Finally, we're days away from Toyota's official FT-86 unveiling at the Tokyo Motor show, but they've released new pictures and even a test drive video ahead of the event to whet the appetite of fans. This model will be offered in: Satin White Pearl, Sterling Silver Metallic, Dark Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Lightning Red, Orange Metallic, and Galaxy Blue Silica. Click here for more pictures. Continue reading for a video.
[via FT86Club]
While the US will be getting Toyota's FT-86, the GT-86 is headed to Europe next year. Powered by a 2.0L boxer engine with D4-S injection that produces 197hp, this sport compact can be mated to "either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission; the manual offers quick, precise shifts using a tactile, short-throw lever; the automatic transmission can be controlled using paddle shifts mounted on the steering wheel." Video after the break. Click here for more pictures.
Both the powertrain and the driving position have been set as low and as far back as possible to achieve the best balance: the car has a near-perfect 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution. The flat-four engine format and the driver's hip point - the lowest of any current Toyota production model - together give the GT 86 an ultra-low centre of gravity, at just 475mm.[via Autoblog]
Unlike its predecessor, the 2012 Toyota Camry "is the first Camry to be offered in the U.S. without a manual transmission, as demand for the manual was low and dealers preferred not to stock them; the U.S. Camry is standard with a 6-speed Automatic transmission, with all SE models having sports paddle shifters for manual shifts." Video review after the break. Click here for more pictures. Here's the bottom line:
In the end, the seventh generation sedan remains all Camry, through and through. There are absolutely no surprises here, and that simple fact will likely be enough to keep the model ahead of invading hordes, especially as Toyota fully expects half of 2012 Camry buyers to be former owners of the model.[via Autoblog]
No, this isn't the FT-86, but rather an entirely new Toyota Supra concept by Andreas Fougner. It features "that famous bug-eyed, twin-turbo 3.0-litre hero of the 90s capable of embarrassing more expensive machinery." Click here to see more. Continue reading to see the previous-generation Toyota Supra take on a Lamborghini Gallardo.
[via Top Gear]
We have seen the future of sport compacts, and it's the Toyota FT-86 II, or at least once the production model is released. Unfortunately, there's no word yet on what upgrades enthusiasts can expect. Video after the break. Click here for more pictures.
[via Autoblog]
Toyota recently selected TechEBlog to participate in their "100 Cars for Good" program, which salutes do-gooders by giving 100 vehicles to organizations in need of one. Continue reading for our full overview and a video.
Hot on the heels of the FT-86 is Toyota's GRMN Hybrid Concept II. At 3300-pounds, its "mid-mounted gasoline engine and all-wheel-drive system should be exceptionally well balanced and more than capable of getting all of them 295 horses (245 hp from the V6 engine and 50 hp added by the electric motor) to the ground." No word yet on pricing or availability.
"Toyota is coy about production plans - it will watch fan reaction before making any decisions." We say, don't bet on the GRMN Hybrid showing up on dealer lots in the near future but if it does, go ahead and ask for a test drive.[via Autoblog]
The Scion FR-S concept, which looks suspiciously like a Toyota FT-86, made its debut at the New York Auto Show this week. A production version "would sport a 2.0-liter boxer engine of unspecified power tweaked with a Toyota direct injection system, paired with six-speed transmissions of either manual or automatic stirring." Click here for more pictures. Continue reading for a video.
The FR-S Concept is layered in rich coats of Code Red, the appropriately named color that consists of a custom blend of candy and a developmental additive from BASF called Mearlite SSQ.[via Wired - Jalopnik]
Google recently demonstrated its self-driving car at the TED 2011 conference in Long Beach, and the coolest part? Well, the "incessant beeping from the Toyota's traction control as it blasts around the makeshift autocross course." Videos after the break.
[via Translogic - SearchEngineland]
Makela Auto Tuning gives us an inside look at how they built a 1984 Ex works WRC rally car Toyota Celica Turbo Group B from start to finish. Believe it or not, "everything on this car has been restored to as-new condition with meticulous detail, right down to hand painted dials on the gauges." Click here for more pictures. Continue reading to see it in-action.
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