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TOYOTA TACOMA Reviews

2011-02-28T16:37:00.000-08:00

The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pick up that offers a comfortable cab, a refined ride, responsive handling, proven off-road capability, and quality construction.Toyota Tacoma is available in Regular Cab, Access Cab (extended cab) and Double Cab (crew cab) body styles, in either two or four wheel drive. Regular and Access Cabs come with six-foot beds; Double Cabs have the choice of a shorter five-foot bed or a standard-size six-footer.

The base engine is a 2.7-liter, 159-hp inline-four mated to a five-speed manual transmission; a four-speed automatic is optional. A 236-hp 4.0-liter V6 is standard on all Double Cabs and optional on 4WD Access Cabs. The V6 is paired with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic. Standard safety features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, side-impact/side curtain airbags, and active headrests.

The 2010 Toyota Tacoma is a carryover from 2009.

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REVIEWS

The Toyota Tacoma is arguably the best truck in a field of solid midsize pickups. It's certainly the most popular: The Tacoma dominates the market for midsize pickups. It comes in a wide range of configurations to please a wide range of buyers. ... Read Full Review

TOYOTA Prius Review

2011-02-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

The Toyota Prius sedan has a different way for getting you from point A to point B: This 'hybrid' vehicle combines environmentally sensitive electric power with traditional four-cylinder gasoline power.This gas-and-electric combination makes the compact, four-door sedan extremely clean running and produces amazing fuel-efficiency-up to 52 miles per gallon in stop-and-go city driving.

With most urban areas choked with commuter traffic during morning and evening rush hours, the Prius makes for a comfortable and quiet cocoon to help maintain your sanity when the surrounding traffic can barely maintain the speed limit.

The Prius is Toyota's first foray into the 'green' automotive marketplace, and joins the much smaller Honda Insight as the only gas-and-electric-powered vehicles for sale in the U.S.

The hybrid system is easy because it requires no commitment from the driver: You don't have to tell the car to switch to either the gas or electric motor-it does it automatically.Plus, you also don't have to plug the Prius in at night to recharge it, as the gas, electric and battery system is self-contained and recharges itself while you're driving.Under medium acceleration, the gas and electric motor work together to provide the power you need to merge on the highway.When you only need a little power, say for stop-and-go driving in traffic, the gas engine shuts off.What throws you off during your first drive is how the cabin goes silent when you come to a complete stop-since the engine isn't needed, it shuts down.Normally, with this quiet a cabin you'd think that the engine had stalled.Plus, when you're sitting in traffic with the gas engine off, the Prius emits zero emissions.This helps the Prius earn the tough SULEV rating, for super low-emissions vehicle.
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Mazda to license hybrid technology from Toyota

2011-02-28T16:28:00.000-08:00

Starting in 2013, Mazda will become the second manufacturer (after Nissan) to directly use Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. Mazda has signed a licensing agreement with the hybrid behemoth that will see the smaller company get a supply of hybrid hardware – presumably including transmissions, power electronics (including software) and battery packs.

The drive components will be paired up with the new-generation, direct-injected Sky engines that Mazda displayed at the Tokyo Motor Show last fall. Mazda will build a new hybrid vehicle starting in 2013 using this equipment, the first it has produced on its own. The only previous Mazda hybrid was the Tribute, a re-badged Ford Escape.

Nissan has now produced its own in-house hybrid system and when the Altima is redesigned in the next few years it seems unlikely it will retain its current Toyota hybrid system. Click past the break to view the press release.

[Source: Toyota | Mazda]

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2010 Toyota Sequoia Platinum 4X4 FFV

2011-02-27T16:23:00.000-08:00

Expert Reviews

"To compile a Full Review covering the 2009 Toyota Sequoia, TheCarConnection.com researched a wide range of road tests. TheCarConnection.com's editors have also driven the 2009 Toyota Sequoia and include their own impressions to help you make the most informed decision.Based on the super-sized Toyota Tundra pickup, the 2009 Toyota Sequoia has little choice but to be extra large. Launched in 2008 as an all-new vehicle, the Sequoia eclipses the vehicle it replaced and is now playing in the same leagues as the Chevrolet Suburban, Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada.
The behemoth from Toyota comes standard with a 4.7-liter V-8 and five-speed automatic that gets 14/17 mpg when outfitted with rear-wheel drive and only 13/16 mpg with four-wheel drive. An optional 381-horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8, with its more efficient six-speed automatic, gets 14/19 mpg with two-wheel drive and 13/18 mpg with four-wheel-drive. The fuel economy numbers are a little better than those of the Expedition, Suburban, and Armada by a mile or so, but in the days of fluctuating fuel prices and the "greening" of everything, they seem a bit out of touch with reality.

The interior of the 2009 Toyota Sequioa was designed for large Americans, and the available room is tremendous. Both the front and second row of seats can handle adults easily, and the third-row seating has reasonable space for the post-teen ages. With the power-folding option, expanding the already generous rear cargo area is a breeze.Most of the interior design and controls carry over from the Tundra, and it isn't necessarily a good thing. The finishes are less rich-looking than before, too, though plenty of features—from navigation systems to satellite radio—are offered.The 2009 Toyota Sequoia comes with standard rear-wheel drive; four-wheel drive and an adjustable suspension are optional. The 4WD models have a knob-operated electronic two-speed transfer case containing a lockable Torsen limited-slip differential that transmits power to front and rear axles and can be locked with the push of a button.The new, fully independent suspension has an available Active Variable (rear air) Suspension (AVS) package that has settings for comfort, normal, and sport modes.The Sequoia drives small despite its larger tires and wheels (18-inch alloys standard, 20-inchers optional). The turning radius is a sedan-like 39 feet, and handling is surprisingly capable for a vehicle of its size, but the Sequoia's height and sheer size, paired with tough outward visibility, make it cumbersome to maneuver. Steering is light but reasonably precise, and braking is solid and powerful even when towing a heavy load.The 2009 Toyota Sequoia offers all the luxurious features and options you come to expect from a large SUV; from copious cup holders and storage to available middle-row captain's chairs, premium audio, DVD rear entertainment, and a reclining/power folding 60/40 split third-row bench.The 2009 Toyota Sequoia gets a five-star rating for driver-side front-impact protection, along with four stars for the front passenger, from NHTSA, and it comes with all the expected safety equipment, including electronic stability control, side, and side-curtain airbags."

2010 Toyota Sienna XLE Limited FWD

2011-02-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

Expert Reviews

"The editors at TheCarConnection.com have driven the Toyota Sienna and combine their own driving impressions with a practical assessment in this Bottom Line. They've also looked to some of the most respected review resources on the Web and selected some of the best excerpts for a Full Review on the 2010 Toyota Sienna.The 2010 Toyota Sienna is a great example of a minivan. While not winning any awards for driving qualities, it excels at what it's meant to do: comfortably and efficiently carry a family and all their gear.
The Sienna has remained virtually unchanged in the six years it's been on the market. This is rather telling in terms of its dull styling inside and out, especially when compared to its newer, chicer competitors.Either way, those in the market for a larger family van will generally be pleased with the 2010 Toyota Sienna. The vehicle offers a 266-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission to briskly carry eight people inside. Minivan buyers might not be too interested in sports car handling, which the Sienna doesn't have, but there's a generous amount of power on tap if needed, even with a full load. The base Sienna is front-wheel drive, but the LE, XLE, and XLE Limited models are available with an optional all-wheel-drive system to help when things get slippery.The 2010 Sienna includes a very spacious interior with a third row of seats that fold neatly into a well, allowing plenty of flat, low space for cargo while maintaining seating for five. In case you need more space, the second row of seats can fold away as well, allowing you to carry things as big as 4x8 sheets of plywood. Note, however, that the top-of-the-line 2010 Toyota Sienna XLE and XLE Limited models get twin captain's chairs in the second row instead of the three-place bench seat. Dual sliding doors and folding third-row seats are included on all models. A higher trim level gives you power sliding doors, a power folding third row, and a power rear tailgate. The only noticeable complaint might be that the interior materials and appointments feel a bit less refined compared to those of its competitors, though overall quality is still commendable.One of the most crucial aspects for minivans is safety. After all, minivans are designed to carry your most precious cargo, and thankfully, the 2010 Toyota Sienna posts favorable results in independent crash tests. The vehicle scores four- and five-star ratings for frontal impact and five stars in side impact from the federal government, as well as "good" judgments from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in frontal and side impact tests. Unfortunately, the IIHS deems the Sienna "poor" in the seat-based rear impact test, which gauges the risk of whiplash injury, among other things. At least electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes are standard on every grade of the 2010 Toyota Sienna, along with front side airbags and side curtain bags covering all three seating rows.Compared to luxury-branded vehicles, the 2010 Toyota Sienna's options list is hardly lacking. Niceties include a rearview video camera, front/rear parking proximity warnings, side sunshades, laser-guided cruise control, a DVD entertainment system, satellite navigation, and a JBL surround-sound audio system (standard on the XLE Limited) that includes Bluetooth hands-free connectivity."
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2010 Toyota Sienna XLE Limited AWD

2011-02-27T16:18:00.000-08:00

Styling

6out of 10

"The Sienna has remained virtually unchanged in the six years it's been on the market. This is telling in terms of its rather dull design inside and out, especially when compared to its newer, more stylish competitors. In some ways, the simple one-box profile is dictated by the requirements of carrying as much as possible, be it passengers or cargo, coupled with fulfilling safety and fuel economy needs.
As can be expected of a minivan, the design of the 2010 Toyota Sienna is not something that most automotive writers rave about. Road & Track half-heartedly classifies it and other minivans as "family cartons," and MyRide.com, the biggest fan of its lines, finds "the basic shape of the Sienna appealing," though they cite its "sneering grille work and those big headlights" as the features that create the strongest impression. Kelley Blue Book offers mild praise, describing the Sienna as "smartly styled," but admits that this generation of the van, now in its sixth year, "offers nothing radical in the way of exterior features or design."Inside, the Sienna isn't going to set any pulses racing, but the simplicity wins over some reviewers. Edmunds reports that "the Sienna's spacious cabin is handsomely fitted." MyRide.com claims the "Sienna driver sits before a smooth, organic dashboard, with a prominent if slightly awkward center stack." They like its standard trim with its "dark, lacquered-look plastic," but are less favorable of the faux wood on the XLE and limited, which "looks tacked on.""

Conclusion

The 2010 Toyota Sienna keeps it simple, with practicality its main selling point.

Performance

7out of 10

"Most in the market for a larger family van will generally be pleased with the way the 2010 Toyota Sienna performs. With a 266-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, the vehicle can accommodate eight people.The Sienna surprises with its straight-line acceleration, which should put a smile on the face of a parent who still enjoys a little driving excitement. The 3.5-liter DOHC V-6 features dual variable valve timing for the best of low-end torque and high-end power. Its 266 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque rating make it "the strong, silent type, rushing to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds" by Car and Driver's stopwatch. Kelley Blue Book backs this up, stating that the engine "delivers where it counts." Additionally, Edmunds admits "there's no denying the potency of the new V6 when you step into it."However, despite its athletic acceleration, the Sienna offers competitive EPA ratings of 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models. Opt for an all-wheel-drive model and you'll see fuel economy drop to 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.The 2010 Toyota Sienna only offers a five-speed automatic transmission, which reviewers find smooth and well suited when coupled with the V-6's power. Car and Driver remarks that with the match of the engine and transmission, "if choosing a minivan came down to the powertrain, this Toyota would be a slam-dunk." Edmunds faults the Sienna's transmission, claiming that the "automatic transmission is calibrated more for fuel economy than performance and thus tends to shift conservatively." Note that this is probably appropriate for a minivan, as well as for economy. Kelley Blue Book, however, contends that the transmission "makes the most of the engine's torque curve before seamlessly shifting to the next gear."The base Sienna is front-wheel drive, but the LE, XLE, and XLE Limited models are available with an optional all-wheel-drive system to help when things get slippery.Handling might not be so enthusiastic in the 2010 Sienna, but it's at least maneuverable. Even the matter-of-fact reviewers over at ConsumerGuide note that "tire grip seems only adequate and the steering is a tad over-assisted." Car and Driver faults the "the generally aloof responses of the controls," and state that "the brakes feel wooden…the steering lacks sharpness." On a positive note, those brakes are four-wheel discs, unlike the previous-generation Sienna, which makes do with drums on the rear. And despite its front-wheel-drive layout, the Sienna manages "a tidy turning circle of 36.8 feet…the envy of several passenger cars," claims Car and Driver. More criticism comes from Edmunds, which notes that the "Sienna offers little inspiration in the handling department" and that it "feels secure enough" but offers "minimal steering feedback and considerable body roll.""

Conclusion

The performance levels of the 2010 Toyota Sienna are suited to the vehicle's needs, offering enough power for overtaking but maintaining ordinarily safe handling.

Quality

8out of 10

"The 2010 Sienna includes a very spacious interior with a third row of seats that fold neatly into a well, allowing plenty of flat, low space for cargo while maintaining seating for five. Note, however, that the top-of-the-line 2010 Toyota Sienna XLE and XLE Limited models get twin captain's chairs in the second row instead of the three-place bench seat. Dual sliding doors and folding third-row seats are included on all models. A higher trim level gives you power sliding doors, a power folding third row, and a power rear tailgate.Up front, ConsumerGuide reports "room aplenty on comfortable seats" and "no-strain entry and exit." Furthermore, they appreciate that "standard seat and steering-wheel adjustments cater to most any size driver." One of Car and Driver's testers note "butt burn" from the driver's seat resulting from a shape that forces a thin person's weight uncomfortably forward on the cushion.Edmunds finds that in the second and third row, the Sienna is "one of the roomiest minivans available," and in Car and Driver's minivan comparison, the Sienna's optional "second-row captain's chairs were rated highest for comfort." Kelley Blue Book notes that "the Sienna's seats take full advantage of the van's roomy interior, with wide seat bottoms as well as firm back rests." "Bench or buckets, the second-row seats seem long-haul comfortable," comments ConsumerGuide. The Sienna is one of the few minivans to offer true eight-passenger capacity.In case you need more space, the second row of seats can fold away as well, allowing you to carry things as big as 4x8 sheets of plywood. Kelley Blue Book elucidates, "the Sienna's rear seat can fold flush into the floor and features a 60/40 split." However, its removable seats are a bit heavier and more difficult to manage than in some of its rivals.The Sienna impresses all-around interior-wise, thanks to quality fit and finish. The only noticeable complaint might be that the interior materials and appointments feel a bit less refined compared to those of its competitors, though overall quality is still commendable. "The gauges are clear," says ConsumerGuide, "and minor controls are guess-free." Thoughtful features abound, such as "door panels … scooped out to give exceptionally good elbow space" (Car and Driver). "The various controls are simple to use, storage space is plentiful and the seats are plush," notes Edmunds. And the ever-critical ConsumerGuide mentions "the cabin benefits from high-grade plastics, but some of our testers say the colors and fabrics are drab."Perhaps making up for its lack of athletic moves, Car and Driver claims that in comparison with the others makes in this segment, "what you get instead of confident handling is a soft, quiet ride that makes the others seem a bit rude." Edmunds also notes the "softly tuned suspension," and ConsumerGuide finds the van to be "comfortably composed. Large humps and dips induce some body bounce, but the suspension irons out most rough pavement."The Sienna's noise levels, according to ConsumerGuide, are "at least equal to the class-topping Honda and Chrysler/Dodge minivans" and that "the main noise source is moderate coarse-pavement tire thrum.""

Features

9out of 10

"The 2010 Toyota Sienna makes up for dull styling with its options and features, notably an all-wheel-drive system. Other niceties include a rearview video camera, front/rear parking proximity warnings, side sunshades, laser-guided cruise control, a DVD entertainment system, satellite navigation, and a JBL surround-sound audio system (standard on the XLE Limited) that includes Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.Edmunds hails the Sienna's Lexus-like list of features and feels that the vehicle's optional "telescoping steering wheel, adaptive cruise control and rear sunshades" are "features not typically seen on a minivan." Kelley Blue Book, on the other hand, is a fan of the Sienna's sliding side-door power windows and its split flush-folding third-row seat. In a segment where others don't allow windows to open at all, they feel it's nice to "allow passengers to enjoy as much fresh air as they like."Kelley Blue Book also highlights the more vital features on the base model, which includes a V-6 engine, five-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock brakes, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), 10 cup holders, a rear defroster, side-impact and side-curtain airbags, dual sliding side doors with power windows, power door locks, illuminated remote keyless entry, a power liftgate release, AM/FM stereo with CD, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, power windows, full wheel covers, and a rear wiper. Considering the $25,000-odd price tag, owners get quite a lot of standard kit.Some of the optional goodies include features such as the aforementioned all-wheel drive, power seats, leather interior, heated front seats, cruise control, dual power sliding side doors, a JBL audio system with 10 speakers and Bluetooth connectivity (standard on Limited), a power-folding third-row seat (Limited), four-wheel disc brakes, power lumbar support, DVD rear-seat entertainment system, and alloy wheels. The Limited trim offers Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, and Limited and XLE come with optional navigation as part of the JBL audio upgrade.Car and Driver finds that there is a "Honda-style fold-down table with a cup holder at each corner and a large tray in the middle," to which Toyota adds "a lidded bin and splendid surface detailing." There are two glove boxes in the Sienna, one stacked on top of the other, but the top "box on the Toyota is sized for gloves and little more." The conversation mirror is described by Road & Track as "a convex piece mounted in the over-head console allowing parents to keep tabs on the youngsters.""

Safety

8out of 10

"One of the most crucial aspects for minivans is their safety. After all, minivans are designed to carry your most precious cargo, and thankfully, the 2010 Toyota Sienna posts favorable results in independent crash tests.The Sienna scores four- and five-star ratings for frontal impact, five stars in side impact from the federal government, and "good" judgments from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in frontal and side impact tests. Unfortunately, the IIHS deems the Sienna "poor" in the seat-based rear impact test, which gauges the risk of whiplash injury, among other things.Electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes are standard on every grade of the 2010 Toyota Sienna, as are front side airbags and side curtain bags covering all three seating rows.Car and Driver finds the Sienna's safety levels "typical for this class," and lists the notable active safety features as "ABS with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, as well as a stability control system incorporating traction control." They continue: "passive features include two-stage front airbags, front seat side airbags, and curtain airbags for all three rows."Edmunds points out that "the XLE Limited also comes with front and rear park assist, while rear park assist is available on LE and XLE trims. If you opt for the navigation system, you'll also get a handy rearview camera.""

2010 Toyota Venza 4X4 V6

2011-02-27T16:08:00.000-08:00

Overview

The Toyota Venza rides and handles like a car, but offers the cargo space of an SUV. It's more utilitarian than an ordinary car, yet it's smaller and lower than an SUV. Venza comes with premium equipment and attributes normally associated with SUVs.

The Venza is built on the Camry platform, and made in the same plant in Georgetown, Kentucky. But the Venza is more than an upscale, contemporary rendition of a Camry station wagon. The Venza is more original than that, and more functional, loaded with a mix of highly evolved features and fresh design ideas. Venza compares most closely with the Honda Accord Crosstour.

It's essentially a tall car, with a roomy, cleverly designed interior, that can handle the hauling tasks that make SUVs a popular choice. It's a family car, a good daily runabout that's easy to drive and park. And it's highly useful, for moving people, pets and grocery-getting. We found it spacious and comfortable.

Venza is available with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6, both backed by a six-speed automatic transmission. It's available in all-wheel-drive (AWD) and front-wheel-drive (FWD) configurations.

The four-cylinder makes 182 horsepower and 182 pound-feet of torque and gets an EPA-estimated 21/29 mpg City/Highway. The V6 is rated at 268 horsepower and 246 pound-feet of torque and is rated at 18/25 mpg with all-wheel drive.

Venza was launched as a 2009, and the only changes for 2010 involve the audio system. 2010 Venza models come with iPod connectivity, a USB port, and Bluetooth.

On the road, the Venza feels like a car. It rides smoothly and quietly and steers easily. We were impressed with its stability on slippery roads, whether equipped with all-wheel drive or not. Although there are some SUV attributes, such as the higher seat height and a high degree of cargo versatility, from the driver's seat you'd swear you were in a four-door sedan.

Model Lineup

The 2010 Toyota Venza comes with choice of four-cylinder ($26,275) or V6 ($28,100). All-wheel-drive is available for either ($1450). Four-cylinder models ride on P245/55R19 tires on 19-inch, 10-spoke aluminum wheels; V6 models upgrade to P245/50R20 tires on 20-inch, five-spoke wheels.

Standard equipment includes cloth upholstery; dual-zone automatic climate control with air filter and second-row vents; cruise control; AM/FM audio with XM satellite radio and six speakers; six-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback, iPod connectivity, a USB port; Bluetooth; tilt/telescopic adjustable steering wheel with integrated audio controls; dual vanity mirrors; power windows with auto up/down function and jam protection on all four doors; cargo tonneau cover; rear personal overhead lamps; 14-degree rear seat recline; rear spoiler; and one-touch levers to fold the rear seats forward from the cargo area. Also standard are multi-projector-beam headlamps with auto on-off; integrated fog lamps; power outside mirrors; UV reduction glass windshield; privacy glass on two rear side windows and back window; variable intermittent windshield wipers; rear window intermittent wiper; remote keyless entry system; carbon fiber interior trim; overhead console with map lights; center console with sliding cover and armrest; three 12-volt auxiliary power outlets.

Options include navigation system ($2,590), JBL Premium Audio ($1,090), panoramic sunroof with tilt-and-slide forward section ($1,050), and rear-seat DVD entertainment ($1,680).

The Leather Package ($1600) includes leather-trimmed seats, shift knob, and steering wheel with satin-mahogany wood-grain style trim and a four-way power passenger seat. The Security Package ($570) features a backup camera and anti-theft alarm. The Convenience Package ($860) adds a power rear lift gate and Smart Key. The Lighting Package ($815) adds HID headlights and automatic high beams. The Tow Prep Package ($220) includes an engine oil cooler, heavy duty fan, and larger alternator.

Safety features include seven air bags and active headrests (front); Hill-Start Assist Control. Toyota's Star Safety System comes standard and includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) systems with a cutoff switch, plus Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. A tire-pressure monitor system and child protector rear door locks are standard.

Walkaround

Smooth, fluid lines and aerodynamic sculpting characterize the Toyota Venza, which is slightly shorter and lower overall than most crossovers we've been in.

Viewed from the front, a high, wide grille that flows into flame-shaped headlamps functions to accentuate the overall wide stance of the car. The combination of lamp types gathered in the headlamp clusters, contrasted with the simple. separate fog lamps below, creates a crisp, technical feeling.

In profile, the Venza appears sleek and contemporary, thanks to low rocker panels and narrow doorsills, much more like a car than a SUV. In keeping with the FT-SX concept vehicle that inspired the design, the wheels are placed out at the corners of the body, snugly positioned in the wheelwells, and there is minimal overhang on either end.

The 20-inch wheels of the V6 versions become especially prominent, suggesting something surefooted in everyday driving, even sporty on a winding road. Their five spokes are dramatically three-dimensional, whereas the standard 19-inch, 10-spoke wheels look clean, machined, and high-tech.

At the rear, S-shaped tail lamps contribute to the sporty feeling. The end result is to convey the impression of a smart, modern, and practical car. Most of all, the design conveys Toyota's long-view DNA, a way of saying that none of the Venza's visual elements are clich�s likely to become dated or out of style during the life of the car.

OVERVIEW
MODEL LINEUP
WALKAROUND
INTERIOR FEATURES
DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
SUMMARY

Interior Features

The Toyota Venza is intended to be a refined, potentially luxurious alternative to a five-passenger sedan. And to offer more cargo and passenger space in the process. So the interior has been endowed with an unusual mix of qualities, selected to combine easy-to-drive attributes of a premium car with high-utility flexibility of an SUV.

Keyless entry allowed us to just walk up to the Venza and hop in; all five doors unlock at one touch. The Venza is easy to get into, because the step-in height is quite low, same as a Camry, but the higher roofline makes entry easier for taller people. Once in the seat, we pressed the Start button and the instrument panel came to life. While the gauges are brightly lit and highly visible, the car is very quiet at idle.

Seat quality is appropriate for a car that might convey a family and their pets on long-distance drives. The cushion length and seat back width are designed for comfort, and there is just enough side bolstering to allow for side-to-side support when the driving is more spirited. The seating position is a tad higher than the average car, more like a minivan, which affords easier visibility of the road ahead. The power seats have a nice range of adjustment, easily accommodating our average frame, and the steering wheel telescopes and adjusts about an inch and a half, each way. It takes only a moment to adjust for legroom and seat angle, set the mirrors, and select Drive.

From the inside, the feeling is of spaciousness, especially in the front row. The front dash layout uses a cleverly arched console and centrally mounted information pod to make it appear as though 60 percent of the front space is devoted to each side.

There is not much difference in quality between the leather interior and the cloth. Both include a nicely textured dash; the cloth interior makes use of carbon-fiber accents for a high-tech appearance, while the leather interior has wood-grain accents to achieve a clean, modern take on classical materials. Both convey the look and feel of quality. The shift lever is canted slightly to the driver's side. There are two interior colors: ivory or light gray.

The instrument cluster prioritizes an oversized speedometer, which is at the center of the cluster, with a slightly smaller tachometer to the left. Semi-circular fuel and temperature gauges are smaller and located to the right. The shift position indicator is a modest LED display at center. The instruments look good, are bright enough even when the sun hits them directly, and pleasing at night.

Twisting stalks for lights, wipers and washers, and cruise control are mounted on the steering wheel.

The center console is designed to be simple, clean, and uncluttered. It contains low-relief, soft-touch controls for the information center, the audio system and the HVAC (heating/air conditioning) system. The console has a soft armrest cover over an unusually deep storage area, which is highly organized. There is a built-in MP3 player cubby designed to hold players such as iPods securely. The Auxiliary plug is located out of the way, under a retracting lid that houses cup holders, and the wire can be run so that it is hidden while in use, providing near-perfect integration of the iPod into the Venza's interior. There is also a covered slot that made a perfect place to put our Razor cell phone. The doors have bottle holders and a map slot.

The back row seats are surprisingly accommodating. With the driver's seat adjusted for a 6-foot person, we easily had enough legroom to be comfortable for long trips. While the Venza is wider and taller overall than the Camry, it shares the same wheelbase, and (within a fraction of an inch) the same overall length. These dimensions make the Venza appear wider and lower, and permit increased hip room, head room and a higher seating height. Interestingly, while the Venza has a little more rear seat legroom than the Camry, too, it has a little less in front. Overall passenger volume is about 6 percent greater in the Venza than in the Camry.

The Venza is thoughtfully designed for people with pets. Among the available accessories are a selection of pet products, including a travel harness, rear pet barrier, a pet tent for smaller dogs, and seat cover for the rear bench seat. The harness, dog fence and tent add greatly to safety because the forces involved in a flying dog can be deadly to both dog and humans.

Driving Impressions

On the road, the Venza feels like a car, and not much like a truck. In ordinary driving it rides smoothly and quietly, just like a car, steers easily, and seems as quiet as a Camry. We drove smoothly from place to place, wipers and headlights on in the rain, observing speed limits between 35 and 55 mph, with minimal need to concentrate. At those speeds, cornering was achieved with minimal body roll (lean), and steering was light and accurate. The Venza sits higher off the ground than a Camry, so there is a bit more body lean in the corners, but suspension travel is more like a car than an SUV, so the Venza transitions from side to side cleanly and easily.

We were impressed with the stability of the Venza on steep, curving roads covered with wet leaves. We never felt a wiggle in these slippery conditions, under throttle or braking, all day long. As the day wore on, we tried out both four-cylinder and V6 models, and all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive versions, and drove the now-familiar roads harder, occasionally hitting speeds up to 70 mph. We still never got into the traction control, or the anti-lock brakes, which speaks well for the tires and the wide stance of the Venza.

The brakes respond to pressure with a nice, easy-to-control mix of pedal assist and firm feedback.

The Venza is not designed to be an off-road vehicle, although it does have 8.1 inches of ground clearance, comparable to compact SUVs. The all-wheel-drive system (also used on the RAV4) can bias torque equally on a 50/50 basis, front to rear. With that kind of flexibility, the AWD Venza has the capability to be an especially sure-footed, all-weather transport, and that includes snow.

2010 Toyota Yaris Sedan 4-Spd AT Reviews

2011-02-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

Expert Reviews

TheCarConnection.com has highlighted some of the most useful review information in compiling our full review on the 2010 Toyota Yaris. And for a quick take and what you need to know about the Yaris, you'll want to read on for our editors' Bottom Line summary, which includes firsthand driving experience with the entire Yaris lineup.The Yaris replaced the Echo in Toyota's lineup three years ago and has done much better in general—thanks to a lineup that includes both hatchbacks and sedans. For 2009, Toyota added a five-door Liftback hatchback to the lineup, which already included a four-door sedan and three-door Liftback.The Yaris still manages to look quite stylish compared to most other models in its class—especially as a hatchback.

The two body styles of this model clearly cater to two different classes. While the sedan is slightly more conservative in its trims and interior treatment, the three- and five-door Liftback models are more flamboyant, with a more aerodynamic look, European design influences, and a rear roof spoiler atop the hatch. Inside, the Yaris has a very unconventional look, with a center-mounted gauge cluster and Liftback models offering large storage areas behind a slim center stack of controls. The interior is a contrast of elements good and bad, desirable and tacky, as Toyota obviously is trying to make a fashionable cabin while watching its price very carefully.A 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine powers the Yaris, and buyers can choose either from a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The power output is low, but it's adequate for a small, light (about 2,300 pounds) car of this type. The engine works quite well with either transmission, though it's a bit louder with the automatic. Keep the revs down and be gentle on the throttle and you won't hear the engine much at all. Fuel economy is very good, at 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway with the manual, and TheCarConnection.com's editors have seen as high as 41 mpg in gentle driving.The 2010 Toyota Yaris sedan is nearly two feet longer and has a three-inch-longer wheelbase, which translates to more backseat space and better stability on the highway. Both versions of the Yaris maneuver reasonably well but aren't as frisky as, say, a MINI Cooper or even a Honda Fit, due to a suspension that's clearly tuned to favor ride over handling. Though the Yaris Liftback model rides on a very short, 96.9-inch wheelbase and is one of the shortest new vehicles, at about 150 inches long, it can get pitchy or bouncy on certain types of roads. It's ideal as a commuter that can fit into the tightest parking spots, yet handle longer trips when the need arises.Getting more intimate with the Yaris, you'll notice an interior that's obviously been affected by cost-cutting. While the instrument panel looks quite good from a few paces away, it's actually made of hard, easily scratched plastics. Front seats are rather small and skimpy, while the backseat on the Liftback is tough to get into but decent for space; kids should be just fine back there.For 2010, Toyota has greatly improved the Yaris' standard safety feature list, which now includes electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist (both features either optional or with limited availability in other inexpensive small cars), plus front side airbags, and roll-sensing side curtain bags. The Yaris has not been a good performer in U.S. crash tests, though; it gets just three stars for side-impact safety, and the IIHS rates the Yaris as "marginal" for rear impact and "acceptable" in its new roof-strength test.The 2010 Toyota Yaris has a relatively simple lineup, with a single model offered for each body style and transmission. Although air conditioning and keyless entry are included in all models, if you don't option up you'll have manual wind-up windows. A Sport Package brings body-color bumpers and side rocker panels; in addition, it picks up sport seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter knob, 15-inch wheels, a rear defroster, a rear wiper, and an audio system with MP3 capability and an auxiliary jack. Cruise control is on offer, as is a cold-weather package with rear-seat heater ducts."

The Bottom Line

"Improved safety features make the 2010 Toyota Yaris an even more alluring package for those watching every penny in a new-car purchase.

Buying Tips

Also well worth considering is the Scion xD, which is closely related to the Yaris hatchback but with a larger engine and more standard features, at a slightly higher price.

Source: http://autos.yahoo.com

2010 Toyota Yaris Liftback 5-Door AT reviews

2011-02-27T08:33:00.000-08:00

Expert Reviews

"TheCarConnection.com has highlighted some of the most useful review information in compiling our full review on the 2010 Toyota Yaris. And for a quick take and what you need to know about the Yaris, you'll want to read on for our editors' Bottom Line summary, which includes firsthand driving experience with the entire Yaris lineup.The Yaris replaced the Echo in Toyota's lineup three years ago and has done much better in general—thanks to a lineup that includes both hatchbacks and sedans.
For 2009, Toyota added a five-door Liftback hatchback to the lineup, which already included a four-door sedan and three-door Liftback.The Yaris still manages to look quite stylish compared to most other models in its class—especially as a hatchback. The two body styles of this model clearly cater to two different classes. While the sedan is slightly more conservative in its trims and interior treatment, the three- and five-door Liftback models are more flamboyant, with a more aerodynamic look, European design influences, and a rear roof spoiler atop the hatch. Inside, the Yaris has a very unconventional look, with a center-mounted gauge cluster and Liftback models offering large storage areas behind a slim center stack of controls. The interior is a contrast of elements good and bad, desirable and tacky, as Toyota obviously is trying to make a fashionable cabin while watching its price very carefully.A 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine powers the Yaris, and buyers can choose either from a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The power output is low, but it's adequate for a small, light (about 2,300 pounds) car of this type. The engine works quite well with either transmission, though it's a bit louder with the automatic. Keep the revs down and be gentle on the throttle and you won't hear the engine much at all. Fuel economy is very good, at 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway with the manual, and TheCarConnection.com's editors have seen as high as 41 mpg in gentle driving.The 2010 Toyota Yaris sedan is nearly two feet longer and has a three-inch-longer wheelbase, which translates to more backseat space and better stability on the highway. Both versions of the Yaris maneuver reasonably well but aren't as frisky as, say, a MINI Cooper or even a Honda Fit, due to a suspension that's clearly tuned to favor ride over handling. Though the Yaris Liftback model rides on a very short, 96.9-inch wheelbase and is one of the shortest new vehicles, at about 150 inches long, it can get pitchy or bouncy on certain types of roads. It's ideal as a commuter that can fit into the tightest parking spots, yet handle longer trips when the need arises.Getting more intimate with the Yaris, you'll notice an interior that's obviously been affected by cost-cutting. While the instrument panel looks quite good from a few paces away, it's actually made of hard, easily scratched plastics. Front seats are rather small and skimpy, while the backseat on the Liftback is tough to get into but decent for space; kids should be just fine back there.For 2010, Toyota has greatly improved the Yaris' standard safety feature list, which now includes electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist (both features either optional or with limited availability in other inexpensive small cars), plus front side airbags, and roll-sensing side curtain bags. The Yaris has not been a good performer in U.S. crash tests, though; it gets just three stars for side-impact safety, and the IIHS rates the Yaris as "marginal" for rear impact and "acceptable" in its new roof-strength test.The 2010 Toyota Yaris has a relatively simple lineup, with a single model offered for each body style and transmission. Although air conditioning and keyless entry are included in all models, if you don't option up you'll have manual wind-up windows. A Sport Package brings body-color bumpers and side rocker panels; in addition, it picks up sport seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter knob, 15-inch wheels, a rear defroster, a rear wiper, and an audio system with MP3 capability and an auxiliary jack. Cruise control is on offer, as is a cold-weather package with rear-seat heater ducts."

The Bottom Line

"Improved safety features make the 2010 Toyota Yaris an even more alluring package for those watching every penny in a new-car purchase.

Source:http://autos.yahoo.com/2010_toyota_yaris_liftback_5_door_at-reviews_expert/

2010 Toyota Yaris Liftback 3-Door AT Reviews

2011-02-27T08:31:00.000-08:00

Expert Reviews

"TheCarConnection.com has highlighted some of the most useful review information in compiling our full review on the 2010 Toyota Yaris. And for a quick take and what you need to know about the Yaris, you'll want to read on for our editors' Bottom Line summary, which includes firsthand driving experience with the entire Yaris lineup.The Yaris replaced the Echo in Toyota's lineup three years ago and has done much better in general—thanks to a lineup that includes both hatchbacks and sedans. For 2009, Toyota added a five-door Liftback hatchback to the lineup, which already included a four-door sedan and three-door Liftback.The Yaris still manages to look quite stylish compared to most other models in its class—especially as a hatchback.
The two body styles of this model clearly cater to two different classes. While the sedan is slightly more conservative in its trims and interior treatment, the three- and five-door Liftback models are more flamboyant, with a more aerodynamic look, European design influences, and a rear roof spoiler atop the hatch. Inside, the Yaris has a very unconventional look, with a center-mounted gauge cluster and Liftback models offering large storage areas behind a slim center stack of controls. The interior is a contrast of elements good and bad, desirable and tacky, as Toyota obviously is trying to make a fashionable cabin while watching its price very carefully.A 106-horsepower, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine powers the Yaris, and buyers can choose either from a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The power output is low, but it's adequate for a small, light (about 2,300 pounds) car of this type. The engine works quite well with either transmission, though it's a bit louder with the automatic. Keep the revs down and be gentle on the throttle and you won't hear the engine much at all. Fuel economy is very good, at 29 mpg city, 36 mpg highway with the manual, and TheCarConnection.com's editors have seen as high as 41 mpg in gentle driving.The 2010 Toyota Yaris sedan is nearly two feet longer and has a three-inch-longer wheelbase, which translates to more backseat space and better stability on the highway. Both versions of the Yaris maneuver reasonably well but aren't as frisky as, say, a MINI Cooper or even a Honda Fit, due to a suspension that's clearly tuned to favor ride over handling. Though the Yaris Liftback model rides on a very short, 96.9-inch wheelbase and is one of the shortest new vehicles, at about 150 inches long, it can get pitchy or bouncy on certain types of roads. It's ideal as a commuter that can fit into the tightest parking spots, yet handle longer trips when the need arises.Getting more intimate with the Yaris, you'll notice an interior that's obviously been affected by cost-cutting. While the instrument panel looks quite good from a few paces away, it's actually made of hard, easily scratched plastics. Front seats are rather small and skimpy, while the backseat on the Liftback is tough to get into but decent for space; kids should be just fine back there.For 2010, Toyota has greatly improved the Yaris' standard safety feature list, which now includes electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist (both features either optional or with limited availability in other inexpensive small cars), plus front side airbags, and roll-sensing side curtain bags. The Yaris has not been a good performer in U.S. crash tests, though; it gets just three stars for side-impact safety, and the IIHS rates the Yaris as "marginal" for rear impact and "acceptable" in its new roof-strength test.The 2010 Toyota Yaris has a relatively simple lineup, with a single model offered for each body style and transmission. Although air conditioning and keyless entry are included in all models, if you don't option up you'll have manual wind-up windows. A Sport Package brings body-color bumpers and side rocker panels; in addition, it picks up sport seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shifter knob, 15-inch wheels, a rear defroster, a rear wiper, and an audio system with MP3 capability and an auxiliary jack. Cruise control is on offer, as is a cold-weather package with rear-seat heater ducts."

Buying Tips

Also well worth considering is the Scion xD, which is closely related to the Yaris hatchback but with a larger engine and more standard features, at a slightly higher price.

2010 Toyota Yaris Sedan 5-Spd MT review

2011-02-27T08:27:00.000-08:00

Expert Reviews

TheCarConnection.com researched authoritative auto reviews, blogs and auto news sources from around the Web in preparing this summary.

We also drove the 2010 Toyota Yaris and evaluated it for styling, handling, performance, value and quality to compile this definitive 2010 Toyota Yaris review.

Safety 7/10

"Toyota is upping the safety of the Yaris in leaps and bounds. Last year it added standard anti-lock braking, as well as side and curtain airbags; this year electronic stability control is also included with all models. The Yaris is one of the few vehicles in its class to offer the feature.For 2010 Toyota greatly improves the Yaris' standard safety feature list, which now includes electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist, front side airbags, and roll-sensing side curtain bags. The Yaris has not been a good performer in U.S. crash tests, though; it gets just three stars for side-impact safety, and the IIHS rates the Yaris as "marginal" for rear impact and "acceptable" in its new roof-strength test."

Conclusion

Although crash-test results aren't great, Toyota earns kudos for making the 2010 Yaris one of the first vehicles in its class to offer standard electronic stability control.

2010 Toyota Yaris Liftback 5-Door MT Review

2011-02-27T08:23:00.000-08:00

The Bottom Line

"Improved safety features make the 2010 Toyota Yaris an even more alluring package for those watching every penny in a new-car purchase."

Read the full review

Buying Tips

Also well worth considering is the Scion xD, which is closely related to the Yaris hatchback but with a larger engine and more standard features, at a slightly higher price.

2010 Toyota Yaris Liftback 3-Door MT Review

2011-02-27T08:21:00.000-08:00

Review Toyota Camry - What the Auto Press Says

2011-02-27T08:12:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Toyota Camry ranks 13 out of 18 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 79 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Camry, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The best-selling car in America for eight straight years, the Toyota Camry saw its reputation damaged by Toyota’s highly-publicized recalls for unintended acceleration (see our Toyota Recall page for details). Buyers still interested in a Camry will find a softly-tuned, comfortable commuter car, but we’ve seen reports of quality problems with the 2011 Toyota Camry.

Americans have known exactly what to expect from the Toyota Camry for years. It’s been a reliable, comfortable commuter for millions, which helped it conquer the market as the best-selling car in the U.S. for nearly a decade. In 2010, it won the U.S. News Best Midsize Car for the Money Award for the second year in a row. But a series of highly-publicized recalls for unintended acceleration and reviews citing build-quality problems, have raised questions about the Camry’s reliability. The 2011 Toyota Camry is one of Toyota’s first post-recall cars -- and the automotive press is watching carefully to see whether it is part of a renaissance for the brand, or another contributor to its fall from grace.

The 2011 Toyota Camry has a long list of virtues, but they’re virtues that don’t necessarily impress auto reviewers. The Camry offers a spacious, comfortable interior and is tuned for a smooth ride -- but that means it’s sluggish in the corners, and its base four-cylinder engine is not particularly quick. Motor Trend calls it, “The Wal-Mart of family cars,” which is both a compliment and an insult -- it’s popular and predictable, but not particularly exciting. In previous years, reviewers have praised its bulletproof reputation for reliability. But in the wake of Toyota’s string of recalls, many don’t know what to think of its quality.

For Toyota loyalists, the 2011 Toyota Camry may represent a great buying opportunity, especially since Toyota has been discounting the Camry with heavy incentives in recent months. Be sure to check for current Toyota Deals for details. Others, however, may find that the Camry is not the automatic answer it used to be for buyers looking for a reliable car they didn’t have to think much about.

Other Cars to Consider:

The Affordable Midsize Car class is much more competitive than it was just a few years ago. Midsize car shoppers today will find many excellent family cars that might meet their needs. Those looking for a more exciting ride might want to consider the sharp-cornering Mazda6, or the agile Ford Fusion which also boasts Ford’s excellent SYNC infotainment system. Buyers attracted to the Camry’s smooth ride might want to test drive the 2011 Hyundai Sonata as well. It offers a relaxed ride similar to the Camry’s, but has one of the highest fuel-efficiency ratings in its class, and more interior space than the 2011 Camry.

Toyota Camry: The Details

The Camry was last redesigned for the 2008 model year. Some material used in this review may refer to earlier model years that are substantially similar. The Camry is available in a stripped-down base model, a better-equipped LE edition, a sport-tuned SE model and a top-of-the-line XLE trim level. The 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid, a close variant of the gas-only Camry, is reviewed separately.

Shoppers might want to note that 2007 through 2010 Camry sedans were included in a pair of massive and highly-publicized recalls due to allegations that a Camry, under certain conditions, could accelerate even when its driver wasn’t touching the gas pedal. A Toyota spokesperson tells us that the 2011 Camry’s accelerator pedal is a new design that's not affected by the recalls. The 2011 Toyota Camry is also one of the first Toyotas to feature a new brake override system, which ensures that the engine can’t cause the car to accelerate while the brake pedal is being pressed. There have been no allegations of unintended acceleration regarding the 2011 Toyota Camry, but it has only been on the market for a very short time.

"Toyota's best-selling Camry became the people's car by excelling in quality and refinement, but has taken a PR hit after recalls in early 2010. Whether it's a base model or deluxe XLE, the four cylinder or V-6, the Camry delivers spacious comfort. Still, the Honda Accord and Mazda 6 drive better." -- Car and Driver
"Camry is no excitement machine--not even the sporty SE version--and most test examples have suffered uncharacteristic lapses in materials and workmanship. Still, Camry is a worthwhile pick for its powertrain refinement and passenger comfort." -- Consumer Guide
"The Toyota Camry is one of the best affordable midsized cars on the market today." -- Automobile.com
"With so many appealing options to choose from, we strongly advise shopping around and test-driving as many models as possible. We're fans of the Camry, though." -- Edmunds
"This is a perfectly functional, perfectly capable, perfectly reasonable, perfectly boring automobile. ... Again, all pleasant enough and functional enough, but it's duller than an empty office cubicle." -- AutoWeek

Camry Performance - 7.6 (Good)

The 2011 Toyota Camry is built to serve as a comfortable daily driver. Those looking for a family car or commuter with a gentle ride will be satisfied with what the 2011 Camry has to offer. But auto writers are generally unimpressed, calling it one of the least exciting rides in its class. Read More

Camry Exterior - 7.9 (Good)

Auto critics aren’t impressed with the look of the 2011 Toyota Camry. Terms like “dull” and “conservative” appear again and again in reviews. In fairness to Toyota designers, the Toyota Camry has been the best-selling car in America for eight straight years. It's hard for it to look distinctive when it’s such a common sight. Read More

Camry Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The Toyota Camry has always been known for its exceptionally comfortable cabin, and that remains true with the 2011 Camry. Reviewers say it is spacious and thoughtfully designed. With the 2011 model, however, we’ve seen a number of reports of problems pertaining to build quality. Read More

Camry Safety - 6.4 (Mediocre)

The 2011 Camry has not been crash-tested yet. However, the mechanically-similar 2010 model did very well in both government and insurance industry crash tests. The 2011 Camry is one of the first vehicles Toyota has produced since its series of high-profile recalls involving unintended acceleration. Toyota sources tell us it features a redesigned throttle system. Read More

Camry Reliability - NA

The 2011 Toyota Camry is covered by a three-year or 36,000-mile basic warranty, and a five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Read More
Source:http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com

2007 Toyota Camry Review

2011-02-27T08:11:00.000-08:00

Editors' note: Toyota issued a recall for vehicles of this model and year on January 21, 2010 to replace the accelerator pedal mechanism, which has been known to get stuck, causing unintended acceleration. For the latest recall information, please visit the Toyota Web site.

Toyota asserts that the all-new 2007 Toyota Camry's looks are a bold and assertive answer to the ordinary styling of the previous car. Toyota may be attempting to respond to critics who consider the Camry an appliance approach, as opposed to making an emotional appeal, to the car business. But Toyota's conservative approach with the Camry has earned it the top sales spot for a passenger car during eight of the last nine years. The new design allows a roomier cabin with a host of fine features. Both four- and six-cylinder engines have added power with good fuel economy and excellent emissions ratings. An auxiliary audio input is standard, and Bluetooth is available separately from the navigation package.

Upside: The new Toyota Camry is smooth and quiet over a variety of road surfaces, and handling is precise without punishing occupants with a harsh ride. The four-cylinder engine has adequate power for family chores and delivers 25mpg/34mpg (city and highway, respectively) fuel economy with a standard transmission. For added enthusiasm, the 3.5-liter V-6 from the Avalon model provides 268 horsepower, enough to surprise some sports sedans at a stoplight. All instrument trims feature backlit Optitron displays and an oil change reminder. All audio systems have MP3 and WMA playback capability, digital sound processors, and an auxiliary input for iPod and other portable audio devices. Bluetooth and GPS navigation are available as options.

Downside: For buyers who seek emotion in their ride, the Camry is still more sensible than arousing. Four-cylinder fuel economy with the automatic transmission, Toyota's most popular combination, has decreased slightly in highway EPA rating despite a change from five to six speeds. That's in vivid contrast to the gain in both power and economy of the six-cylinder offering. Base prices remain competitive with other midsize offerings but quickly escalate with the addition of comfort and convenience options.

Outlook: Despite aggressive competition from Kia with a similar-size, full-featured entrant at a lower price and Ford's competent new Fusion model, the Camry should keep its first place title. The buttoned-down styling is clean and contemporary, and the quality remains class-leading. Camry will also include a hybrid model that will help position the popular sedan as delivering high economy and leading technology. Finally, the addition of useful features will appeal to careful shoppers.

Source:http://reviews.cnet.com

Hybrid Vehicle

2011-02-25T09:53:00.000-08:00

What Is a Hybrid System?

A hybrid system combines different power sources to maximize each one's strengths, while compensating for the others' shortcomings. A gasoline-electric hybrid system, for example, combines an internal combustion engine's high-speed power with the clean efficiency and low-speed torque of an electric motor that never needs to be plugged in.

Are All Hybrids Created Equal?

There are several ways in which electric motors and a gas/petrol engine can be combined.

Toyota perfected the series/parallel or "full" hybrid to deliver the energy-saving benefit of a series hybrid together with the acceleration benefit of a parallel hybrid. Two key technologies — the power split device and sophisticated energy management — make this possible. They constantly optimize the flows of mechanical power and electric power for safe and comfortable vehicle operation at the highest possible efficiency.

The Full Hybrid

Toyota's unique hybrid system combines an electric motor and a gasoline engine in the most efficient manner. It saves fuel and reduces emissions while giving ample power.

2011 Toyota Highlander Limited 4WD

2011-02-25T08:25:00.000-08:00

One may have predicted 2008 to be an unlucky model year for the then-new, second-generation Toyota Highlander. Just a few months prior, Mazda's first-gen CX-9 debuted for the '07 model year, and shortly thereafter won a comparison test against the Acura MDX and GMC Acadia. Obviously, the Highlander had stiff competition before it even hit the street. Making matters worse for Toyota, the CX-9 got better for '08, thanks to a more powerful 3.7-liter V-6 that replaced the initial 3.5. In our 2008 Sport/Utility of the Year contest, both the Highlander and CX-9 competed -- more or less against each other, as each is a seven-passenger midsizer -- with the results heavily skewed toward the Mazda. (It was the unanimous winner of the Golden Calipers.) Unlucky Highlander? Not exactly.
Looking at sales numbers for 2008 and 2009 and through August 2010, the Toyota has outsold the Mazda nearly 4 to 1. Some of the discrepancy is attributable to the 4-cylinder and hybrid versions of the Highlander (combined, the two account for roughly 21 percent of the sales mix), for which the CX-9 doesn't have competitors. But that still leaves more than 203,000 V-6 Highlanders to more than 66,000 CX-9s. Chalk up the sales dominance to a variety of reasons, including the Highlander's established nameplate, Toyota's broader dealer network, and higher brand recognition. But let's not forget that the Highlander is a fine, capable, and well-built crossover in its own right. And for 2011 it just got better.

Click to view Gallery
Mechanically, nothing has changed for the I-4 or V-6 Highlander. Only the hybrid, which receives a new 3.5-liter V-6 that supplants the old 3.3, boasts any hardware updates. Aesthetically, however, the V-6 Highlander receives significant upgrades. Our Limited 4WD tester wore fresh sheetmetal from the A-pillar forward and featured such new cues as projector beam headlamps, black rocker panels, and chrome accents for the beltline, rocker panels, and front fascia, all of which give the Toy a sleeker, trimmer look. The taillamps, too, are redesigned, as are the 19-inch wheels, which wear 245/55 Toyo A20 Open Country all-season tires.
The refresh continues inside, where our tester sported black carpet and floor mats (Toyota got complaints about light-hued carpets showing too much dirt); revised, high-gloss faux wood trim; perforated leather-trimmed seats; and a 50/50-split fold-flat third row that replaces the previous one-piece unit. Being a Limited, our pre-production sample also came with a 10-way power driver seat, 3-zone automatic climate control, pushbutton start, and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. Options included the top-tier JBL audio system, power moonroof, and navigation.

Toyota Etios Review

2011-02-25T08:20:00.000-08:00

It’s been four years in the making. It has made the second-largest automotive manufacturer in the world go back to the drawing board again and again. It has made them do things they have never done before. At the end of it, Toyota has this to show, the Etios sedan (the hatchback follows next year). This is the car they have pinned their hopes on, to get the volumes in a country where car sales have been shooting through the roof.
While Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Tata, Ford and even General Motors have accelerated their activities in the country, Toyota has been slow and late in bringing in a mass-market model.

But try telling them that and they say that they cannot be hurried. They set their own pace. Well, that comes out of some sort of confidence, I would say. It’s the same sort of confidence they had when they introduced the Qualis in the country — all of us knew it was a dated vehicle, but that did not stop us from buying it, right? Even though it was a dinosaur in automotive terms, it was the best machine in its category. So: is the Etios worth the wait? Let’s find out what the Toyota for India is all about

2011 Toyota Sienna LE Review

2011-02-25T07:59:00.000-08:00

The minivan’s advent in the ‘80s was sparked by Chrysler’s Caravan and Voyager twins, and they were powered by a 4-cylinder engine. Young and not-so-young families scooped up the 7-passenger, K-car derived wagons like hot cakes, despite its 96-horsepower mill. Competitors soon followed.

The new Sienna is two feet longer than a ‘80s Toyota Van, one foot longer than a ‘90s Previa. (Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com)

And then, it happened. Like every other vehicle segment, minivans got bigger. And bigger. And bigger, to the point where even a 3.0-litre V6 engine seems overworked. Soccer Moms probably got tired of paying for $50 fill-ups, because the minivan had gotten big to the point where they could hardly be called mini. Oh yeah, we also fell in love with SUVs which, ironically, also required $50 fill-ups at the time.

And despite the size increase, a minivan still carries 7 passengers, sometimes 8. The latest-generation Sienna, introduced last year, is two feet longer than the ‘80s Toyota Van and one foot longer than the ‘90s Previa. One thing it has in common with its predecessors—at least the specific Sienna I’m driving this week—is that it’s powered by a 4-cylinder engine.

You’re kidding, you say? Nope. Obviously, a V6 is still the way to go for most buyers, but Toyota is trying to prove that you can get decent fuel economy out of a minivan. The 2.7-litre four develops 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and it’s managed by a 6-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode.

Off the cuff, I must say that I was expecting the 4,189-lb weight of our Sienna tester to take its toll on straight-line performance. I was wrong. We clocked a 0 to 100 km/h time of 8.5 seconds which, ironically, is quicker than the V6-powered minivans entered in the AJAC’s 2011 Car of the Year competition, the 248-hp Honda Odyssey (9.2) and the 266-hp Sienna (8.8).

The base Sienna is equipped with a 187-horsepower, 2.7-litre 4-cylinder and a 6-speed automatic.

Toyota Motor Corporation

2011-02-25T07:56:00.000-08:00

Toyota Motor Corporation (Japanese: トヨタ自動車株式会社 Toyota Jidōsha KK^?,IPA: [toꜜjota]^[4]) TYO: 7203, LSE: TYT, NYSE: TM, commonly known simply asToyota and abbreviated as TMC, is a multinational automaker headquartered in Toyota, Aichi, Japan. In 2009, Toyota Motor Corporation employed 71,116 people worldwide (total Toyota 320,808).^[3] TMC is the world's largest automobile manufacturer by sales^[5]^[6] and production.^[7]

The company was founded by Kiichiro Toyoda in 1937 as a spinoff from his father's companyToyota Industries to create automobiles. Three years earlier, in 1934, while still a department of Toyota Industries, it created its first product, the Type A engine, and, in 1936, its first passenger car, the Toyota AA. Toyota Motor Corporation group companies are Toyota (including the Scion brand), Lexus, Daihatsu and Hino Motors,^[8] along with several "non-automotive" companies.^[9] TMC is part of the Toyota Group, one of the largest conglomerates in the world.

Toyota Motor Corporation is headquartered in Toyota City, Aichi and in Tokyo.^[10] In addition to manufacturing automobiles, Toyota provides financial services through its Toyota Financial Services division and also builds robots.