Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2014 Lexus IS gets TRD bits]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-lexus-is-gets-trd-bits/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-lexus-is-gets-trd-bits/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-lexus-is-gets-trd-bits/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Toyota Racing Development (TRD) in Japan has designed cosmetic and performance bits that give the 2014 Lexus IS a front-to-back workover. Different from the F-Sport parts we expect from Lexus here, the full body kit runs 437,700 yen ($4,285 US) and starts with air deflectors at the lower edges of the front bumper, through to side skirts, a decklid spoiler and a rear bumper with a diffuser and quad exhaust tips.

For 288,750 yen ($2,830) you can sharpen responses with new shocks, springs, dampers, sway bar and bracing. The priciest individual component is the set of 19-inch wheels, four of them going for 527,625 yen (5,170 US). There's no word on US importation or pricing yet, but done up all in black like the IS above, we wouldn't mind seeing it here.

2014 Lexus IS gets TRD bits originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 lexus isaftermarketlexuslexus istoyota racing developmenttrdMon, 20 May 2013 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575040/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/2014-lexus-is-gets-trd-bits/20575040/article-detail.xml 20575040 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-lexus-is-trd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-lexus-is-trd.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport - front three-quarter view

"Oh yeah, Toyota still makes the Tacoma." Admit it, that's what you just said to yourself. It's a perfectly natural reaction, but the Tacoma has been quietly anchoring its segment for years, outselling every other compact pickup without making too much of a fuss. Toyota hasn't neglected the Tacoma - it was updated in 2012 with a revised nose and interior as the most noteable changes.

In a world awash with high-value fullsize pickups all vying for your attention, the Tacoma still charms more than a few buyers out of their cash. I hooked a Tacoma for a week to see whether it still has enough to recommend it.

Driving Notes
  • The size of the Tacoma is nice. While fullsize trucks can feel a bit like the automotive equivalent of relaxed-fit jeans, the Tacoma does the Goldilocks "just right" thing for my purposes.
  • Yet the cozy cockpit of the Access Cab I drove can become uncomfortably tight if you've got adults using the jumpseats regularly. If you travel in a pack, get the Double Cab. That goes double if you've got kids still in child seats, it's the better choice.
  • You have to be really committed to buying a compact pickup to ignore the extra value that goes along with the usually useful size available in the hyper-competitive fullsize class. The Tacoma starts at $21,260 with a four-cylinder engine, but the one I drove was a V6 4x4 with an automatic and the $4,035 TRD Sport Extra Value Package, not to mention a few other options to drive the price up to $32,791.
  • You do get a pretty heavily loaded Tacoma for your money, though. To compare, a Ford F-150 STX SuperCab 4x4 rings in at $32,145, but doesn't come with the navigation, hitch, cargo-management features in the bed, running boards and TRD Sport package goodies like foglights, hood scoop, TRD graphics, alloy wheels and specially tuned suspension of the similarly priced Tacoma.
  • Still, the 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic combo is just as thirsty here as a larger truck would be, returning only 18 mpg in my hands.
  • Despite its big V6, the Tacoma feels sluggish, too. The 4.0 V6 in the Nissan Frontier feels a lot more eager.
  • The interior was updated for 2012 too, getting water-resistant seat fabric with the TRD Sport package, along with black center console and door trim. It's hard plastic and shows scuffs easily, but it otherwise looks nice, and it's not like the rest of the class is any better.
  • The classic Toyota small-pickup traits remain. You sit low to the floor with your legs splayed out a bit, just like you always have, and the steering is tight and direct. Keep your boot out of it, and the V6 and five-speed auto are smooth operators, too.

2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota tacoma2013 toyota tacoma trd sportquick spinquickspintoyotatoyota tacomatrdTue, 16 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20507440/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/20507440/article-detail.xml 20507440 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyotatacoma006-1363491845_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyotatacoma006-1363491845.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 gets TRD treatment in UK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/toyota-gt86-gets-trd-treatment-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/toyota-gt86-gets-trd-treatment-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/08/toyota-gt86-gets-trd-treatment-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As dearly as we love the Toyota GT86 / Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ franchise, we readily admit we wouldn't look sideways at a model with a bit more firepower. And while that's not quite on the table yet, Toyota has been busy amping up the visual firepower of its rear-drive coupe with a whole host of TRD parts. To this point, that's been a largely à la carte affair, but the automaker's UK outpost has just announced a special-edition model that allows our British friends to pick up the whole shooting match all in one go.

The Toyota GT86 TRD will only be available in black and white, and just 250 examples are to be built. As you can see from the excellent gallery above, the catalog of look-faster bits include a more aggressive front air dam, side skirts, rear bumper fascia, spoiler and unique 18-inch forged alloys. Additional flourishes include a TRD shift lever and branded radiator cap. The sole concession to actual performance? A "fast-response quad exhaust" that might only improve things audibly - 0-62 mph is apparently unchanged at 7.7 seconds, and the top end is still 140 mph for the manual transmission model. (The auto gets by with 8.4 seconds and 130 mph).

Pricing? Glad you asked. £31,495 for GT 86 TRD manual, £32,995 for the automatic - that's nearly $50,000 US for the tripedalist and just over for the automatic. (Those are heady prices, but bear in mind that UK MSRPs and taxes are generally significantly higher than their US counterparts). If the standard GT86 is more your speed, it still rings up at a more affordable £24,995 - roughly $39,500 - leaving plenty of budget for actual performance parts. No word yet on North American availability of a special TRD model, but we've got a call in...

Continue reading Toyota GT86 gets TRD treatment in UK

Toyota GT86 gets TRD treatment in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Feb 2013 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota gt 86fr-sgt 86gt86gt86 trdsciontoyotatoyota racing developmenttrdFri, 08 Feb 2013 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20454285/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/08/toyota-gt86-gets-trd-treatment-in-uk/20454285/article-detail.xml 20454285 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/05-2013-toyota-gt86-trd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/05-2013-toyota-gt86-trd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Scion FR-S may be getting supercharger kit from TRD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Scion FR-S was just named the Hottest Sport Compact at the 2012 SEMA Show, and Toyota Racing Development (TRD) is apparently looking to make this car a little hotter. According to Car and Driver, TRD is close to coming up with a supercharger to fit to the car's 2.0-liter flat-four engine in order to squeeze out a little more performance. Currently, the FR-S produces 200 horsepower, but there's no guessing how much a supercharger could improve this figure.

With Subaru seemingly hard at work on a new turbo engine for the BRZ and even possibly a BRZ STI model, it is only logical for a force-fed FR-S to be in the works as well. Surprisingly, though, the report says that supercharger would be unique to the FR-S, but since the Scion and Subaru BRZ are mechanically identical, it isn't clear how this would be accomplished. TRD already offers plenty of upgrades for the FR-S such as exhaust, brake and suspension kits, and it offers a handful of superchargers for other models including the 5.7-liter V8 used in the Toyota Tundra and the 4.0-liter V6 used in the Tacoma.

Scion FR-S may be getting supercharger kit from TRD originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Nov 2012 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-sfr-sfr-s superchargersciontrdtrd superchargerMon, 05 Nov 2012 09:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20369083/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/05/scion-fr-s-may-be-getting-supercharger-kit-from-trd/20369083/article-detail.xml 20369083 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-scion-fr-s-2d_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2013-scion-fr-s-2d.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Shows three tuner Avalons in Sin City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/toyota-avalon-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/toyota-avalon-sema-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/toyota-avalon-sema-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Who knew the Toyota Avalon could be so... sporty? SEMA isn't just about tuning no-brainers like the Ford Mustang and Scion FR-S, it's about showing what's possible for a wide variety of cars, even seemingly geriatric machines like the big Avalon.

But remember, Toyota is seriously considering a sportier version of its Avalon flagship - we first brought you this news earlier in the year. And while these SEMA concepts aren't intended for production, nobody is ruling out that something very similar might make it to showrooms in the near future.

The stealth Avalon you see above is the DUB Edition, rolling on 22-inch matte black wheels and featuring a completely de-chromed exterior with blacked-out elements. The DUB Avalon doesn't offer any tweaks to the 3.5-liter V6, but behind that tinted glass is a totally black interior with suede accents on the seats and many of the touchable surfaces.

Moving on, Toyota has brought a TRD Edition Avalon that uses plenty of parts from the company's in-house tuning catalog, and showing that even hybrids can be sporty, the Avalon HV gets a meaner, sleeker look. Have a look at all three in the attached galleries.

Toyota Shows three tuner Avalons in Sin City originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota avalonavalondubsemasema 2012toyotatrdThu, 01 Nov 2012 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20368337/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/01/toyota-avalon-sema-2012/20368337/article-detail.xml 20368337 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/002-toyota-avalon-dub-edition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/002-toyota-avalon-dub-edition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota shows more SEMA stuff, including sportier Avalons that may preview production model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/toyota-shows-more-sema-stuff-including-sportier-avalons-that-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/toyota-shows-more-sema-stuff-including-sportier-avalons-that-ma/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/26/toyota-shows-more-sema-stuff-including-sportier-avalons-that-ma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



While most of its competitors have already showed off scores of concept cars headed to the 2012 SEMA Show, all we've seen from Toyota so far is the Sequoia Family Dragster. With less than a week to go until the show, Toyota has let its floodgates open showing off three concepts using the redesigned Avalon, a TRD version of the FJ Cruiser and a mean-looking, off-road Tundra.

Showing off its much shapelier new design, the 2013 Avalon will have no fewer than three show cars on display including a sporty TRD model, a tricked-out DUB edition and even a flashy version of the Avalon Hybrid. The car should look right at home at the Vegas show - it has been stripped off all its chrome and given a sinister-looking black paint job including matte black 22-inch wheels. Between these wheels and the lowered suspension, the DUB Avalon has what appears to be mere millimeters of clearance for that perfect slammed show-car stance. The hybrid Avalon HV Edition (shown above) is meant to show that hybrid vehicles don't have to look boring, while the TRD Edition ups the Avalon's performance with a supercharger to go with upgraded brakes, suspension and styling.

As you may remember, back in late August, Autoblog broke the news that Toyota is seriously considering a sporty Avalon. At the time, our company sources told us that the SEMA showcars could serve as an indicator of where Toyota may be heading with a production performance Avalon, so be sure to take a closer look.

Speaking of TRD, Toyota has used the same recipe for its TRD TX Baja Series Limited Edition and applied it to the FJ Cruiser. The result is the FJ-S Cruiser which uses some of the same equipment as the Tacoma such as the Bilstein race shocks, cat-back exhaust and beadlock wheels. The FJ-S also drops a TRD supercharger onto the V6 engine, improving output to 345 horsepower and 340 pound-feet of torque.

On the opposite extreme as the Sequoia Family Dragster, the Ultimate Fishing Tundra is a jacked-up off-road behemoth designed by pro angler Britt Myers. Starting off with a 12-inch lift and 38-inch mud tires, the Tundra CrewMax should be quite imposing in person, and inside, the interior has been customized with a massive video monitor and even bucket seats for the rear passengers. This truck has been designed to be the ultimate tackle box, with a slide-out storage system for all the gear an angler needs... including a refrigerator for cold beverages.

Continue reading Toyota shows more SEMA stuff, including sportier Avalons that may preview production model

Toyota shows more SEMA stuff, including sportier Avalons that may preview production model originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota avalon2013 toyota fj cruiser2013 toyota tundraavalondub editionfishingfj cruisermitt byerssemasema 2012sema show 2012toyotatrdtundraFri, 26 Oct 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20361462/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/26/toyota-shows-more-sema-stuff-including-sportier-avalons-that-ma/20361462/article-detail.xml 20361462 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-avalon-sema-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/toyota-avalon-sema-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 TRD boasts added performance gear, industry-first door stabilizer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota GT86 TRD at 2013 Paris Motor Show

We haven't stopped swooning over the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins and their corner-carving magic. For those overseas who enjoy the rear-drive coupe under the Toyota name as the GT86, things just got a little corner-carve-ier. This GT86 TRD is everyone's favorite rear-drive, boxer-engined Toyota, albeit fitted with a full selection of Toyota Racing Development parts.

The GT86 TRD gets a more aggressive air dam, side skirts, rear diffuser and a trunk lid spoiler. There are also stainless steel rear diffusers and buyers can choose from two different sets of 18-inch TRD aluminum wheels.

Inside the cabin, the driver is rewarded with a center console-mounted pushbutton start and new leather-wrapped shift knob, but things get more interesting under the skin. The TRD version features added stabilizers and an adjustable shock absorber and spring set. Other TRD kit includes front and rear monoblock brake calipers, upgraded brake lines and a high response muffler.

Of particular note is the TRD Door Stabilizer. It employs a spacer that automatically fills the strike gap in the door when closed, which Toyota says improves torsional rigidity. This feature is claimed to be an industry first, and we're curious to know if it provides a noticeable improvement in stiffness.

The GT86 TRD showcar is fully packed with all this gear, but it's also being used to promote the TRD performance line, which allows GT86 buyers to pick up any of these parts individually throughout Europe. Given the accessory-happy lineup currently over at Scion, it'll be interesting to see if the full catalog of TRD performance line parts makes its way into the FR-S brochure. For now, check out our photos of the more aggressive GT86.

Continue reading Toyota GT86 TRD boasts added performance gear, industry-first door stabilizer

Toyota GT86 TRD boasts added performance gear, industry-first door stabilizer originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Sep 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s2013 toyota gt86accessoriesfr-sgt 86gt86parisparis 2012paris motor showsciontoyotatoyota racing developmenttrdThu, 27 Sep 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20334879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/27/toyota-gt86-gt-86-trd-paris-2012/20334879/article-detail.xml 20334879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/toyota-gt86-trd-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/toyota-gt86-trd-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota seriously considering sporty Avalon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/31/toyota-seriously-considering-sporty-avalon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/31/toyota-seriously-considering-sporty-avalon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/31/toyota-seriously-considering-sporty-avalon/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Toyota Avalon

Like its Cressida ancestor, Toyota's Avalon has long focused on easy living comfort and value over sex appeal. Conservative sheetmetal, a cushy ride, space to spread out and general ease-of-use have historically made the brand's largest sedan popular among the elderly. But the new 2013 Avalon brings with it markedly more expressive styling that suggests Toyota is no longer content to cater to the end-of-life demographic. This shift away from a more traditional value set to edgier design and content is one the entire large non-premium sedan segment seems to be embracing - witness the newly upscale 2014 Chevrolet Impala, as well as the sculpted flanks of the 2012 Hyundai Azera and Ford Taurus.

The 2013 model's noticeably svelter sheetmetal, with its bolder front end and flowing greenhouse announce Toyota's intent, but it's features like a Sport mode and paddle shifters that really telegraph the Avalon's newfound vigor and more aspirational mission. And Toyota officials tell Autoblog that the already-shown V6 and hybrid models are just the beginning - a stand-alone sport model is also under serious consideration.

A trio of Avalon concepts is headed to SEMA this October, with two of them having been completed internally - unusual for Toyota.

According to Randy Stephens, the model's chief engineer, a trio of Avalon concepts is headed to SEMA this October, with two of them having been completed internally - unusual for Toyota. The pair of concepts conceived in-house will have a performance bent, with at least one featuring an off-the-shelf supercharger from the company's TRD parts bin in Australia (the same forced-induction setup used in the Lotus Evora S). The house-built Avalons are said to not be as outrageously styled as most SEMA vehicles tend to be, in large measure because Toyota plans to weigh public opinion with an eye toward a production run.

When asked if a sportier production Avalon model would be similar to the current Camry model's SE trim, Stephens quickly and decisively said, "No. It has to be more real." By "more real," Stephens means that a hotter Avalon would have to actually offer augmented performance. A production supercharged model? Highly unlikely. A performance tune of the Avalon's 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 (268 horsepower, 248 pound-feet of torque) is more plausible, along with a reworked suspension and appropriate visuals. With the 2013 model's switch to electric power steering, it would also be easy to remap the wheel's turn-in and weight.

The Georgetown, Kentucky-built Avalon hits dealers this fall in both standard and hybrid flavors. If given the green light, a performance will probably take another couple of years.

Toyota seriously considering sporty Avalon originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Aug 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota avalonavalonrandy stephenssuperchargedtoyotatrdFri, 31 Aug 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20314122/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/31/toyota-seriously-considering-sporty-avalon/20314122/article-detail.xml 20314122 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013avalon001_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/2013avalon001.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 priced from $21,815* [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/2013-scion-tc-rs-8-0-priced-from-21-815-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/2013-scion-tc-rs-8-0-priced-from-21-815-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/2013-scion-tc-rs-8-0-priced-from-21-815-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Scion tC Release Series 8.0
Scion let loose with details about its eighth Release Series vehicle today. The 2013 Scion tC Release Series 8.0 will start at $21,815 plus $730 for destination charges for the six-speed manual version, with the auto tranny costing an extra $1,050.

That $3,240 premium over the base 2013 tC gets you one of just 2,000 RS 8.0 vehicles, sprayed in Absolutely Red. Special equipment includes gloss black side mirrors, black alloy wheels and a full body kit including spoiler, developed with Five Axis Design. Lowering springs and a center-outlet exhaust system from Toyota Racing Development give the car some much-needed mechanical upgrades, while automatic-equipped models also get steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Inside the car, red contrasting stitching on the seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel and an individual number badge will show your passengers that you're the utmost Scion connoisseur. Well, except perhaps for those who bought the tC Release Series 7.0, or the Release Series 6.0, or the 5.0, or 4.0...

Scroll down to read the full release and watch some video introducing the car.

Continue reading 2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 priced from $21,815* [w/video]

2013 Scion tC RS 8.0 priced from $21,815* [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion tc2013 scion tc release series 8.0release series 8.0rs 8.0sciontctc release series 8.0tc rs 8.0trdTue, 10 Jul 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20275025/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/10/2013-scion-tc-rs-8-0-priced-from-21-815-w-video/20275025/article-detail.xml 20275025 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-scion-tc-rs-8-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-scion-tc-rs-8-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda drive the new NASCAR Camry]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/28/watch-toyota-ceo-akio-toyoda-drive-the-new-nascar-camry/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/28/watch-toyota-ceo-akio-toyoda-drive-the-new-nascar-camry/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/28/watch-toyota-ceo-akio-toyoda-drive-the-new-nascar-camry/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Akio Toyoda drives 2013 NASCAR Camry

When Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda wanted to give his company's 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Camry a shakedown run, Kyle Busch was chosen to ride shotgun. Even though Busch has won 85 races driving Toyotas in three NASCAR series, it was Toyoda who took the driver's seat for a spin around Daytona International Speedway.

The redesigned Camry stocker is expected to be submitted for approval this summer, and you can watch Akio Toyoda put it through its paces in the video below.

Continue reading Watch Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda drive the new NASCAR Camry

Watch Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda drive the new NASCAR Camry originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 May 2012 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota camryakio toyodacamrykyle buschnascarsprint cuptoyotatoyota camrytoyota racing developmenttrdvideoMon, 28 May 2012 12:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/28/watch-toyota-ceo-akio-toyoda-drive-the-new-nascar-camry/20245750/article-detail.xml 20245750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/akiobuschnascar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/akiobuschnascar.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota aims to put more "stock" into stock cars with 2013 NASCAR Camry]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/toyota-aims-to-put-more-stock-into-stock-cars-with-2013-nascar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/toyota-aims-to-put-more-stock-into-stock-cars-with-2013-nascar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/toyota-aims-to-put-more-stock-into-stock-cars-with-2013-nascar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Toyota Camry NASCAR

NASCAR may have once been a form of motorsport in which only domestic automakers competed. And that's largely still the case, with one notable exception: Toyota. The Japanese automaker faced some difficulty breaking into the Good Ol' Boys racing series, but though some purists may still malign it, Toyota is in NASCAR to stay. And this is its latest car.

"Based", in design anyway, on the latest Camry, the new stock car from Toyota Racing Development is set to compete in the Sprint Cup next season, alongside the new Ford Fusion (among other competitors from Dodge and Chevy). The result of "an aggressive redesign", the new racer was developed with input from the company's Calty Design studio to look more like the road-going Camry than ever before.

Yes, it does bear a resemblance to its road-going cousin, especially in the fascia. That said, it's still a composite body over a tube frame powered by a V8 engine driving the rear wheels. In other words, this is a Camry in name only.

Of course it doesn't hurt Toyota's case that the Camry is built in America with more American components than most "domestic" vehicles, and now the stock car looks more stock, too. Keep reading below for the full press release.

Continue reading Toyota aims to put more "stock" into stock cars with 2013 NASCAR Camry

Toyota aims to put more "stock" into stock cars with 2013 NASCAR Camry originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota camrycamrynascarsprint cuptoyotatoyota camrytoyota racing developmenttrdTue, 22 May 2012 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242996/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/toyota-aims-to-put-more-stock-into-stock-cars-with-2013-nascar/20242996/article-detail.xml 20242996 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/webcamry-nascar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/webcamry-nascar.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota prices 2013 Tacoma TRD T/X Baja from $32,990*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/toyota-prices-2013-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-from-32-990/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/toyota-prices-2013-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-from-32-990/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/toyota-prices-2013-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-from-32-990/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja

Toyota's Tacoma may be getting a bit long in the tooth, but it's received a mild refresh for 2012, and a new "limited edition" package courtesy of in-house tuning arm, Toyota Racing Development. Toyota showed a preproduction TRD T/X Baja at last fall's Texas State Fair and then again at SEMA, with the real deal now poised to go on sale in May.

The Baja Series will start at $32,990, plus a delivery fee of $810. That's for a Tacoma Access Cab model with a manual transmission - the price scales up for automatic-equipped trucks and Double Cab models. The Baja Series package carries an MSRP of $5,015, but you get to subtract $650 in a "factory credit" if you order it, since the Baja's Off-Road Package is cheaper than the standard Tacoma Off-Road Package. Or to make things simpler, figure the Baja Series Tacoma is going to cost you $4,365 more than the same truck without it.

Besides the kit already included in the TRD Off-Road Package, which is required to get the Baja Series upgrades, the special Tacomas will feature BF Goodrich T/A KO tires (LT265/70R16) with bead-locking wheels, Bilstein shocks (front and rear), a TRD exhaust system, a two-inch front lift, and those snazzy Baja Series graphics.

Toyota has all the details in it's press release, which you can see if you scroll down.

Continue reading Toyota prices 2013 Tacoma TRD T/X Baja from $32,990*

Toyota prices 2013 Tacoma TRD T/X Baja from $32,990* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota tacoma TRD TX Baja Seriesbajatacomatoyotatoyota racing developmentTRDWed, 25 Apr 2012 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222932/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/25/toyota-prices-2013-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-from-32-990/20222932/article-detail.xml 20222932 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-toyota-tacoma-trd-tx-baja-series-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2012-toyota-tacoma-trd-tx-baja-series-opt.jpg <![CDATA[This is what the Toyota GT 86 sounds like with a TRD exhaust]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



One of the inevitable pleasures of owning a vehicle like the Subaru BRZ or Toyota GT 86 (better known as the Scion FR-S on this side of the globe), is the level of go-faster, look-faster and sound-faster parts served up by any number of willing companies. Whether its from a factory-backed performance group or another reputable company, bolting on a slew of goodies is one of the easiest ways to personalize your ride. Toyota Racing Development has evidently wasted no time in coming up with a few special components for the GT 86, including a free-flowing exhaust, fully adjustable suspension and a monoblock caliper kit. TRD recently slathered those parts onto a GT 86 in Japan and let a few lucky souls behind the wheel.

Fortunately for us, Carnifty was on hand with a camera to capture the vehicle in action. While the shaky-hand cam business indoors does little to convey how the coupe handles, the video does give us a good idea of what the 2.0-liter four-cylinder will sound like with an easy-breathing exhaust. Hit the jump to watch the video for yourself.

Continue reading This is what the Toyota GT 86 sounds like with a TRD exhaust

This is what the Toyota GT 86 sounds like with a TRD exhaust originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fr-sfrsgt 86scionscion fr-stoyota racing developmenttrdtrd gt86trd toyota gt 86videoTue, 27 Mar 2012 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20202038/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/this-is-what-the-toyota-gt-86-sounds-like-with-a-trd-exhaust/20202038/article-detail.xml 20202038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/trd-toyota-gt-86-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/trd-toyota-gt-86-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus IS F Circuit Club Sport Package comes into focus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/lexus-is-f-circuit-club-sport-package-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/lexus-is-f-circuit-club-sport-package-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/lexus-is-f-circuit-club-sport-package-comes-into-focus/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lexus IS F Circuit Club Sport Package

Lexus has turned its already fast IS F over to the go-fast guys at Toyota Racing Development. The finished product is the IS F Circuit Club Sport, and the sport sedan wears a wide range of aero and mechanical improvements. We've known this model was coming for some time thanks to a 2010 Tokyo Auto Salon concept and details spouted late this summer, but these photos provide our best look yet at this touring-car-like model.

Outside, engineers have fitted the IS F with a new front spoiler, rear diffuser and hood, all of which are fabricated from weight-saving carbon fiber. You may have also noticed the vehicle's sizable rear wing. A performance damper kit is also part of the package, offering buyers two separate settings that independently adjustable compression. The luxury bruiser also comes equipped with lightweight forged aluminum wheels, though magnesium rollers are also available.

Mechanically, the IS F Circuit Club Sport Package utilizes a TRD limited-slip differential as well as a TRD big brake kit. At this point, there's no word on how much the package will cost or when it will be available. We aren't even sure American buyers will be able to sink their teeth into the factory-bred racer, so stay tuned.

Lexus IS F Circuit Club Sport Package comes into focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>isis fis f circuit clubis-fisflexuslexus is flexus is f circuit club sport packagetoyota racing developmenttrdThu, 24 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20113114/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/24/lexus-is-f-circuit-club-sport-package-comes-into-focus/20113114/article-detail.xml 20113114 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-is-f-circuit-club-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/01-is-f-circuit-club-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series Limited Edition headed for dealers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/toyota-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-headed-for-dea/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/toyota-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-headed-for-dea/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/toyota-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-headed-for-dea/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series Limited Edition

Toyota has given SEMA 2011 visitors a glimpse at a pre-production version of the company's Tacoma TRD T/X Limited Edition. The newest addition to the Tacoma line is set to begin production in late spring of next year and will offer buyers a 4.0-liter V6 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic. An electronically controlled locking rear differential provides extra grip over uncertain terrain while active traction control, hill-descent control and hill-start assist control should help make things easier on the driver. The whole thing should breathe a bit easier and sound a bit better thanks to the standard TRD exhaust, too.

BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO tires are mounted on bead-lock style wheels, and 60 mm Bilstein race shocks paired with TRD springs up front help give the pickup a little more flex. The Tacoma TRD TX Limited Edition is fitted with 50 mm shocks in the rear with a remote reservoir and the front end rides two inches higher than its stablemates.

Lest we forget, there are also those rather loud bodyside graphics...

Continue reading Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series Limited Edition headed for dealers

Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series Limited Edition headed for dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota tacoma2012 toyota tacoma trd tx baja series2012 toyota tacoma trd tx limited editionsemasema 2011tacomatoyotatoyota tacomatrdWed, 02 Nov 2011 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20096071/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/02/toyota-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-headed-for-dea/20096071/article-detail.xml 20096071 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/toyota-tacoma-trd-baja-sema_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/toyota-tacoma-trd-baja-sema.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota FT-86 leaked again in TRD catalog]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/toyota-ft-86-leaked-again-in-trd-catalog/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/toyota-ft-86-leaked-again-in-trd-catalog/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/toyota-ft-86-leaked-again-in-trd-catalog/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota FT-86 TRD

Maybe there was a time when a car was unveiled and that was that. But we can't quite recall such a time. Especially not when dealing with a vehicle as hotly anticipated as the sportscar developed jointly by Toyota and Subaru. The car alternately known as the FT-86, the Scion FR-S and the Subaru BRZ has been the source of a seemingly endless run-up that's included concept cars, spy shots and more leaks than a colander. And now we have one more.

Subaru just gave us its first official glimpse of what to expect with the BRZ STI Concept that's headed for the Los Angeles Auto Show later this month, but before that, we brought you a couple of leaks from the Toyota side of things: one showing the stock version, and another dolled up with bolt-ons from the Modellista accessories catalog. Now we can add one more as images have surfaced on FT86Club.com of the FT-86 accessorized with parts from Toyota Racing Development (TRD).

We have to say we're more enthused by the standard model without the extra baubles, but this latest leak serves to further demonstrate the endless possibilities in store for customizing what is bound to become a popular model among enthusiasts.

Toyota FT-86 leaked again in TRD catalog originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ft-86ft86scionscion fr-ssubiyotatoyobarutoyotatoyota ft-86toyota racing developmenttrdtrd ft-86Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20096568/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/02/toyota-ft-86-leaked-again-in-trd-catalog/20096568/article-detail.xml 20096568 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/trd-ft86_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/trd-ft86.jpg <![CDATA[Off-road racer Rick Huseman killed in plane crash]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/off-road-racer-rick-huseman-killed-in-plane-crash/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/off-road-racer-rick-huseman-killed-in-plane-crash/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/off-road-racer-rick-huseman-killed-in-plane-crash/#commentsFiled under:

Rick Huseman

If bad news comes in threes, we don't want to know when the other shoe will drop. Shortly following the news of Indianapolis 500 champion Dan Wheldon's death yesterday comes the equally sad development that off-road racer Rick Huseman was killed when the small aircraft in which he was flying crashed near Barstow, California. Huseman, 38, was the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing Series Pro 4 Unlimited Series champion just last year.

As if the tragedy weren't enough for the Huseman family to absorb, reports indicate that Rick's brother Jeff was also killed in the crash alongside an as-yet unidentified pilot.

According to Fox affiliate WPMT, the 38-year-old Toyota driver and his brother were flying back from Las Vegas (oddly where Wheldon was killed the same day) when their Beech 33 Bonanza airplane crashed into a canyon while attempting to make an emergency landing. The crash is under investigation.

Our condolences go out to the Huseman family and friends, as we hope this is the last such bit of bad news we have to report to you for a long time.

Off-road racer Rick Huseman killed in plane crash originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beech 33 bonanzahusemanlucas oil off-road seriesoff-road racingplane crashrick husemantoyotatoyota racing developmenttrdMon, 17 Oct 2011 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20083132/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/17/off-road-racer-rick-huseman-killed-in-plane-crash/20083132/article-detail.xml 20083132 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/rickhuseman_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/rickhuseman.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota unveils Tacoma TRD T|X Baja Series Limited Edition in Texas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/toyota-unveils-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-in-tex/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/toyota-unveils-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-in-tex/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/toyota-unveils-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-in-tex/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series

Ford took everyone by surprised when it unveiled the F-150 SVT Raptor back in 2008, not only with the truck's capability but by the fact that they had the guts to produce it at all. The success of the Raptor left other automakers scrambling to produce something similar, although everything yet has fallen short in one way or another. Chrysler unveiled the Ram Runner Concept at SEMA last year, although you have to build it yourself if you want one, and GM has merely teased the idea of producing the Sierra All Terrain HD Concept shown earlier this year.

Now, Toyota is stepping up to the plate with the Tacoma TRD T|X Baja Series. Unveiled today at the Texas State Fair, this limited-edition truck takes inspiration from Toyota's Baja racing history and features items like an electronically-controlled locking differential, TRD off-road package with Bilstein race shocks and an increased ride height of two inches, BF Goodrich T/A KO tires and bead-lock style wheels. Power comes from Toyota's 4.0-liter V6 and both a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission are available.

The TRD T|X Baja Series also benefits from changes made to the standard Tacoma for 2012, including a restyled front end with a new hood, grille, front bumper and headlights. The interior gets a new instrument panel, updated gauges, new steering wheel and more. You can read full details about both the standard Tacoma and the limited edition Baja Series in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Toyota unveils Tacoma TRD T|X Baja Series Limited Edition in Texas

Toyota unveils Tacoma TRD T|X Baja Series Limited Edition in Texas originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota tacoma2012 toyota tacoma TRD TX Baja Seriestacomatexas state fairtoyotatoyota racing developmenttrdThu, 29 Sep 2011 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20069993/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/29/toyota-unveils-tacoma-trd-t-x-baja-series-limited-edition-in-tex/20069993/article-detail.xml 20069993 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/toyota-tacoma-trd-tx-baja-series_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/toyota-tacoma-trd-tx-baja-series.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept headlines TMC's Tokyo Auto Salon roster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/toyota-grmn-iq-racing-concept-headlines-tmcs-tokyo-auto-salon-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/toyota-grmn-iq-racing-concept-headlines-tmcs-tokyo-auto-salon-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/toyota-grmn-iq-racing-concept-headlines-tmcs-tokyo-auto-salon-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept
Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept - Click above for high-res image

SEMA may take the proverbial cake for the American tuner scene, but the Vegas expo isn't the only tuner show in the world. And with the Tokyo Auto Salon currently underway, Toyota has a wide variety of cars on display under various labels and divisions.

The vehicle you see above is the GRMN iQ Racing Concept. Lest you think the four letters indicate some kind of special nav system, it stands for Gazoo Racing tuned by MN - the same outfit that prepared the Nürburgring 24-winning Lexus LFA racer.

Little in the way of details were released along with the solitary image other than to say that it's based on a limited-edition model that's already sold out, and fitted with a roll cage and supercharger. It's one of seventeen vehicles prepared by the Toyota Motor Corporation and its subsidiaries for the show, including versions of the Prius, Vitz (aka Yaris), Auris, Corolla, Noah, FJ Cruiser, Ractis, Lexus CT and IS F and more, modified by Gazoo, Toyota Racing Development, G Sports and even the Fuji Speedway and a staff collective known as the Toyota Engineering Society. Read all about it in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept headlines TMC's Tokyo Auto Salon roster

Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept headlines TMC's Tokyo Auto Salon roster originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 tokyo auto salonfujifuji speedwayg sportsgazoogazoo racinggrmniQlexustestokyotokyo 2011tokyo auto salonToyotatoyota engineering societyToyota GRMN iQ Racing ConceptToyota iQtrdSun, 16 Jan 2011 19:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19802891/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/16/toyota-grmn-iq-racing-concept-headlines-tmcs-tokyo-auto-salon-r/19802891/article-detail.xml 19802891 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/web630-01141l_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/web630-01141l.jpg <![CDATA[RK Collection Toyota Camry is a little bit NASCAR and a little bit SEMA rock and roll]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/29/rk-collection-toyota-camry-is-a-little-bit-nascar-and-a-little-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/29/rk-collection-toyota-camry-is-a-little-bit-nascar-and-a-little-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/29/rk-collection-toyota-camry-is-a-little-bit-nascar-and-a-little-b/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition
RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

After showing off the Tacoma RTR Concept, we didn't think Toyota could find another way to toy with our emotions. We were wrong. Rob Kauffman, the owner of RK Collection and co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, has teamed up with Toyota Racing development to produce a street-legal, NASCAR-inspired high-performance Camry.

Those words don't seem like they should go together, but the parts list for the RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition reads like the shopping list for a potential dream car. The most important piece of that list sits under the hood: a 358 cubic inch TRD NASCAR V8 engine producing 680 horsepower, which is paired with a Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission.

It's as if Rob Kauffman was reading our dreams and then built the most exciting Camry on the planet. The RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition will be waiting for our cameras (and our hearts) at the rapidly approaching SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Hit the jump for the press release.


Gallery: RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition

RK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR EditionRK Collection Toyota Camry NASCAR Edition

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading RK Collection Toyota Camry is a little bit NASCAR and a little bit SEMA rock and roll

RK Collection Toyota Camry is a little bit NASCAR and a little bit SEMA rock and roll originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 sema shownascarnascar camryrk collectionrk collection toyota camry nascar editionRob Kauffmansemasema 2010tacomatacoma rtr concepttoyotatoyota camrytoyota camry nascar editiontoyota tacoma rtr conceptTRDFri, 29 Oct 2010 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19695632/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/29/rk-collection-toyota-camry-is-a-little-bit-nascar-and-a-little-b/19695632/article-detail.xml 19695632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/rk-nascar-camry_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/rk-nascar-camry.jpg -1 2