Toyota News - Cheers and Gears http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/ Mon, 17 Jun 2013 23:21:02 +0000 86400 Rumorpile: Toyota GT86 To Go WIth Hybrid Power? http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/rumorpile-toyota-gt86-to-go-with-hybrid-power-r1424 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
March 8, 2013
 
Only being on sale for just over a year, Toyota is already working on a mid-cycle refresh on the GT86 coupe (Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ in the states). This news comes from the chief engineer Tetsuya Tada. Tada also revealed that Toyota is considering doing a high performance model.
 
“We are already working on a mid-life facelift for the car, and we are investigating both turbocharging and supercharging too. But an electric motor assistance solution is also possible, and would bring benefits that forced induction does not,” Tada told Autocar.
 
Using a hybrid system to increase the performance in the GT86 is an interesting option. Tada explains that using a hybrid system could provide a huge boost in low-rpm torque for the engine without affecting throttle response or compromising on fuel economy or emissions. 
 
This would add weight to the coupe, but Tada said the weight could be offset somewhat by further weight loss of the vehicle.
 
“Our TRD tuning department has found it easy to take 100kg out of the kerbweight, and have developed certain underbody fins and plates that can be employed to alter the dynamic balance of the car, to increase or reduce oversteer at medium and high speeds. They have quite a pronounced effect."
 
Source: Autocar
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:41:34 +0000 15d0beeeeaa7f86a5f2c6b493c29776f <![CDATA[Toyota Reclaims World's Largest Automaker Title]]> http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/toyota-reclaims-worlds-largest-automaker-title-r1304 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
January 28, 2013
 
Toyota has regained the world's largest automaker crown for 2012. The automaker was able to bounce back in 2012 after the earthquake and tsunami rocked Japan last year and a large amount of recalls that caused them to lose the largest automaker title in 2011. 
 
Toyota and its subsidiaries delivered 9.75 million vehicles last year, ahead of General Motors which delivered 9.29 million vehicles and Volkswagen which delivered 9.09 million vehicles. Toyota sales grew worldwide by 23% in 2012, with Japan seeing the largest increase in sales of 35%. In the U.S., Toyota's market share grew to 14.9% in 2012. 
 
Toyota forecasts that will deliver 9.91 million vehicles in 2013. This is due to company forecasting continued growth in the United States and a recovery in China where Japanese automakers saw a drop in sales due to a land dispute between the two countries. Toyota also expects a weakening Yen to help out as well.
 
Source: Bloomberg
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Mon, 28 Jan 2013 16:30:41 +0000 d6c2e7c74cad027b49b4369a0548ddfb Rumorpile: Toyota Working On A Nissan Juke Competitor? http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/rumorpile-toyota-working-on-a-nissan-juke-competitor-r1302 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
January 27, 2013
 
Autocar is reporting that Toyota executives are considering building a competitor for the Nissan Juke. The inspiration for this possible contender is a twelve-year old concept.
 
The concept in question is the Toyota RSC (Rugged Sports Coupe) shown at 2001 Chicago Auto Show. While the concept was well received at the time, Toyota didn't really do anything with it.
 
Why are Toyota executives looking at RSC as a possible Juke competitor? Sales. The Nissan Juke has been doing very well in global sales. In the U.S. alone, Nissan moved 36,000 Jukes in 2012.
 
If Toyota decides to go forward with this, expect the vehicle to use either Yaris or Auris (Corolla) platform. The Yaris platform allows Toyota to build a direct competitor to the Juke, while the Auris platform lets Toyota build a somewhat larger vehicle. Using either platform allows Toyota to offer a hybrid model.
 
Source: Autocar
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Sun, 27 Jan 2013 05:44:05 +0000 793d8e745d2b346c4ddc27a534083243 Detroit Auto Show: Toyota Corolla Furia Concept http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/detroit-auto-show-toyota-corolla-furia-concept-r1268 By William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
January 14, 2013
 
The past few generations of the Toyota Corolla have played it safe. But with the introduction of the Toyota Corolla Furia concept today at the Detroit Auto Show, Toyota appears to be taking some chances. As the company said in a press release, "this exciting compact sedan concept hints at the styling cues consumers can expect to see on the next-generation Corolla."
 
The Corolla Furia Concept has a very striking front end with a sleek, low-profile upper grille that extends into LED headlights at the corners. Underneath, there is a larger grille. Other design cues to take note of are a raked windshield, sloped roofline, and pronounced fender flares.
 
Album: Toyota Corolla Furia Concept
4 images
0 comments

 
Source: Toyota
 
William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
 
Press Release is on Page 2

 
TOYOTA FURIA CONCEPT MAKES GLOBAL DEBUT AT 2013 NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 14, 2013 – Toyota revealed the Corolla Furia Concept at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This exciting compact sedan concept hints at the styling cues consumers can expect to see on the next-generation Corolla. The concept represents an exterior styling study by Toyota designers, and it builds on the brand's product development priority to develop more dramatic, expressively designed vehicles.

"The Corolla Furia Concept is an early indicator of where our compact car design may lead in the future," said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division. "It blends a heightened emphasis on dramatic design and modern elements of high technology to generate curb appeal that will surprise a lot of people."

The Furia is designed around a theme of "Iconic Dynamism," which uses pure and simple surface elements to create a confident, decisive and recognizable appearance appealing to more youthful consumers. It features a more provocative, dynamic interpretation of a compact sedan that displays a more stable, athletic stance with 19-inch allow wheels pushed to the vehicle's corners with short overhangs to help emphasize its long wheelbase.

The Corolla Furia design includes a swept windshield, with a sloped roofline and pronounced fender flares, to help communicate a sense of motion even when the car is stationary. The aggressively styled front fascia, with a blacked-out grille treatment, helps highlight a pair of sculpted front LED headlamps that combine with the rear composite LED taillight assemblies to add a sense of advanced technology to the Furia's impactful exterior. Carbon fiber accents adorn the Corolla Furia Concept's wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear valance, which includes ornate metal exhaust outlet surrounds to add a sense of modern athleticism.

Toyota Corolla Furia Concept
Overall Length 4620 mm/ 181.9 inches
Overall Width 1805 mm / 71 inches
Overall Height 1425 mm / 56.1 inches
Wheelbase 2700 mm/ 106.3 inches
Wheels 19-inch aluminum alloy]]> Mon, 14 Jan 2013 22:07:45 +0000 debe9dfcc3e4dbea1c509ffab6bf9f0b Rumorpile: Next Generation Prius To Get AWD, Top 90 MPG? http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/rumorpile-next-generation-prius-to-get-awd-top-90-mpg-r1123 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
November 15, 2012

Work on the next-generation Toyota Prius is already underway. A few weeks ago, we reported on Toyota considering a new design for the Prius. Now, we have gotten word on some mechanical changes.

Auto Express is reporting that next-gen Prius and Prius Plug-In will come equipped with a e-4WD system.

“The rear wheels will be driven by a motor in an e-4WD system. Targeting snowy areas, they will operate at up to 37mph,” a source tells the magazine.

Also in the cards for the new Prius will be a weight drop of about 154 lbs thanks to a new platform. Other changes will include a more aerodynamic body, a modified 1.8L four-cylinder, and downsized inverter and electric motor. Those changes will make the Prius quicker and possibly deliver 90 MPG.

One item that won't change are the nickel-metal hydride batteries. Toyota engineers still believe the nickel-metal hydride batteries are still the best at managing power delivery during intensive use and charging.

Source: Auto Express

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Related Stories:
Rumorpile: Toyota To Change Design Of Next Prius?]]> Thu, 15 Nov 2012 22:13:01 +0000 d5397f1497b5cdaad7253fdc92db610b Rumorpile: Toyota To Change Design Of Next Prius? http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/rumorpile-toyota-to-change-design-of-next-prius-r1100 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
November 5, 2012

There are vehicles that with a quick glance, you immediately recognize; the Porsche 911 and the Volkswagen Beetle are perfect examples of this. Another vehicle that follows this is the Toyota Prius. Since the second-generation model, the Prius has earned a place of being instantly recognizable due to its shape. Now, Toyota is pondering whether to change it or not.

“There’s an undercurrent among most people that they’re ready for a new Prius look. Maybe our architecture has been a little bit similar for the last two generations.” said Chris Hostetter, Toyota’s U.S. group vice president for strategic planning.

Hostetter told Bloomberg that the company is currently debating whether to keep the aerodynamic wedge-shape look or go towards something more dramatic. This possible change is due to Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda wanting to make the company’s cars more exciting, and make the Prius more appealing to buyers.

Source: Bloomberg

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Mon, 05 Nov 2012 04:03:43 +0000 624c54021cda44b56c92aa798ebadd9e <![CDATA[Toyota Bets on Fuel Cell Auto's]]> http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/toyota-bets-on-fuel-cell-autos-r1099 Toyota eQ (known as the Scion iQ stateside).

You will find some interesting information as Toyota moves forward with Fuel Cell's rather than pure electric auto's.
Sales of Plug in Vehicles, North America (2011 & 2012)
Type - 2011 ------ 2012 (YTD)--(Since 1/1/2011) Cumulative
HEV----268,807---322,516--------591,323
PHEV--8,272----- 25,944----------34,216
BEV----9,966----- 6,802-----------16,768

Source: Pike Research

Most BEVs skirt the edge of a 100-mile range, stretching up to the $100,000 Model S, from Tesla, which can go nearly 300 miles on a single charge. EV advocates and battery manufacturers have long insisted that a battery breakthrough on the horizon will triple battery ranges while drastically reducing battery costs. Regardless of how far the BEV can go on a full battery, however, it still takes hours to recharge instead of the minutes it takes to refill a conventional gas vehicle.

Toyota’s hydrogen vehicles can already achieve ranges and refill times comparable to conventional gas vehicles.

For more info go to:
http://fuelcellswork...ember_181315269]]> Sat, 03 Nov 2012 17:29:54 +0000 533d2891bb1b332f3845f7bfd09b78ef Rumorpile: FR-S Chief Engineer Hints At 2 More Coupes http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/rumorpile-fr-s-chief-engineer-hints-at-2-more-r1036 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
October 10, 2012

The Scion FR-S marks a return for Toyota of building a sporty RWD coupe, and it might not be the only one.

Top Gear Philippines had the chance to sit down with Tetsuya Tada, chief engineer for the FR-S and other members (Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ). Tada revealed that the FR-S was the first of three new sports cars being worked on by Toyota.

"The first is more mass-market and cheaper than the 86. And the third is more upmarket than the 86," Tada said.

When asked if the third vehicle is the successor the Supra, Tada said it could possibly be but that nothing is sure at the moment.

Source: Top Gear Philippines

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Wed, 10 Oct 2012 03:40:41 +0000 bbf37bc29caa653170cf5a578f1e7464 Toyota Revises Their Powertrain Plans http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/toyota-revises-their-powertrain-plans-r1026 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
October 3, 2012

Besides hybrid powertrains, Toyota's powertrain line has been lacking some key features that competitors are now offering. Those features include direct-injection, Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT), and turbochargers to balance performance and fuel economy.

According to Autoweek, Toyota will be adding those features to their lineup over the next few weeks. At the moment, Toyota employs direct-injection in the Scion FR-S, Lexus GS, and LS: But in the next two years, Toyota will introduce two new engines,
  • 2.5L Atkinson cycle engine for hybrids (Next Year)
  • 2.0L turbocharged (2014)
Toyota will also add direct-injection to certain number of vehicles including the Camry and Venza.

Also coming to Toyota vehicles will be more CVTs, and six- and eight-speed transmissions for its bigger cars.

Source: Autoweek

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Wed, 03 Oct 2012 04:24:15 +0000 42e499e591496cb71d9a11ae109dc962 Toyota Scraps Plan For Widespread Sales Of A Electric Minicar http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/toyota-scraps-plan-for-widespread-sales-of-a-el-r996 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
September 24, 2012

2012 was supposed to be the year that Toyota would begin selling the electric version of the iQ minicar called the eQ. When it introduced the vehicle back in 2010 expected, Toyota said it planned to sell several thousand of the vehicles per year.

"Two years later, there are many difficulties," said Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota's vice chairman and the engineer who oversees vehicle development.

Now, Toyota is planning to only sell about 100 of the eQ vehicles in the United States and Japan in an extremely limited release.

"The current capabilities of electric vehicles do not meet society's needs, whether it may be the distance the cars can run, or the costs, or how it takes a long time to charge," said Uchiyamada.

Toyota said they are putting more emphasis on hybrid technology, expecting to introduce 21 hybrid models by 2015.

Source: Reuters

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.]]> Mon, 24 Sep 2012 21:19:03 +0000 6351bf9dce654515bf1ddbd6426dfa97 <![CDATA[Toyota Talks About The New Avalon's Power]]> http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/toyota-talks-about-the-new-avalons-power-r754 William Maley
Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com
June 26, 2012

Toyota has revealed the powertrain details on the new 2013 Avalon.

As expected, the new Avalon will still use the 3.5L V6 from the previous Avalon. The V6 is rated at 268 HP and 248 lb-ft. of torque and will go through a six-speed automatic. EPA rates the V6 at 21 City/31 Highway/25 Combined.

Toyota has equipped the Avalon V6 with three different power modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) and certain models get paddle-shifters for a more “sporty” experience.

The new Avalon will also come in a hybrid model. The hybrid comes equipped with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and electric motor producing a combined 200 HP. EPA rates the Avalon Hybrid at 40 City/39 Highway/40 Combined.

The new Avalon goes on sale later this year.

William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at william.maley@cheersandgears.com or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.

Press Release is on Page 2


All-New 2013 Toyota Avalon Features Both Gasoline and Hybrid Powertrains

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 26, 2012) – When the all-new, North American designed and engineered 2013 Avalon goes on sale later this year, consumers can choose between a powerful V6 gasoline powertrain and Toyota’s proven Hybrid Synergy Drive. The efficiency offered by the new hybrid model will help the all-new premium mid-size sedan achieve excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rating of 40 mpg combined.

In addition to offering a hybrid powertrain, the new Avalon features a stunning design, improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.

Powerful, Efficient V6 Engine
The 2013 Avalon will feature a proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has been enhanced to offer more responsive and efficient performance. The all-aluminum six-cylinder engine will produce 268 horsepower and 248 lbs. ft. of torque, which will propel the new sedan to 60 mph in under seven seconds. Compared to the previous-generation Avalon, this 2013 powertrain combination offers improved fuel economy, performance, superior shift feel and response, with upgraded drivability and quietness.

This enhanced powertrain’s programming has been updated to offer ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT Modes. The ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by reducing power application at lower speeds and reducing energy consumed by the air-conditioning system. The SPORT Mode provides increased acceleration responses though altered engine control unit (ECU) programming, and it offers a more direct and responsive EPS programming to enhance steering feel.

In addition, the new transaxle is equipped with a numerically lower differential gear drive ratio (3.23), designed to help improve fuel economy. The V6-powered 2013 Avalon achieves an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (21 city/ 31 hwy).

The transmission operation has been made more efficient and responsive with the adoption of a flex-start control feature lock-up clutch. With lock-up control, the transmission’s torque converter fully engages at a lower RPM during standing starts to improve acceleration response and help suppress unnecessary engine revolutions. The new transmission is also kept at an optimal temperature with an automatic-transmission fluid warmer, helping enhance efficiency.

The multi-mode automatic transmission console shifter offers a D range and can be moved into an S-mode gate, which allows manually operated sequential shifting using the console shifter or available (Touring and Limited models) steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The gear can be selected by moving the shifter up to (+) position or lower using the (-) position to experience highly responsive shifts. By using the paddles or in S-range, the transmission uses a quick responding shift-logic that includes throttle blipping for downshifts. The gear changes and range-of-gear selections are displayed in the color multi-information display.

Avalon Adds Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive
For consumers seeking a premium mid-size sedan with excellent fuel economy ratings and an environmental message, the new Avalon features a full power-split hybrid system. Coupled with reductions in vehicle weight and improvements in aerodynamics, the Avalon Hybrid is expects to achieve impressive fuel economy ratings. The 2013 Avalon incorporates the latest advances in Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, building upon Toyota’s 14 years of hybrid-development experience. The Avalon Hybrid features a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. A power-control unit located in the engine compartment houses an inverter, a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter (raises voltage to a maximum of 650 volts) and the hybrid-drive ECU, which governs the seamless operation of electric-motor power application and regenerative braking. The power control unit relies on liquid cooling to maintain an efficient temperature.

The Avalon Hybrid achieves a total system output of 200 horsepower and offers three unique modes of operation: EV, ECO and SPORT. The Avalon Hybrid models achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg in the city, and a 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 40 mpg EPA-rating.

The 2013 Avalon Hybrid offers an EV mode that, under certain conditions, allows the vehicle to operate solely on electric propulsion. EV mode can be engaged, provided other conditions are correct, for up to one mile at speeds up to 25 mph, providing an all-electric option that is convenient in residential areas or parking garages.

The ECO drive mode engages the gasoline motor, but reduces throttle response and HVAC output to help improve overall efficiency. The SPORT Mode takes full advantage of the new Avalon’s dynamic character, improved chassis, and enhanced suspension by altering the engine’s throttle response and enhancing steering feel.

The Avalon’s hybrid’s battery pack is comprised of 204 cells and is located in the vehicle trunk behind the rear seats, while still providing ample trunk space. The scroll casing for the battery cooling system’s blower fan has been designed to produce extremely quiet and efficient airflow, helping reduce interior noise and elevating refinement. The power-control unit, located in the engine bay, houses the inverter, DC-DC converter.

The efficient hybrid transaxle in the new Avalon contains two high-output electric motor/generators, a power-split device, an open differential and the final drive ratio. Motor/Generator 1 (MG1) is used to start the gasoline engine and generate the energy that is returned to the battery to power the system. Motor/Generator 2 (MG2) is primarily responsible for electric drivetrain propulsion and regenerative braking. The hybrid vehicle transaxle also incorporates a flywheel-damper design that helps reduce noise and vibration during engine engagement.

Captivating Styling with a Spacious, Luxurious Interior Experience
The new 2013 Avalon is the product of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan’s striking exterior and luxurious interior design was conceived by a youthful, talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc., facilities in Southern California and Michigan.

The car’s engineering development was led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focus, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at the award-winning Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) facility in Georgetown, Ky.

True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon’s more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products.

Powertrain Specs


Avalon V6
Avalon Hybrid
Gasoline
Engine
Type/Displacement
2GR-FE / 3.5L
2AR-FXE / 2.5L
Max Horsepower
268 hp
154 hp
Max Torque
248 lbs.-ft.
153 lbs.-ft.
Transaxle
Type
6-speed AT
E-CVT
Electric Motor
Max Output
-
140 hp
Max Torque
-
200 ft. lbs.
Battery
Type
-
Nickel-Metal Hydride
Nominal Voltage
-
245 volts
Number of Cells
-
204 Cells
Max Output
-
34 kw or 45.6 hp

Total System Output
-
149 kw 200hp


Key Dimensional Comparison

2013 Avalon
2012 Avalon
Overall Length
195.3 in.
197.6 in.
Overall Width
72.2 in.
72.8 in.
Overall Height
57.5 in.
58.5 in.
Wheelbase
111 in.
111 in.
Front Tread
62.6 in.
62.2 in.
Rear Tread
62.2 in.
61.6 in.
Front Overhang
38.8 in.
39.4 in.
Rear Overhang
45.5 in.
47.2 in.
Curb Weight
3,497 lbs. (V6),
3594 lbs. (Hybrid XLE)
3,616 lbs.]]> Tue, 26 Jun 2012 04:04:43 +0000 231141b34c82aa95e48810a9d1b33a79 Toyota Introduces A New Development Framework To Create More Exciting Vehicles http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/toyota-introduces-a-new-development-framework-t-r595 William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 16, 2012

Two words you wouldn’t think that would go together are Toyota and excitement. But there was time when Toyota meant excitement; cars like the Celica, Supra, and MR2 cemented the brand as building some of best sports cars before hanging it up and building appliances.

However, the tide at Toyota seems to be changing. The RWD GT86/Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ coupes are beginning to roll out, and Toyota is introducing a new development and manufacturing framework designed to aid in producing more exciting vehicles.

"The feeling at the time was, 'If we build it, they will come. Instead of developing what customers would want next, we were making cars that would rake in sales," said Toyota CEO, Akio Toyoda.

The new framework, called Toyota New Global Architecture, or TNGA, allows the company to design multiple models at the same time to reduce costs. The new framework will also slash the number of executives involved in the design review process to help streamline decisions.

"Toyota's problem was that it had too many filters. When you have that many people weighing in, you end up developing cars by eliminating the negatives, not by creating something positive, by taking risks," said Tokuo Fukuichi, Toyota’s chief designer.

Added cooperation between Toyota's planning and design groups could bring forth more innovative styling, including models with lower centers of gravity and better aerodynamics.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)]]> Mon, 16 Apr 2012 03:14:21 +0000 d88518acbcc3d08d1f18da62f9bb26ec Scion FR-S Chief Engineer Says A Convertible Could Be Done http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/scion-fr-s-chief-engineer-says-a-convertible-co-r441 William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
March 1, 2012

Tetsuya Tada, the chief engineer of the Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S said something very interesting to Germany's Autobild magazine.

"The GT 86 was designed from the outset that we can build it as a convertible," said Tada.

So what does that mean? We could be seeing a convertible version of Scion FR-S within a few years, most likely retaining the 2.0L boxer-four with 197 HP.

Source: Autobild]]> Thu, 01 Mar 2012 19:20:37 +0000 b197ffdef2ddc3308584dce7afa3661b Rumorpile: Next Toyota Avalon To Become A Hybrid http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/rumorpile-next-toyota-avalon-to-become-a-hybrid-r265 William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
January 15, 2012

Riddle me this Batman; what future car is Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager, Bob Carter talking about.

Will have “more room than a BMW X5, be faster than a (Volkswagen) TDI and have higher mpg than a Fiat 500.”

The answer, well it could be one of two things; a new model Toyota is working on or  the new Avalon. What? The Avalon? Yes, and here’s how. To have more room than a BMW X5, the vehicle would need an interior volume greater than 102.4-cubic feet. To beat a Volkswagen TDI, the vehicle would need to produce more than 140 HP and 235 lb-ft of torque. To best a Fiat 500 in mileage, the vehicle would need to best 30 MPG City and 38 MPG Highway.

Using some process of elimination, we can eliminate the Prius v and new Prius c. We can also eliminate the NS4 concept and the recently updated Camry Hybrid. The final clue leading us to the Avalon is Carter stating the vehicle have “lavish features rarely found in near-luxury vehicles.”

Whether this process of elimination pans out or not, we’ll likely see this model sometime in 2012.

Source: Ward’s Auto via Autoguide]]> Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:24:07 +0000 0ce2ffd21fc958d9ef0ee9ba5336e357 Is Toyota Working On A Hotter GT 86? http://www.cheersandgears.com/_/toyota-news/is-toyota-working-on-a-hotter-gt-86-r108
Tada told Autocar that test versions of a hotter GT 86 using superchargers have already been made and are currently being “evaluated” by Toyota Racing Development. Tada said the reason why they’re evaluating superchargers due to the simplicity of it than enlarging the engine and provides better response than adding a turbo.

Tada also said TRD is looking at suspension modifcations to handle the extra power.

Source: Autocar]]> Sun, 04 Dec 2011 17:47:30 +0000 b9d487a30398d42ecff55c228ed5652b