- SA debut for all-new Corolla
- New Etios Sport limited edition model
- Extra kit for Toyota 86
- Upgrades for 2014 Hilux range
- Refreshed 2014 Fortuner
- Radical new looks for 2014 Prado
Toyota returns to the Johannesburg International Motor Show (JMS) with an original stand featuring origami-inspired, wave design elements, following the brand’s new global direction for stand design.
Striking in hues of white and silver and demarcated into various zones highlighting the marque’s QDR (Quality, Reliability and Durability), hybrid leadership and fun-to-drive persona, the Toyota stand is an attentive play of technological references, where major debuts and cutting-edge concepts mingle with tried and tested models to underscore the brand’s leading position on the local motoring stage.
All-new Toyota Corolla
The undisputed star of the exhibition area is the all-new Corolla, a logical evolution of the world’s favourite car and a perennial SA bestseller that, in its 47 years of life, has always been synonymous with functional design, comfort, space, reliability and value.
The new Corolla, which goes on sale locally in the first quarter of 2014, is all this and more: a brand rich in strong rational and emotional value, which has won over more than 40 million drivers worldwide (close to 1 million have been sold in SA alone), it now adds the all-important element of excitement to the successful formula.
With the 11th generation, the Corolla has reached full maturity. Epitomising the kaizen philosophy, it takes a further qualitative leap in terms of appointments, dynamics and practicality, and making its appearance with an edgy, modern and harmonious design. This will ensure that it retains its segment leader status, a position it has held for the past 32 years.
Styling
Corolla is the latest recipient of Toyota’s “Keen Look” brand identity which is characterised by a thrusting nose, prominent chrome grille fins extending into the headlight clusters and bold air intakes. The overall effect is a sleeker, more assertive visage.
The rear of the Corolla mirrors the frontal design whilst the wide tail light clusters are connected by a chrome license plate trim for a cleaner, more prestigious appearance. Enhancing this is the C-pillar, which features a longer sloping angle that blends into the top plane of the boot lid. A tapered cabin in conjunction with a wide body gives the new Corolla a strong, hunkered down posture.
In profile, crisp character lines score the flanks of the new Corolla while vertically asymmetrical door handles (only previously seen on Lexus models) have been sculpted into the body.
Interior
The big news is that the length of the vehicle has been extended by 75mm, the width by 15mm and the wheelbase by an impressive 100mm. The height on the other hand has been reduced by 5mm, for a sleeker profile and a lower centre of gravity.
Thanks to the generous increase in wheelbase length coupled with a front seatback that has been ‘slimmed’ down by 10mm and the rear seat hip point moved back by 75mm, the new generation Corolla will have the best in class rear legroom for its passengers.
In addition to this, the space between the centre console and rear seat has been increased by 100mm whilst the centre rear passenger floor has been made flatter by re-routing exhaust pipes and therefore ensuring comfort for all passengers.
Boot space has also improved. This enhanced practicality stems from the fact that the wheel arches are now less intrusive due to the wheelbase being extended and, therefore, allowing four golf bags to be carried in the boot.
A sportier driving position has been achieved by extending seat height adjustment, improving seat slide adjustment range as well as reducing the steering column angle by 2 degrees. In addition to these adjustments, the seats themselves feature a longer cushion with an ergonomically curved front edge for enhanced driver comfort on long journeys and side bolsters optimised for greater holding performance.
From a purely aesthetic point of view, the all-new interior revolves around iconic dynamism which is all about clean-cut, elegant and uncluttered styling that reinforces the spaciousness of the cabin.
The horizontally orientated dashboard allows for the intuitive operability of all switchgear and instrumentation which enhances the safety of the driver and passengers as distractions from the road are minimised.
Vehicle occupants are treated to class-leading quietness through the reduction of both engine and environmental noise entering the cabin thanks to various elements such as the acoustic windshield, dash inner silencer and fender separator.
Increased use of high-tensile steel throughout the body allows for reduced thickness and optimisation of structural panels, minimisation of parts as well as the downsizing of certain parts, has led to a 5.7kg weight reduction with no detriment to overall rigidity. In fact, overall body rigidity has been enhanced thanks to a number of measures but most notably by increasing the number of spot-welds.
When it comes to appointments, Corolla will be the new C-segment benchmark with four trim grades (names to be disclosed closer to launch) to choose from, catering to all tastes including those with a sportier palate. The mid-grade package, for example, will offer the greatest value for money and be available across all engine derivatives. Back monitor, display audio, full leather seats / steering wheel, steering switches and 16-inch alloys are just some of the niceties that will come standard on these models.
Under the skin
The front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension system of the current Corolla has been carried over to the new model, but with some significant revisions including a larger diameter shock absorber cylinder for the front suspension with damping forced tuned to optimise stability and ride comfort. Flattering the latter, there has been reduction in the coil spring rate. The rear torsion beam suspension has also come in for some fettling including reduced coil spring rates and re-tuned dampers.
A peek under the bonnet reveals a full range of powerplants including:
- A 1.3-litre option with 73kW of power and 128Nm of torque. This will be Corolla’s entry level engine, ideally suited to fleets and those customers where fuel consumption is paramount.
- An all-new 1.4-litre Turbodiesel (66kW and 205Nm) is a real eye-opener, offering levels of refinement coupled with surprising urge for a small capacity engine. It will be the most affordable diesel model available within C segment.
- The 1.6-litre engine (90kW and 154Nm) is carried over from the current Corolla, however improvements have been made to the fuel consumption and C02 emission figures
- Lastly, a 1.8-litre engine with 103kW of power and 173Nm of torque has been adopted as the flagship engine.
There will be a choice of transmissions including six-speed manual box options across all engines as well as a new Multidrive transmission choice for the 1.6 and 1.8. Multidrive will not only offer improved fuel consumption but will enhance the overall driving sensation compared to previous transmissions found in other vehicles through a wider transmission ratio band and more responsive ‘gear’ changes. With reference to the latter, Toyota engineers have adopted seven stepped “gears” or shift points into the acceleration and deceleration curves with mild shift-shocks which enables the new Multidrive transmission to mimic familiar characteristics of more traditional automatic gearboxes. Further, a sports driving mode is offered that delivers a more dynamic driving experience with software that alters the shift points as well as the electric power steering.
Toyota is targeting a 5-star EuroNCap rating for the new Corolla and is set to achieve this thanks to a comprehensive active and passive safety package that includes a revised ABS braking system, a high-strength cabin which employs extensive use of high-tensile steel, a full complement of airbags (a minimum of four, going up to a maximum of seven) as well as some new features such as Whiplash Injury Lessening front seats.
Two models will be showcased at JMS – the 1.8 Multidrive in high grade and a 1.4 D in mid grade. More details on the 11th generation Toyota Corolla will be disclosed closer to the launch in 2014.
The rest of the JMS model line-up on the Toyota indoor stand is as follows:
- Aygo – ‘Regroomed’ less than a year ago, Toyota’s popular supermini boasts improved looks and kit as well as a realigned two-model line-up. Sporting the new smiling face of Toyota’s latest generation of small cars, Aygo is exclusively available in five-door format and comes in “Fresh” and range-topping “Wild” grade (the latter will be on display). Power steering, air conditioning, ABS with EBD and BAS as well as dual front airbags are just some of the standard items on the “Fresh” menu. The “Wild” gets an extra topping in the form of 14-inch alloys, front power windows, side airbags and remote central locking to mention just some of the extras.
- Etios – an instant success since it was introduced in May 2012, Toyota introduced a raft of upgrades for 2013. There are detailed alterations in the ‘fine print’, most of which focus on giving the 2013 Etios a more quality feel. Visual tweaks include a new grille design, body-colour door mirrors and handles across the range as well as a new exterior mirror. Not only is this feature aesthetically more flattering but the new design also enhances aerodynamic performance – aero stabilising fins on the outer mirror bases in particular contribute to ensuring handling stability and reducing wind noise. The rear end has also been refreshed courtesy of a new tail lamp design for both the hatch as well as the sedan.
Open the doors of the top-end Xs model in either hatch or sedan and you’ll notice that substantial improvements have been made in the seating department. The front seats have height adjustment for the driver’s side, additional cushioning, lots of under-thigh support and feature adjustable headrests. (The all-in-one front seats with integrated fixed headrests remain on the Xi models.) Another nice-to-have feature that has now been incorporated onto the standard menu for Xs variants is the Auto Up electric window function on the driver’s door. Move to the rear and again, you are greeted by a new-found plushness thanks to a re-profiled seat design. In addition, the rear seats get bigger fixed headrests. Other items that lift the ambience on both Xi and Xs grades include the icy blue backlighting for the central instrument cluster. There’s also an all-new 2-DIN Toyota audio system fitted as standard to Xs models. The ventilation controls on the Xs grade have been replaced by new controls that have chrome finishing and a pleasantly tactile feel. Ditto the gear lever knob which is more in keeping with the car’s character.
Two models will be on display: the Etios 1.5 XS sedan and the new limited edition Etios 1.5 Sport hatch which recently went on sale. Based on the XS hatch the Sport boasts a roof spoiler, 15-inch wheels, “Sport” badging and is available in four colours, one of which is Grey Metallic which is exclusive to this Sport edition. The Sport retails for R138 900, a small R7 900 premium over its more common sibling.
- Yaris – fine-tuned for 2013 to focus on the most popular models and increase the competitiveness of these variants, the Yaris is now available exclusively in five-door format. The revitalised Yaris range still features the planet-pleasing 51 kW 1.0- and 73 kW 1.3-litre petrol engines; the simplification of the variants to “1.0”, “1.3” and “1.3 CVT” reflects the new-look, three-model line-up. The 1.5 petrol-hybrid option remains the flagship and is badged “XS HSD” and “XR HSD” respectively (total system output of 74 kW, with low, 3.8 l/100 km fuel consumption).
The Yaris XR HSD will be on show and this model is loaded with kit including such niceties as Vehicle Stability Control with Hill Ascent Control, driver knee airbag, curtain Shield airbags, front and rear spoiler, projector headlamps, LED daytime running lights, keyless entry, automatic climate control, touch screen audio system, back monitor, Bluetooth compatibility, rain-sensing wipers, automatic light control system and electrochromatic rearview mirror.
- Auris – the bewitching, all-new 2013 Auris sporting sharper, more distinctive looks in XR HSD guise will also be on the Toyota stand. Sporting revisions that are much more than just skin deep, the whole package is lighter, the handling and steering are sweeter thanks to tweaks to the suspension and electric power steering and the car generally feels more nimble and responsive, but its trump card is that it rides exceptionally well, boasting a compliant ride that stands out in the C segment.
The Auris Hybrid shares the same dynamic exterior styling and extensive interior re-modelling introduced with the new Auris, however, hybrid models (in mid XS trim and high-grade XR guise) go a little further by incorporating unique detailing and extra kit to identify them as the flagships of the model range. The most noteworthy of these extras are the rear combination lamps featuring hybrid-only LED lights, 17-inch graphite alloy wheels (XR), Panoramic roof (XR), Simple Intelligent Park Assist (XR), Ice Grey leather dashboard inserts accompanied by full leather upholstery exclusive to the HSD XR as well as the adoption of a double wishbone rear suspension system and VSC up the ante in the handling stakes.
- Prius – no Toyota exhibit would be complete without the world’s best-selling hybrid, the Prius. Available in top-spec grade only, the Prius gets the Full Monty treatment – going green doesn’t mean you have to become an ascetic. Just look at the toys the Prius Exclusive offers on the standard menu: Toyota’s innovative touchscreen system for audio, multimedia connectivity, satellite navigation and Bluetooth plus a rear-view camera; linked to SatNav, the new Prius features Advanced Traffic Pattern Intelligence (feeds through the latest information on traffic conditions while en route); voice recognition for music search and play, and phone contacts search and call functions; Heads-Up Display projects key vehicle information on to the base of the windscreen, including vehicle speed, the Eco Drive Monitor and turn-by-turn navigation information; Hi-tech eight-speaker JBL audio system, with power-saving GreenEdge speaker technology; Water-repellent glass, dusk-sensing LED headlamps with washers, and an auto-dimming electrochromatic rear-view mirror; revised multi-information display with 3D imaging and new functionality including a monthly fuel consumption record, with a rolling archive of five months’ data, and an ECO savings calculator; Intelligent Park Assist – this amazing gizmo physically helps you park (parallel parking and alley docking) by steering the car into a viable parking space; Touch Tracer switches on the steering wheel let the driver control the audio system, air conditioning and the Eco Drive Monitor without having to look down or take his or her hands off the wheel.
But the crème de la crème of these ‘sci-fi’ features is without a doubt the Solar Panel Roof (with standard electric sunroof) – it keeps the car cool when parked in the sun by activating the climate control system and forcing fresh air into the cabin. Please note, that these are just a tip of the gadgets iceberg… The new Prius also comes with keyless entry (incorporating remote aircon activation), full leather upholstery, multi-function steering wheel with several menu options, and an automatic climate control system incorporating a pollen-cleansing function to mention just a few of the comfort features.
- Toyota 86 – the car that seriously upped Toyota’s fun factor will of course be at JMS. Here you have a car that’s priced at the same level as a hot hatch but manages to dish up classic sports car delights – engine at the front, driven wheels at the back, fast throttle responses and quick meaty steering – without the need to be travelling at warp speed to enjoy them. In fact, the 86 goads you to drive it flat out as often as is humanly possible and the good news is that you can pilot it that way, 90 per cent of the time. You’d have to fork out vast sums of money to get something to rival the handling prowess of the 86, and then you would have to be going at twice the speed to feel the incredible adjustability of the chassis. Instead, for R315 300 you can still get behind the wheel of the Toyota 86, a car that re-defines how we view the bona fide sports car.
Based on an entirely new platform, the 86 has a low, highly aerodynamic bodyshell stretched tight over the engineering hard points, making it the world’s most compact four-seat sports car design. It boasts the world’s only combination of a compact (147kW / 2.0), front-mounted, naturally aspirated, free-revving, horizontally opposed ‘boxer’ petrol engine and rear-wheel drive. This unique powertrain format combines with light mass, low inertia and a low centre of gravity to realise the best possible power-to-weight ratio. These attributes give the 86 lively, accessible performance, highly engaging, readily exploitable dynamic abilities with minimal electronic intrusion, and maximum driving pleasure.
In response to customer feedback, Toyota has introduced a number of running changes to enhance the 86’s appeal even more. These include a new touch-screen display audio system with Bluetooth functionality, a moulded boot mat as well as daytime running lights and a subtle body-coloured bootlid spoiler – the latter two items are exclusive to the two High models.
- RAV4 – now in its fourth iteration, Toyota has put its superior experience to good use in the all-new 2013 RAV4. It has evolved both stylistically and dynamically; not only does it sport dramatic lines and a more mature interior, but it also offers a more engaging driving experience i.e. it blends all the best bits from its predecessors and adds a pleasing quality twist to proceedings while retaining the original model’s commitment to fun. In response to the continuing evolution of the compact SUV market and the demand for ever greater fuel and emissions efficiency, the new RAV4 offers customers a wider engine line-up than ever before, averaging an 11% reduction in CO2 emissions across the range.
Available in a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and CVT (Multidrive S) transmissions, the powertrain line-up now comprises a 107kW 2.0 litre Valvematic petrol engine in two-wheel drive format mated to a choice of 6-speed manual or Multidrive S (Toyota’s highly-advanced Continuously Variable Transmission system) transmissions; a 110kW 2.2 litre D-4D diesel engine teamed up with a six-speed manual and the all-wheel drive capabilities of Toyota’s AWD System; and a 132kW 2.5 litre VVT-i petrol unit married to an all-new six-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
- FJ Cruiser – inspired by the original FJ40 produced in the 60’s, Land Cruiser’s modern take on this classic, the FJ Cruiser, has been a surprise hit on the local SUV sales chart. Now with the recent addition of several hard core off-road enhancements the latest version of the FJ Cruiser is invincible. These most recent updates include the addition of a second tank that more than doubles its fuel-load capacity to 159 litres. The adoption of a Crawl Control function is the other big news – a speed-selector dial on the new overhead console provides the choice of five speeds. The system automatically maintains a low uniform vehicle speed uphill and downhill by controlling both engine output and brake hydraulic pressure, allowing the driver to concentrate fully on steering the vehicle. It increases vehicle stability in extreme four-wheel driving conditions by minimising wheel spin and tyre lock-up. The system has the added benefit of reducing potential damage to the vehicle, by smoothly controlling vehicle speed over rugged terrain. It reduces load on the drivetrain by smoothly controlling engine output and brake application. For 2014 the FJ Cruiser also gains newly designed 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels with the latest upgrade.
- Prado – Toyota is poised to launch a thoroughly facelifted Land Cruiser Prado range with improved safety features, better third-row seat access and higher interior and exterior specification. Important safety upgrades across the range will include trailer sway control and emergency brake signal. VX models add blind spot monitoring as well as tyre inflation warning. Trailer sway control gives Land Cruiser Prado owners an additional layer of confidence and control when towing. Land Cruiser Prado’s aggressive new face draws on several structural elements from its unique design heritage; a further evolution of the classic Prado grille and a vertical, two-step construction accentuating the new Toyota’s rugged appearance. A comprehensive interior upgrade combines new switchgear and instrumentation with enhanced trim and ornamentation, improved second and third row seat designs with new fabrics, and new interior colour schemes. Land Cruiser Prado debuted in South Africa in the 90’s and is now midway through its fourth generation. It is offered with the choice of 4.0-litre petrol and 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engines. More details on the new Toyota Prado will be disclosed closer to the launch in November.
- Hilux and Fortuner – for 2014, SA’s homegrown, bestseller siblings – Hilux and Fortuner – come in for a spot of surgery. Most of the changes take place indoors with both models becoming the recipients of the new black-hued dashboard (as opposed to the outgoing grey palette). To complement the new trim colour, Fortuner upholstery changes to black leather for the 3.0 and 4.0 variants whilst the 2.5 variants gets matching black fabric. Another upgrade applies to the all-new multimedia system. Some of the features of this new system include photo viewer, video/DVD playback (when the vehicle is stationary), full-colour album art display and expanded interface categories for music downloads. In line with Fortuner 3.0 and 4.0 models, Hilux Double Cab 3.0 and 4.0 models now also get a back guide monitor as standard.
- FT-86 Open Concept – Toyota will present its new FT-86 Open concept for the first time on African soil. Created to test the water for the possible introduction of a convertible version of its globally acclaimed 86 sports coupe, the concept has been designed to deliver the lively, highly engaging and accessible performance and dynamic abilities of the 86 with the added appeal of top-down motoring. The show car has a special pure bright white and navy blue colour scheme designed by Toyota Boshoku Milan Design (TBMD) to capture the spirit and atmosphere of Milan, one of the world’s leading centres for fashion and design. The bodywork is finished in white, contrasting with the blue of the roof. Inside, the perforated white leather upholstery is layered over a navy blue backing, with golden yellow accent stitching and carpets.
The FT-86 Open uses the same platform and powertrain as the 86. As with the production 86, it features MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension to give a direct handling feel, instant response and a high level of control. The electric power steering has a quick 13.1:1 ratio that’s on a par with racing models, while large ventilated disc brakes fore and aft deliver excellent pedal feel for car control finesse. The 86 has a near-perfect 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution, helping deliver ideal response to even subtle steering, throttle and brake inputs, and a low, 460 mm centre of gravity. While introducing a fabric roof is likely to bring the centre of gravity even lower, further engineering analysis will be needed to match the balance of the coupe. The 86 tips the scales at only 1257kg, thanks to comprehensive weight-saving measures, giving the car a power-to-weight ratio of around 117 kW per tonne. Engineering the cabriolet to be “weight-neutral” relative to the coupe will be a key area of study should Toyota decided to progress with the project.
- Le Mans TS030 Hybrid Replica – an exhibit that will come under the spotlight in the hybrid leadership zone is a replica of the ground-breaking TS030 Hybrid driven by Anthony Davidson, Sébastien Buemi and Stéphane Sarrazin which finished second at this year’s gruelling 24-hour Le Mans race. The 2013 TS030 Hybrid uses a revised version of the Toyota Racing hybrid system first used in 2012. The super capacitor-based system delivers 221kW of boost automatically, on top of the 390kW generated by a 3.4 litre, normally-aspirated V8 petrol engine. Ahead of the new regulations due to be enforced in 2014, the team has fine-tuned the powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics to improve power, efficiency, management of component usage and reliability.
