Report: Toyota 'Gs' performance division in the works

Be still our hearts. A Toyota post that doesn't involve a recall. Instead, we've got an unsurprising report about ToMoCo's plans to start a new, in-house performance division dubbed "Gs" sometime in 2010.

Earlier this month, Toyota trotted out three models wearing a new line of performance parts at the Tokyo Auto Salon under the "Toyota G Sports" moniker. While a bodykitted Prius isn't exactly our cup of Earl Grey and the tuned Mark X is about as interesting as a fire-breathing Camry, the (supposedly) turbocharged Toyota FT-86, fitted with a complete aero kit, suspension and brake mods kicked our salivary glands into overdrive.

Unlike the forthcoming Volkswagen R line, BMW's M division or Mercedes-Benz' AMG unit, the Gs line would be a joint collaboration between Modelista – which has been developing and supplying exterior components to the automaker – and TRD, which will handle engine, suspension and brake development with the help of Gazoo, the firm that helped to create the hybrid Mk. III MR2 for TAS.

G's will focus more on high-end components developed for the street and will likely sold as either a complete model (think Toyota FT-86 Gs) or available as separate components, similar to the Lexus F Sport line.

Whether these components or full models will make it Stateside remains to be seen, but when the FT-86 makes it to U.S. shores, we'd suspect Toyota – or more likely Scion – will offer similar equipment.

[Source: InsideLine]

2009 Smart ForTwo
Performance			Brakes/Tires/Wheels
Engine	1.0-liter inline three		Front Brakes	11-inch ventilated discs (ABS)
Configuration/Valvetrain	SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder		Rear Brakes	8-inch drums
Max Horsepower @ RPM	70 hp @ 5,800 RPM		Wheels (front)	15x4.5-inches
Max Torque @ RPM	68 lb-ft @ 4,500 RPM		Wheels (rear)	15x5.5-inches
Drive Type	Rear-wheel drive		Tires (front)	155/60 R15
Transmission	Five-speed automated manual		Tires (rear)	175/55 R15
Fuel Injection	EFI
Compression Ratio	11.4:1		Exterior Dimensions
Recommended Fuel	91 octane		Length	106.1 inches
Fuel Capacity	8.7 gallons (incl. 1.3 gal reserve)		Width	61.4 inches
EPA Fuel Economy (city/hwy)	33/41		Height	60.7 inches
0-60 mph time (MFR est.)	12.8 seconds		Wheelbase	73.5 inches
Top Speed	90 mph		Curb Weight	1,808 pounds
Suspension/Steering			Interior Dimensions
Front	MacPherson, with anti-roll bar		Maximum Seating	2
Rear	DeDion axle		Luggage Capacity	7.8 cu-ft
Steering	Rack-and-pinion		Head Room (Front/Rear)	39.7 / 0 inches
Turns Lock-to-Lock	3.4		Shoulder Room (Front/Rear)	48 / 0 inches
Turning Circle (feet)	28.7		Leg Room (Front/Rear)	41.2 / 0 inches