melbourne, Toyota showed off a TRD Hilux concept truck. At the time, we commented that the supercharged show truck looked pretty production ready, and thet Aussies would likely see the "concept" part of the name dropped in the future. Well, the future is now -- or February, at least. That's when Toyota Australia pulls the wraps off the production TRD Hilux, which gets the bodywork, wheels, and graphics you see here. Power numbers haven't been released yet for its blown 4.0L V6, but you can expect something in the general neighborhood of 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft underhood, along with upgraded brakes and suspension. The Outback beckons...

[Source: Toyota]

Gallery: TRD HiLux Concept

Continue reading Toyota Australia to unveil TRD HiLux in Brisbane

Toyota Australia to unveil TRD HiLux in Brisbane originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Jan 2008 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brisbane Motor ShowBrisbaneMotorShowHiLuxToyota HiLuxToyotaHiluxTRDTRD HiLuxTrdHiluxSun, 20 Jan 2008 19:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota quietly unveils FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/toyota-quietly-unveils-fj-cruiser-trail-teams-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/toyota-quietly-unveils-fj-cruiser-trail-teams-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/toyota-quietly-unveils-fj-cruiser-trail-teams-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for a gallery of the FJ Cruiser Trail Teams in Detroit

While walking around the Toyota display during the last day of the NAIAS press preview, we encountered an FJ Cruiser we'd never seen before tucked iaway in the corner. Finished in white with a white roof along with black wheels and accents, it featured "Trail Teams" badging on the IP and bodywork and "PROTOTYPE" lettering on the rear window. We rang up Toyota to get the skinny, and found out that this vehicle is coming in February.

A limited edition truck in the vein of the all-black FJ Cruiser TRD Special Edition that was offered last year, 3,200 FJ Trail Teams will be built, each with the white-and-black motif you see here. In addition to the exclusive color combo, the FJ Trail Teams' standard equipment list includes 16" TRD wheels, a TRD exhaust, rock rails, skid plates, auxiliary lamps, all-weather floormats, and the contents the Off Road Package that's optional on regular FJs. Inside, white body-color inserts can be found in the door panels and on the stereo surround, and the knobs for the shifter and transfer case are metallic. Pricing for this spiffy-looking new FJ variant hasn't been announced yet, but we should know more before its launch next month.

[Source: Toyota]

Gallery: 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition

Continue reading Toyota quietly unveils FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition

Toyota quietly unveils FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 21:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FJ CruiserFJ Cruiser Trail teamsFjCruiserFjCruiserTrailTeamslimited editionLimitedEditionspecial editionSpecialEditiontrail TeamsTrailTeamsTRDWed, 16 Jan 2008 21:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #75]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/autoblog-podcast-75/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/autoblog-podcast-75/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/24/autoblog-podcast-75/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

So, it's a couple days late - call it a summer vacation hangover and let's just move on. We had a busy weekend covering both the Woodward Dream Cruise and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, which pushed our schedule back. Once in front of our mics, we start Autoblog Podcast #75 by mulling the 2008 Honda Accord. Damon regales us with the story of the Cadillac CTS media launch out at Laguna Seca. GM's made enough progress that we can just drop the "for a GM" modifier from the sentence "The new CTS is a great car." No longer able to heap abuse on the General, we look to Europe and find MINI. It seems nobody considered that the clamshell door setup on the Clubman should be engineered to swap sides, so it would always be on the passenger side, even in right-hand-drive countries. Whoops. Continuing with entertaining small cars, the Dodge Caliber SRT-4's pricing was announced. $23 large for 285 horsepower - such a deal. Big horsepower was also stuffed under a Toyota Aurion's Australian hood. The 320-odd horsepower Camry spinoff slaps our mamby-pamby weak-kneed Joe Camel Camry around pretty well. Don't change it, just send it. Speaking of car-lust, new DeLoreans are coming! $57,500 will buy you a hand built car that will net endless stupid-ass questions about the flux capacitor.

That's it - a meaty 51 minutes this week, enjoy!

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Autoblog Podcast #75 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordaurionautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastcadillaccaliberclubmanctsdeloreandodgegmhondaminipebble beachPebbleBeachpodcastsrttoyotatrdwoodwardFri, 24 Aug 2007 14:31:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #75Dan Roth51:12autoblog, podcast, toyota, mini, clubman, aurion, delorean, cadillac, cts, gm, dodge, chrysler, caliber, srt, woodward, pebble, accord, honda, 2008<![CDATA[Toyota Australia launches TRD Aurion with 323 HP]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/20/toyota-australia-launches-trd-aurion-with-323-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/20/toyota-australia-launches-trd-aurion-with-323-h/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/20/toyota-australia-launches-trd-aurion-with-323-h/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image for TRD Aurion gallery. Click here and here for more, too.

A year after it was initially shown in Sydney as the Toyota Aurion Sports Concept, and a few months after a closer-to-production version was displayed in Melbourne, Toyota Australia has officially launched the long-awaited TRD Aurion. While TRD-editions of existing Toyota vehicles have been available in many markets over the years, the TRD Aurion is the first vehicle worldwide to be sold as a TRD -- now established as a new, separate brand under Toyota, like AMG is worldwide for Mercedes, and HSV and FPV are for GM and Ford in Australia.

Viewed as a step up from the Toyota Aurion Sportivo in terms of both equipment, appearance, and performance, the TRD Aurion's greatest asset is its Eaton TVS (Twin Vortices Series) Supercharger, which sees its first production car application here. The blower gives the TRD Aurion over 323 horsepower and a torque peak of 296 lb-ft, which is channeled forward via a six-speed automatic with sequential shift. 0-100km/h (62 mph) takes 6.1 seconds, and the car is limited to a top speed of 155 mph. Neither number is particularly earth-shattering compared to other specialty models, but TRD says that the goal was to achieve all-around balance rather than all-out performance. Combined-cycle fuel economy for the TRD Aurion is 21.5 US MPG.

Follow the jump for more, including multiple press releases from Toyota Australia.

[Source: Toyota Australia]

Gallery: 2007 TRD Aurion (AU)


Gallery: 2007 TRD Aurion 3500S (AU)


Gallery: 2007 TRD Aurion 3500SL (AU)

Continue reading Toyota Australia launches TRD Aurion with 323 HP

Toyota Australia launches TRD Aurion with 323 HP originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3500S3500SLAurionbreakingtoyotatoyota auriontoyota australiaToyotaAurionToyotaAustraliaTRDTRD AurionTRD Aurion 3500 SLTRD Aurion 3500STrdAurionTrdAurion3500sTrdAurion3500SlMon, 20 Aug 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[It's the "TRD-ist" ist around]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/05/its-the-trd-ist-ist-around/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/05/its-the-trd-ist-ist-around/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/05/its-the-trd-ist-ist-around/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for gallery

The oddly-named JDM Toyota ist was formally introduced this week, and as was the case with the Toyota Blade Master, another new arrival in Japan's Toyota stores, a range of TRD accessories was announced very shortly thereafter. They do the job of dressing up the rather bland ist, which is Japan's version of the USDM Scion xD.

Naturally, there's a replacement grille, body kit, and new wheels. The look can be further augmented with branded scuff plates, TRD Sportivo suspension parts, and a TRD muffler. Hell, TRD even offers a red engine start button. The US-market Scions have always been pushed as being very customization-friendly, and really, it's no different for the JDM cars. The available accessories do a nice job of dressing things up.

[Source: Toyota via Carview]

Gallery: TRD Accessories for the Toyota ist

It's the "TRD-ist" ist around originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Aug 2007 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoriesistscion xdScionXdsportivotoyota istToyotaIsttrdxdSun, 05 Aug 2007 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[TRD ready with first upgrades for Toyota Noah and Voxy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/05/trd-ready-with-first-upgrades-for-toyota-noah-and-voxy/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/05/trd-ready-with-first-upgrades-for-toyota-noah-and-voxy/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/05/trd-ready-with-first-upgrades-for-toyota-noah-and-voxy/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota Noah w/ TRD Accessories
Click images to enlarge

Toyota Voxy w/ TRD accessoriesThe redesigned Toyota Noah and Voxy minivans for the Japanese market made news this week for being the first vehicles to make use of Toyota's new Valvematic engine technology. The cars have a following in Japan, and even though they haven't been out long enough to sit down and have a cup of coffee, TRD is already has some visual upgrades lined up for them. The Noah (above) can be gussied up with a new aero grille and Super GT-inspired (we're not making that up -- that's how Toyota's promoting it) front spoiler that looks to be a curb or speed bump away from becoming road debris. TRD has a front spoiler available for Noah's sister Voxy, too (shown at right).

[Source: Carview]

Gallery: TRD accessories for Toyota Noah, Voxy

Toyota NoahToyota Voxy

TRD ready with first upgrades for Toyota Noah and Voxy originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jdmnoahtrdvoxyThu, 05 Jul 2007 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-toyota-tundra-limited/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-toyota-tundra-limited/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/17/in-the-autoblog-garage-2007-toyota-tundra-limited/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click photo above to view a gallery of Tundra shots

I wanted to hate this thing. Toyota? Taking on the last bastion of red blooded American pickups? Yeah, right! The domestic manufacturers have kept cranking up quality, capability and refinement levels - who's this upstart think it is, anyway? Not only has the Tundra garnered a metric crapload of commentary, it's ugly. Okay, not to everyone, but it reminds me of that time I got sand in my eyelids. When a Tundra Limited Double Cab unexpectedly arrived wearing a rather appropriate shade of Herman Melville white, I was primed to register severe intestinal discomfort. Dang.

Gallery: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited

Continue reading In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited

In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 May 2007 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20074 wheel drive4wd4WheelDriveautoblogboxedc channelCChannelchevyfeaturedfordfour wheel driveFourWheelDriveframefull sizeFullSizegaragegmiforcein the autoblog garageInTheAutoblogGarageoff roadOffRoadpickuppickup]reviewtowingtoyotatrdtrucktundraunboxedv8Thu, 17 May 2007 14:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Melbourne: Toyota shows off TRD versions of Aurion sedan and HiLux pickup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/melbourne-toyota-shows-off-trd-versions-of-aurion-sedan-and-hil/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/melbourne-toyota-shows-off-trd-versions-of-aurion-sedan-and-hil/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/melbourne-toyota-shows-off-trd-versions-of-aurion-sedan-and-hil/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click image for TRD Aurion gallery. TRD HiLux gallery below.

TRD didn't just show off its new Corolla-based rally car at the Melbourne Motor Show. The Aussie wing of Toyota's factory motorsports arm also pulled the sheets off a new production car, the TRD Aurion, and a near-production-looking concept in the TRD HiLux pickup. The emergence of the special Aurion represents the world debut of TRD as a vehicle brand, opening the door for TRD versions of just about anything the automaker sets its mind to.

The TRD Aurion doesn't play around, either. This better-looking (much better looking in fact) Aussie version of the Camry gets a blown 3.5L V6 good for at least 320 horsepower. Some of you will notice that the TRD production car is essentially a dead ringer for the Aurion Sports Concept (gallery) that made its debut at the Sydney Motor Show back in October. We think the production car looks better, with less grey in the nose and much nicer-looking wheels. Sadly, Toyota thinks that the Camry has to look boring in our market. Come on guys, this look and the supercharged engine would go a long way towards making people think of the car as something other than an inoffensive, boring appliance.

Joining the TRD Aurion at the Toyota Stand is a TRD HiLux concept pickup. The four-door short-bed truck sports TRD graphics, a black roll bar, and a supercharged 4.0L V6. No power numbers were given. TRD only says that HiLux concept's engine is good for "substantially more" than the 234 horses the standard HiLux produces. If we had to guess, we'd say that our friends in Oz can look for the "concept" part of the HiLux's name to be dropped in the future.

[Source: Toyota]

Gallery: TRD Aurion


Gallery: TRD HiLux Concept

Continue reading Melbourne: Toyota shows off TRD versions of Aurion sedan and HiLux pickup

Melbourne: Toyota shows off TRD versions of Aurion sedan and HiLux pickup originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camryhiluxmelbourne motor showMelbourneMotorShowtoyota auriontoyota hiluxToyotaAurionToyotaHiluxtrdtrd auriontrd hiluxTrdAurionTrdHiluxFri, 02 Mar 2007 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota unveils Corolla Super 2000 rally car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/toyota-unveils-corolla-super-2000-rally-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/toyota-unveils-corolla-super-2000-rally-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/02/toyota-unveils-corolla-super-2000-rally-car/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click for high-res photo gallery

New Corolla (Australia model)Toyota has a lot going on at the Melbourne Motor Show this week. In addition to the unveilings of the TRD Aurion, TRD HiLux and the Aussie debut of the new Corolla (right), a new Super 2000-spec rally car is also on hand, resplendent in red-and-white TRD livery. 2006 Australian Rally Champion Simon Evans and rally team leader Neal Bates were on hand for the presentation of the new racer, which is powered by a 2.0 liter, 255 horsepower normally-aspirated four-cylinder that runs up to the class-mandated 8,500 rpm maximum. It weighs in at around 2500 pounds.

As is the case with other Super 2000 rally cars, electronic aids are prohibited and not present on this new Corolla, which will see its first racing action in June.

[Sources: Toyota, Rally.com.au]

Gallery: Toyota Corolla Super 2000 rally car

Continue reading Toyota unveils Corolla Super 2000 rally car

Toyota unveils Corolla Super 2000 rally car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corollamelbourne motor showMelbourneMotorShowsuper 2000Super2000trdFri, 02 Mar 2007 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[TRD/Modellista Turbo Yaris revealed at TAS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/24/trd-modellista-turbo-yaris-revealed-at-tas/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/24/trd-modellista-turbo-yaris-revealed-at-tas/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/24/trd-modellista-turbo-yaris-revealed-at-tas/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Although the Yaris hasn't piqued the interest of small car enthusiasts Stateside as much as Honda's Fit, there is a large contingent of tuners in both Japan and Europe that have turned their attention to Toyota's sub-compact three- and five-door hatch.

For the Tokyo Auto Salon, Modellista and TRD wanted to tap into that enthusiasm and teamed up to create the Modellista Concept. Based off the standard Yaris (or Vitz if you hail from the Land of the Rising Sun), the two in-house tuners strapped a turbo to the 1.5-liter engine to produce 150 HP and 144 lb.-ft. of torque.

To handle the added oomph, they equipped the Yaris with a limited slip differential, as well as a new suspension setup that drops the hatch down about 20 mm. The 17-inch OZ wheels and four-piece body kit, complete with intercooler-friendly front fascia, accentuates the new stance.

According to AutoExpress, a version of this Yaris will go on sale in Japan within the next few months, although nothing was mentioned about European or American offerings.

Make the jump for a couple more pics.

[Sources: AutoExpress, Toyota, Modellista]

Continue reading TRD/Modellista Turbo Yaris revealed at TAS

TRD/Modellista Turbo Yaris revealed at TAS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jan 2007 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fitmodellistatokyo auto salonTokyoAutoSalontoyotatoyota racing developmentToyotaRacingDevelopmenttrdvitzyarisWed, 24 Jan 2007 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA: TRD Tundra Street Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/01/sema-trd-tundra-street-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/01/sema-trd-tundra-street-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/01/sema-trd-tundra-street-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



From the SEMA floor directly to you, our John Neff delivers the skinny on TRD's hotted-up version of the all-new Toyota Tundra. This truck is another smack in the face of the domestic producers. Though there are literally no aftermarket accessories on the show floor for the yet-to-be-released Tundra, Toyota wants potential buyers to know that it can be customized and will look good with a little tuner TLC. The front end's revised and cleaner than the production version and the High Impact Red paint really pops. The lower ride height and larger wheels make this a tuner special, but it's the supercharged version of the Tundra's 5.7-liter V8 that really sets it apart. The blown engine was out on display and features a roots-type supercharger from Eaton with an air-to-liquid intercooler. No word, of course, on power ratings, and you won't be able to get the TRD supercharger until Fall of '07.

(More photos after the jump)

Continue reading SEMA: TRD Tundra Street Concept

SEMA: TRD Tundra Street Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Nov 2006 15:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>trdtrd tundraTrdTundratundra street conceptTundraStreetConceptWed, 01 Nov 2006 15:09:00 EST<![CDATA[TRD begins touching up Toyota Auris with Sportivo Version]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/27/trd-begins-touching-up-toyota-auris-with-sportivo-version/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/27/trd-begins-touching-up-toyota-auris-with-sportivo-version/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/27/trd-begins-touching-up-toyota-auris-with-sportivo-version/#commentsFiled under: ,



Nihon Car managed to get its hands on some pics of a Sportivo version of Toyota's new Auris, developed by TRD. We showed you how Europeans just got their first view of the new Toyota Auris only a few days ago, and already we have what looks like a version that could possibly challenge the MAZDASPEED3 or the Golf GTI in the hot hatch segment. Not so fast though. Literally. This TRD product takes care of sprucing up the exterior of the Auris with a sporty bodykit, but the engine is stock, for now. A complete spring kit, an antiroll bar, 17" rims and exhaust ARE part of the package, however.

As we told you recently, the Auris was just unveiled as a concept only a few weeks ago at the Paris Motor Show. The production version of this C-segment hatch was unveiled in Europe earlier this week. Available as a three- or five-door hatchback, the Auris will offer a choice of five engines, two gas and three diesel. The gas versions include a 1.4 VVT-i (97 HP) and 1.6 Dual VVT-i (124 HP), while the diesels are a 1.4 D-4D (90 HP), 2.4 D-4D (126 HP) and 2.2 D-4D Clean Power (177 HP). The top oil-burner should push the Auris from 0 to 62 mph in 8.1 seconds. Lucky Europeans can shift their Auris with their choice of a 6-speed manual transmission or a MultiMode automatic transmission with paddle shifters on select models.

Rear shot after the jump.

[Source: Nihon Car]


Continue reading TRD begins touching up Toyota Auris with Sportivo Version

TRD begins touching up Toyota Auris with Sportivo Version originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Oct 2006 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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