Tag: Toyota

JAPAN: Toyota Corporation on November 16, 2022 launched all-new Prius for first time globally.

The company will launch Series Parallel Hybrid (HEV) model this winter and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) model in spring 2023.

Coming with the tagline “Just in time for the 21st century,” the Prius was first launched in 1997 as the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car. The model’s second generation introduced the Prius’ distinctive monoform silhouette for the first time and delivered even better fuel efficiency with the inclusion of an evolved Series Parallel Hybrid System (THSII).

The third generation Prius introduced a larger capacity 1.8-liter engine and more efficient hybrid system to not only enhance fuel efficiency but driving performance as well. With the fourth generation, the Prius used the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform for the first time to deliver improved environmental performance and an evolved driving experience.

The Prius has led the expansion of HEVs over the 25 years since it was first launched as a new-generation eco-car with outstanding fuel efficiency. Total cumulative sales of the Prius worldwide have reached about 5.05 million unit, accounting for a reduction equivalent to at least about 82 million tons of CO2 emissions as of March 2022. While the hybrid system had its start with the Prius, almost every model these days, from compact cars to SUVs, minivans, and commercial vehicles, has a hybrid version cherished and enjoyed by countless customers.

While the Prius has played a leading role in driving hybrid use, the current spread of HEVs through a wide range of models means it has reached a turning point.

The development team decided to start from scratch and look at what the Prius needs to remain popular for the next 25 years. Based on a desire to renew the Prius itself and communicate the appeal of hybrid cars to an even wider audience, the Hybrid Reborn concept was created.

The automotive industry is going through a once-in-a-century transformation, with a range of new next-generation powertrain options being developed. For the Prius HEV to continue as the vehicle of choice for the coming generation, the new Prius needed more than its core strength as an environmentally friendly car. Therefore, it was developed as an exhilarating package with, stylish designs that users will fall in love with at first sight and captivating driving performance.

Following Japan, the new Prius will be launched in North America, Europe, and other countries around the world. It will also be offered in Japan through the KINTO car subscription service. Actual details of the service plan will be announced in winter this year.

Detailed information about the all-new Prius.

Inheriting the signature monoform silhouette of the original Prius, the new Prius has been reborn with even more stylish proportions through a low center of gravity and large-diameter 19-inch wheels on the second-generation TNGA platform.

The simple yet sculpted body expresses exhilaration that appeals to the senses and a universal beauty that will remain popular into the future.

The front hammerhead shark-like design achieves a high level of balance between functionality and styling, while the rear design offers rear combination taillights extending horizontally to the left and right, further accentuating the advanced design of the Prius.

The “island architecture” concept achieves a low-stress, spacious interior with a cockpit that makes it easy to concentrate on driving. Altogether, the interior offers intuitive operation and an enjoyable driving experience.

The interior comes with black tones throughout and coordinated instrument panel and seat stitching finishes. The interior achieves a balance between sportiness and a new sophistication.

The instrument panel uses Toyota’s first illuminated warning system. In addition to providing an ambient light that highlights the interior, this new Toyota Safety Sense-linked feature is incorporated into the styling. It alerts the driver to detected objects through flashing lights before the audible warnings to create a more reassuring driving experience.

A total of eight body colors are available, including two newly-developed solid base colors of Ash and Mustard that create a sporty impression. The sporty and sophisticated interior color coordination brings touches of color to the daily lives of customers.

Next-generation hybrid system achieves good fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience in a car that reacts as expected

The new Prius comes with Toyota’s first 2.0-liter Plug-in Hybrid System to deliver acceleration and quietness that are dramatically improved from the previous model. The combination of a high-efficiency Dynamic Force Engine and lithium-ion batteries for high output drive achieve maximum system output of as much as 164 kW (223 PS) while maintaining the same level of fuel efficiency as the previous model. This version has outstanding dynamic performance with the powerful acceleration of a PHEV, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.

EV driving range is about 50% higher than the previous model. This means that, with improved battery performance, the new Prius can operate on EV mode alone for most daily drives. It also comes with a “My Room Mode” that lets users enjoy air conditioning and audio systems from the external power source by turning the power switch on during charging, making the interior space even more comfortable.

With the PHEV, the battery pack is located under the rear seat instead of in the cargo area, giving the new Prius a lower center of gravity and increased cargo capacity. Together, these features deliver a balance between sporty driving performance and improved ease of use.

This version of the new Prius employs the latest Series Parallel Hybrid System. It offers satisfying acceleration and responsive driving in a car that reacts as expected while maintaining the same level of fuel efficiency as the previous model. Maximum system output is 144 kW (193 PS) for the 2.0-liter version, which is 1.6 times higher than the previous model, achieving an appropriate dynamic performance for the sporty new Prius.

This version comes with the latest E-Four system. Employing a high-output motor and other features, it offers improved uphill performance on low-friction road surfaces, like snow-covered roads, and greater stability when turning.

The second-generation TNGA platform was developed as an ongoing improvement of the matured TNGA platform to achieve the exhilarating styling and driving performance of the new Prius, allowing for a lower center of gravity and large-diameter tires.

Additional reinforcement throughout the body has increased rigidity and improved quietness. Using MacPherson struts at the front and a double wishbone setup at the rear, the suspension system provides stability for straight-line driving, responsiveness that meets driver intentions in corners, and easy line-tracing ability. Combined with the latest powertrains, it delivers a captivating driving performance.

Toyota Safety Sense, the latest active safety package with advanced and improved functions, is standard on all new Prius grades. The range of detectable objects has been expanded even further, enabling enjoyable driving with peace of mind.

The new Prius comes with Advanced Park (with remote function), an advanced driving support system. It enables easy automatic parking and exiting from parking spaces in a variety of parking situations, and with operation outside the car via a dedicated smartphone app, the car can also enter and exit parking spaces remotely.

The new Prius is equipped with a Toyota Safety Sense monocular camera at the front, a rear-facing camera for the Digital Inner Mirror, and an in-vehicle drive recorder. This setup has a clean appearance without a sense of the cameras and wires being retrofitted. The data is stored on the ECU to avoid data corruption and other issues associated with SD cards and properly manage important camera data.

This model is equipped with two 100 VAC / 1,500 W accessory power outlets; one at the back of the center console and one in the cargo space. Users can select the BEV external power supply mode, which uses power from the battery only without having to start the engine, or the HEV external power supply mode, which recharges the battery from the engine if the remaining power is too low. It also comes with an external electric power supply attachment as standard so that external power supply is possible with the door windows closed to prevent rain and insects from getting in the car when in use.

The new Prius also comes with a panoramic view moonroof which can be fully opened to create a sense of freedom within the cabin. PHEV models are equipped with a second-generation solar charging system that achieves a more efficient conversion of solar energy into electricity. This generates power equivalent to driving up to 1,250 km per year. Electric power generated while parked is used to charge the drive battery, with the system not only supplying electricity for driving but for air conditioning and other functions as well. Electric power generated during driving is used to supplement the auxiliary battery system.

JAPAN: Toyota Motor Corporation today announced to hold world premiere of the all-new Prius on November 16, 2022.

Previously Toyota launched All-New Crown on July 15, 2022. In designing the new Crown, the development team thoroughly reexamined what “Crown” is, and as a result of their pursuit of a “Crown for a new era,” they have created four completely new models.

In addition to the Crossover type, a new style that combines a sedan and an SUV, the Sport offers a sporty driving experience with an enticing atmosphere and an easy-to-drive package.

The Sedan is a new formal design that meets the needs of chauffeurs, and the Estate is a functional SUV with a mature atmosphere and ample driving space.

Toyota on August 23, 2022 launched Sienta minivan that combines the convenience of a minivan, with a spacious cabin and seating for seven passengers, into a compact body size.

JAPAN: Toyota Motor Corporation on Tuesday announced the launch of the new redesigned Sienta minivan.

The Sienta was launched in September 2003 as a vehicle that combines the convenience of a minivan, with a spacious cabin and seating for seven passengers, into a compact body size.

Each generation of the Sienta has provided solid support for family life by remaining consistently close to Japanese families and carrying a deep understanding of changing customer values from the very first generation. This consideration in design has earned driver loyalty and passenger admiration.

READ MORE: Toyota Motors suspends production at Tsutsumi plant

The press release issued by Toyota on August 23, 2022 stated that the development team once again considered customer feedback and tried to uncover their real hopes for the Sienta in developing this new model.

The conclusion they reached was preserving the vehicle’s easy-to-manage length, latest safety and security features, fuel economy, and affordable price while further refining the user-friendly cabin space preserved from the first generation.

The team has ensured a cabin space that seven adults can ride in without changing the length and width, making it a better companion that matches customer lifestyles.

READ MORE: COVID-19 cases reported at Toyota work sites

The second-row seats, where most passengers sit, have been re-designed to provide more spacious rear seat space for both legroom and head clearance. In addition, the new Sienta adopts a revamped powertrain that achieves both fuel economy and driving performance through TNGA, as well as the latest safety and security features in support of family drives.

The consideration that has been added to the new Sienta will bring smiles to the faces of the whole family.

Details of the new third-generation Sienta are as follows.

READ MORE: Global car manufacturers agree to introduce electric mini-commercial vans

Vehicle details

A practical design for easy use in a variety of situations

An exterior design that provides a spacious cabin space and good maneuverability

Large cabin with a horizontal beltline. Large windows offer good visibility and driving ease.

Simple “Shikakumaru” circle and square design. Rounded corners create a compact appearance, and the circle and square silhouette lead to good maneuverability.

Large side protection moldings honestly convey its functionality as a tool that can be used easily.

A total of seven body colors that blend into everyday life with the Sienta. Colors include Urban Khaki and a vivid Scarlet Metallic. In addition, Scarlet Metallic and Grayish Blue two-toned colors that match the dark gray roof color are also available.

Interior design that expands the fun of use and creates a comfortable cabin space

Simple “Shikakumaru” circle and square design. A design that evokes a sense of attachment has been pursued, with iconic, simple, and unified door pockets, cup holders, and registers.

Pictograms to suggest items that fit into the storage spaces in a fun way.

A thin, light, and horizontally arranged instrument panel made of fabric. Seamless connections from the front edge of the upper section to the left and right door belt lines support a sense of interior roominess and make it easy to judge the size

Three interior colors for a comfortable cabin. Color schemes include the bright Fromage and calm and relaxing Black. An easy-to-love Khaki is an available option as part of the Fan Tool Package.

User-friendly cabin space filled with innovations

Cabin height was increased by 20 mm from previous models while maintaining an easy-to-manage length and maneuverability. In addition, a low horizontal belt line and upright side glass design create a spacious and open interior

UV-block and IR-block functions are available as Comfort Package options for all windows around the cabin space, blocking IR and UV rays for a more comfortable space

A maximum of 1,000 mm, or +80 mm compared to previous models, of class-leading front/rear couple distance has been achieved to improve second-row comfort. Shopping baskets can be conveniently placed under seats for everyday shopping.

A ceiling air circulator has been installed for rear-seat comfort to efficiently circulate warm/cold air from the air conditioning unit to the rear seats, which eliminates the temperature difference between the front and rear seats

Sunshades for rear seats have been installed on sliding doors

While maintaining the popular low 330 mm floor height and stepless flat floor, the power sliding door opening height has been expanded to 1,200 mm, +60 mm compared to previous models, to make it easier to get in and out of rear seats. All family members, from children to the elderly, can easily get in and out of the vehicle.

Equipped with hands-free dual power sliding doors. This enables users carrying the key to automatically open and close the sliding doors simply by placing their feet under the sensors at the bottom of the front doors. This is a very convenient feature when both hands.

The rear hatch door opening height has been increased by 15 mm compared to previous models. Luggage space height has also been increased by 20 mm compared to previous models, allowing for smoother loading and unloading. A bicycle with 27-inch tires can be loaded without the handlebars getting stuck in the opening, so, for example, parents can pick up their children with bicycles after cram school in a sudden rain storm.

In addition to the floor luggage space, the two-row five-seater model has expanded luggage space height by 50 mm compared to previous models, which was achieved by changing the tilt-down structure of the second-row seats to lower the height of the back of the seats when folded. The flat, large-capacity luggage space is ideal for active situations such as outdoor activities where a large amount of cargo is loaded.

Other innovations

Sienta has fabric seat covers with deodorizing and water/oil-repellent treatment for more convenience and easier cleaning up after food or drink spills. Enhanced storage space full of ideas for ease of use.

Armrest hook on the driver’s seat for hanging shopping bags, etc.

Two driver’s seat-back smartphone pockets (with two USB-C ports for charging), etc.

Advanced features for a safe, secure, comfortable, and convenient drive

Toyota Safety Sense

Toyota Safety Sense, the latest active safety package with advanced and improved functionality, is equipped as standard on all models. The range of accidents that can be responded to has been expanded to support safe driving further.

Pre-collision Safety System
This system expands the detection range, adding motorcyclists (daytime), pedestrians, and cyclists to help avoid collisions or reduce damage. It provides additional support at intersections where accidents more frequently occur.

Proactive Driving Assist
This system subtly assists drivers when driving on ordinary roads and in other situations. It supports avoidance steering and deceleration to avoid getting too close to pedestrians, cyclists, and parked vehicles by anticipating risks according to the driving situation, such as pedestrians crossing the road or vehicles that may suddenly start moving.

The new Sienta comes equipped with Advanced Park, a driving support technology function within Toyota Teammate. Besides support of all operations―steering, acceleration, braking, and gear changes―the bird’s-eye view display also shows the ideal steering wheel positions for a safe and secure parking experience. This system expands support in parallel parking situations. In addition to backing in/forward exit from parking situations, it also supports forward entry/backing exit parking situations for improved ease of use when parking.

Software Update

Software updates enable the vehicle to always have the latest software version via wireless communication or a dealer’s wired connection. While also adding new functions that become available after vehicle purchase, the updates can enhance vehicle performance. Installation of the latest driver-assistance technologies can help the vehicle evolve in terms of greater safety and peace of mind.

Comprehensive T-Connect optional services

Equipped with Connected Navigation-compatible Display Audio system, enabling destination searches and route settings using new center-acquired data, including maps, facilities, and traffic congestion. A voice-recognition service (agent) can also set destinations in the system.

These new models also come with their own in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot, a first for Toyota. The DCM included as standard on all these models enables unlimited data transfer for smartphones, game devices, and other devices connected to the internet.

Other enhanced equipment for a safe, secure, comfortable, and convenient drive

Equipped with front and rear dash cams. Video captured by the Toyota Safety Sense’s monocular camera and the newly added rear-facing camera while driving is recorded to built-in memory. For portability, video data can be played back on the Display Audio system or transferred to a smartphone or USB memory device.

Equipped with an AC100 V/1,500 W accessory power outlet. This not only allows the use of electrical products using the same electrical outlets found in the home but also enables the vehicle to be used as a power generator during blackouts and other times of emergency.

Earth-friendly and exceptional basic functions

Body and suspension

The platform that forms the vehicle’s basic structure was newly designed based on the TNGA (GA-B) platform. The main structure is joined to form a ring-shaped frame, improving joint rigidity. The highly rigid body is light and well-balanced to deliver high-quality riding comfort and outstanding handling stability.

Handling stability, ride comfort, and quietness have been improved by using a high-damping type of structural adhesive for the vehicle’s main structure and a portion of the mastic sealer used for the roof panel.

Front and rear suspension geometry has been optimized to produce a rigid body. With MacPherson struts at the front and torsion beam at the rear, a suspension system that creates gentle movement and a smooth ride with excellent road holding has been achieved.

The minimum turning radius is just 5.0 m, facilitating smooth maneuvers on narrow roads and in car parks.

The 1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (M20A-FKS) for the hybrid system improves system efficiency and achieves outstanding fuel efficiency.Class-leading fuel efficiency of 28.8 km/liter under the WLTC test cycle

The E-Four system has been used, improving peace of mind for starting on hills in the snow or rain.

1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (M15A-FKS) + Direct Shift-CVT

The combination of a 1.5-liter Dynamic Force Engine (M15A-FKS) and Direct Shift-CVT achieves a powerful direct drive system with outstanding fuel efficiency.

As a gasoline-powered vehicle as well, class-leading fuel efficiency of 18.3 km/liter under the WLTC test cycle.

Direct Shift-CVT comes with 10-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic for fun shift changes with the feeling of a manual.

A wide variety of dealer-installed options that allow the vehicle to be customized to suit various customer lifestyles.

The vehicle can be customized to the customer’s specifications by combining a wide variety of dealer-installed options, supporting each customer’s vehicle needs as a companion that accompanies each new life stage.