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Toyota F1 image

In what may not be too much of a surprise, Toyota has announced that it will be leaving Formula One racing at the end of the 2009 season. Toyota’s announcement follows similar announcements from other automakers that are exiting motorsports in order to save money.

Toyota has been very active in F1 racing in recent years, and the automaker has benefited from the research and development associated with the racing championship series. However, the abrupt economic changes were cited for Toyota’s reconsideration of its motor-sports activities.

Fans such as those visiting Toyota Shelbyville will no doubt be disappointed by Toyota’s withdrawal from F1 racing. The automaker has earned 13 podium and 87 point finishes since 2002. Despite its exit, Toyota Financing Tacoma says Toyota acknowledges that fans of the Panasonic Toyota Racing team remain highly appreciated by the automaker.

Although Toyota is leaving F1 behind for now, the automaker is by no means is abandoning performance and advanced research. An example of Toyota’s performance-orientated R&D is the all-new Lexus LFA super car. According to used car dealers Concord, Toyota also recently showed off an all-new sporty rear-wheel drive coupe that was co-developed with Subaru.

Despite Toyota’s exit from racing, the automaker appears to have performance still very much at the forefront of product development.

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Although F1 racing fans will be disappointed by the news, Toyota motorsports will continue. 

Toyota Camry image

Toyota is preparing to recall nearly 3.8 million U.S. vehicles, its largest ever recall, to fix floor mats that could interfere with gas pedals. Due to the severity of the issue, U.S. regulators have urged consumers to remove the driver-side floor mats altogether.

Toyota’s massive floor mat recall was initiated by an accident in San Diego that led to the death of four people. At Albuquerque Toyota, personnel said the accident prompted further investigation that lead to the discovery that the floor mats had been caught on the accelerator.

The floor mats in question are on the Toyota Camry years 2007-2010, Toyota Avalon years 2005-2010, Toyota Prius years 2004-2009, Toyota Tacoma years 2005-2010, Toyota Tundra years 2007-2010. Lexus models are also subject to the recall including the Lexus ES 350 years 2207-2010, and the Lexus IS 250/350 years 2006-2010.

The Japanese automaker’s last recall involved nearly 900,000 vehicles says Used Cars Bastrop due to a faulty component in the steering system. That recall was Toyota’s largest until now.

Toyota has urged drivers to remove the driver-side floor mats. Toyota dealers Los Angeles said that more information regarding the recall can be found on the Toyota website.

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Keep track of Toyota quality issues on this Toyota blog. 

Toyota Yaris hybrid image

Just when it looked as though the hybrid vehicle competition between Toyota and Honda couldn’t get more intense, Toyota will soon be offering a new hybrid version of its sub compact Toyota Yaris. With the Honda Insight priced lower than the third generation Prius, Toyota will soon offer an inexpensive hybrid based on the subcompact Yaris.

The new gasoline-electric Toyota Yaris will likely be the lowest priced hybrid in the automaker’s lineup. Although Toyota Financing Washington DC says the Prius has long held the position of the highest selling hybrid on the road, Honda has claimed the title of the most affordable hybrid in America, which Toyota hopes to take away from the automaker when the Yaris hybrid becomes available in 2011.

Toyota’s reputation in the hybrid market has largely been untarnished which Toyota Service North Dartmouth proudly points out, despite the plethora of hybrid vehicles from other manufactures. However, Toyota of Bastrop suggests that the decision to move aggressively into smaller and lower-priced hybrid vehicles is an indication that Toyota is concerned of its closest rival and its claims of being the lowest priced hybrid on the road.

Honda launched the 2010 Insight at the same time as the 2010 Toyota Prius. Already the both models have seen popularity in Japan and here in the U.S. according to Los Angeles Toyota dealers, but the competition is likely to heat up even more very soon. By the time Toyota launches the Yaris hybrid, Honda will likely be launching the Honda Fit hybrid, which should be even cheaper than the Insight.

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Read about the latest Toyota hybrid technology on Toyota Dealer News.

Toyota Camry Solara Convertible image

The Toyota Camry Solara was an attempt to sell a stylish two-door version of popular Camry sedan. Unfortunately, Toyota’s Camry Solara has faced difficulties, and the Coupe has already been axed from the lineup. Following the demise of the Coupe, Toyota will officially be getting rid of the convertible model as well.

Car buying habits have changed dramatically, and one Los Angeles Toyota car dealer says that Toyota has cited poor demand for the Camry Solara’s demise. However, for those interested in getting this drop-top Toyota, chances are you won’t have a problem finding one suggest Toyota Tacoma San Diego dealers as inventories of this model remain healthy. The recently released Lexus convertible will now assume the role of Toyota’s only convertible offering.

The Toyota Camry Solara Convertible was first introduced in December of 2008. While the Solara has had a history of strong sales, Utah Toyota says the current market has made it difficult for a midsize coupe and convertible to maintain steady success. In its place at the Kentucky plant where the Solara Convertible has been built, will be increased production of the Venza crossover, which the leading Toyota Accessory Store says will be a wise allocation.

Toyota isn’t the only automaker letting go of once-popular convertible models. These cuts have been seen with the Honda S2000, the Pontiac G6 and Solstice, and the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Perhaps cuts like the aging Chrysler PT Cruiser are surprising, but it’s certainly evidence of auto market place when even Honda and Toyota are unable to find demand for some products.

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Read about new Toyota products on this blog.  

2010 Toyota Prius

Toyota has experienced plenty of ups and downs this past year year. First, Toyota became the world’s largest automaker, a title it gained as a result of General Motors’ downfall. Now, Toyota has been hit hard by steep losses in Japan and in North America, forcing a bold restructuring throughout management personnel.

With financial troubles deeper than expected, Toyota’s relatively new title of largest automaker could move on to Volkswagen should sales fail to improve. Already Toyota is making additional production cuts and will also be cutting positions in senior management.

Changes at Toyota are coming following the largest operating loss in 71 years. Next month, the grandson of Toyota’s found, Akio Toyoda, will become the new CEO and will attempt to restructure the auto giant and streamline its operations. But with adverse economic factors weighing heavily on all automakers, Providence Toyota recognizes that the new Toyota CEO has plenty of challenges ahead.

In the short term, Toyota will be replacing about forty percent of upper level management. In addition, Toyota will be focusing on North American sales and manufacturing operations and is expected to align marketing, sales, and production much closer than ever before.

Toyota is reeling from its worst financial year ever, even despite having high-quality and relatively popular products. With billions of dollars lost, Toyota is eager to maintain its edge in a market that is continues to face hardships. As cost cutting initiatives get underway, Toyota Service Lexington expects to sales pickup. The 2010 Toyota Prius in San Diego for example is highly anticipated and should deliver plenty of demand as consumers remain smitten with hybrid technology.

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Stay tuned for news of the all-new 2010 Prius right here.

Toyota Operations to Change

As a direct result of difficult losses, Toyota plans to consolidate its operations, pulling sales, marketing, and manufacturing operations under one executive. This move will radically change organization of the automaker’s U.S. operations in an attempt to make the company perform more aggressively amid slowing sales.

Reports suggest that Toyota’s management is already close with all aspects of U.S. operations, which Akron Toyota dealers says is an accurate assessment. However, the current organization structure may not be enough help the automaker save money amid slumping new car demand. One model that needs to be addressed is the Toyota Tundra. Diminishing truck sales have hurt the Tundra, and production at its Texas-based plant has been cut a number of times already.

Despite having a fresh new design that has appealed to truck buyers among Albany Toyota dealers and other retail locations, the Toyota Tundra has faced a slow but steady decline in sales. As a result, Toyota has been losing money on each Tundra truck sold. Additionally, the Tundra is manufactured in an all-new facility in San Antonio that was over budget when it opened its doors. To make matters worse, the overpriced facility has yet to reach full capacity has already been idle for several months.

New manufacturing facilities have also been in the works for other vehicles, such as the Toyota Highlander and the Toyota Prius. The latter has remained in high demand in many parts of the country according to Tustin Used Toyota, especially leading up to its 2010 model year redesign. However, with reduced overall demand for both SUVs and hybrids, such efforts have been put into question. While the reorganization is not official, many questions remain regarding Toyota’s organization in the U.S.

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Look for a number changes to occur for Toyota USA operations soon.

Toyota Dependability

Toyota has long held a firm standing on J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Studies, and 2009 is no different. Toyota has yet again dominated this study a well as other recent third-part studies that recognize Toyota as a leader in producing dependable, reliable vehicles.

Jim Lentz, President of Toyota Motor Sales, USA, said he was, “proud that TMS vehicles garnered more segment awards than any other automaker, including the Lexus LS 430, which at 61, has the lowest PP100 in the entire industry.”

The Vehicle Dependability Study is perhaps more important this year than in recent years according to Used Cars Long Beach. With the weak economy, car buyers are looking for value above all else when shopping for a car. Monroe Toyota dealers say this fact alone has made perceived dependability and reliability important factors for car buyers and automakers alike.

Toyota has said that its commitment to customer satisfaction and offering quality products is paramount, and the latest Toyota segment winners certainly solidify those claims. Anaheim used Toyota dealers are particularly proud that Toyota vehicles have recently had a string of successes from various third-party studies which have cited Toyota vehicles as having outstanding reliability and safety and even lower repair rates. Hopefully Toyota can maintain such standings as it continues its status as the world’s largest automaker. With firm firm reliability, and exciting new models on the way such as the 2010 Prius, Lexington Used Cars believes this won't be too much of a challenge.

TOYOTA MOTOR SALES SEGMENT AWARD WINNERS

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Press releases, Toyota reviews, and much more right here on this blog.

2010 Toyota Prius hybrid

Toyota is taking strides to cut production even further in North America, as new car demand reach historic lows. While Toyota hopes to retain jobs during the production cutback, the automaker is hoping that such moves will align manufacturing with slumping demand in the US.

Management at Toyota is hoping that the production cuts will make the company even stronger in the long run. Already, Toyota has cut production, while streamlining operations at manufacturing plants, and created a hiring freeze. Plants no longer offer overtime and capital spending has been suspended. While dealers such as Garden Grove Toyota dealers brace for sweeping changes, it is hoped that the aggressive cost cutting moves will help the automaker weather the current slump in auto sales.

Additionally, Toyota plans on taking steps to help make their production process smoother. These steps include reducing work or pay weeks, eliminating bonuses, cutting wage increases, and cutting executive pay, and while these steps may seem drastic, Toyota and other automakers are in a position where swift action is necessary to prevent devastating losses. While pay and hours are likely to be reduced, Tustin Toyota dealers stress that Toyota is working hard to keep employees working, even if it means making cuts in other ways.

This year, Toyota hopes to retain its dominance as the world’s largest automaker. New cars such as the all-new 2010 Toyota Prius are likely to be important models in an effort to spur new car sales. The Prius in particular has been a sales leader in the hybrid vehicle segment, and is expected to see challenges this year from Honda and the new Insight hybrid. In addition to emphasizing hybrid vehicles, dealers are busy promoting Toyota truck accessories, car parts, service, and other profit centers. 

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More Toyota dealer news and car reviews can be read on this blog.  

Toyota Prius image

Toyota hopes to show its prowess in the hybrid market by launching the all-new Toyota Certified Used Hybrid program. Already Toyota offers a Toyota Certified Used Vehicles program, but the new Toyota Certified Hybrid Program stand to provide added inspection and warranty protection specifically for Toyota’s hybrid models.

Hybrids are no longer a new technology, and hybrid models are increasingly available as pre-owned models at Tacoma used Toyota dealers. As such, Toyota wants to offer potential used hybrid shoppers the same quality that other certified buyers receive.

Toyota’s new certified hybrid program is the first of its kind. It was designed to drive additional used hybrid sales and improve the level of service it provides to its customer base. The has been well-received among dealers, especially Durango Used Cars whose customers have substantial interest in hybrid Toyota models. Among the added benefits from buying a vehicle within this program is a three month, 3,000 mile comprehensive warranty, a 7 year, or 100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, and also a roadside assistance plan. This is on top of an eight year, 100,000 mile factory warranty that comes with the factory hybrid batteries. Overall, the program puts greater assurances on Toyota parts and components that pre-owned shoppers otherwise would not have.

In addition, the Toyota Certified Used Hybrid program ensures the vehicle undergoes a rigorous inspection. The inspection program includes 14 additional inspection points beyond that of the 160-point inspection that comes with other certified models.

Many potential used car shoppers such as those at one Cleveland used car dealer will likely see plenty of value in the Toyota Certified Used Hybrid program. Offering the level of quality and peace of mind that is available with a new car, this unique program will surely be a huge hit among consumers looking for fuel efficiency in an affordable package.

For more information about the all-new Toyota Certified Used Hybrid program, check out the press release below.

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Toyota Introduces Certified Used Hybrid Program

TORRANCE, Calif. (January 20, 2009) – In an effort to attract new buyers to the hybrid market, Toyota today launched the all-new Toyota Certified Used Hybrid (TCUH) program, an extension of the Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUV) brand which provides added inspection and warranty coverage on certified used Toyota hybrids.

“The program is a great way to increase awareness of certified used hybrid vehicles,” said TCUV Marketing Manager, Steve Gallagher. “As more hybrids enter the used vehicle marketplace, Toyota Certified Hybrids offer high-quality options to customers interested in purchasing these fuel-efficient vehicles.”

As the industry’s first dedicated certified pre-owned program for hybrid vehicles, TCUH was designed to drive sales of certified used hybrids while expanding Toyota’s customer base for these types of vehicles.

Customers benefit from additional inspection and warranty coverage on Toyota hybrids within the program. Each vehicle comes with the three-month/3,000-mile comprehensive warranty, seven-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and roadside assistance plan offered on traditional TCUV models. The program also brings added awareness to a pre-existing eight-year/100,000-mile factory hybrid battery warranty. The TCUH quality insurance inspection also includes 14 additional inspection points beyond the current TCUV 160-point quality assurance inspection. This expanded 174-point Toyota Certified Hybrid inspection includes examination of key hybrid components, such as the hybrid transaxle, control modules and battery.

The Toyota Certified program combines the confidence of purchasing a new vehicle with the value of a used vehicle to provide a "like new" ownership experience. Toyota certified used vehicles offer consumers a smart alternative to traditional used car options and give them the peace of mind they seek when purchasing a used vehicle.

About Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion. Established in 1957, TMS markets products and services through a network of more than 1,400 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers. Toyota directly employs over 36,000 people in the U.S. and sold more than 2.2 million vehicles in 2008. For more information about our company, please visit http://www.toyota.com.
 
About Toyota Certified Used Vehicles
 
Launched in 1996, the Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUV) program offers the next best thing to the purchase of a new Toyota. TCUV provides peace of mind in the purchase of a used vehicle that only a Toyota factory-backed certification program can offer. Since its inception, TCUV has sold over 2.4 million certified vehicles. Under TCUV, all vehicles undergo a minimum 160-point quality assurance inspection, including mechanical and appearance reconditioning. TCUV also offers a seven-year, 100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a seven-year, 100,000-mile 24-hour roadside assistance plan, a three-month, 3,000-mile comprehensive used car warranty and a CARFAX vehicle history report. Currently, over 93 percent of Toyota dealers offer vehicles under the TCUV program.

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As always, find more on Toyota hybrid news and more right here.

Toyota iQ

The Toyota iQ has just been named the Japan Car of the Year for 2008. The Toyota iQ, which unfortunately isn’t available in the United States yet, is an ultra compact car that may be able to give the Smart a run for its money.

Although not yet available here in the States, the Toyota iQ made an appearance at the LA Auto Show. While it’s not known for sure whether we’ll be able to get our hands on one any time soon, the iQ is rumored to be offered to US buyers as a Scion. Regardless, Used Cars Albuquerque and other dealers are excited see see the iQ domestically. The Toyota iQ will go on sale in Europe next year with a six-speed automatic transmission and a choice of gasoline and diesel engines.

Powering the Japanese-spec Toyota iQ is a three cylinder engine that produces 67 horsepower and 67 lb ft of torque. Although that may not be that impressive, the iQ’s 55 miles per gallon is, especially to buyers shopping at both Lewis Automotive and Spokane Toyota who rank fuel efficiency as a priority when purchasing a new car. In addition, this little car has plenty of amenities that should keep most buyers happy, including automatic air conditioning, a Smart Entry and Start system, rain-sensing wipers, and plenty more that add up to make this vehicle a little different than just your average econo-car. If the vehicle does end up as a Scion model, expect there to be plenty of genuine Toyota accessories available from TRD and other manufacturers to make this compact highly customizable.

For more information about the Toyota iQ and its features, check out the official press release below.

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World premiere of Toyota's new urban car: the iQ

• Production version of the Concept C ar iQ premiered
• 'J-Factor' underpins iQ design
• Six unique space-saving engineering innovations represent a milestone in Toyota's automotive engineering
• Revolutionary packaging concept provides ample space for a 3+1 seating configuration within a sub 3 metres length
• Small urban car with low emission engines and aerodynamics reduces environmental impact
• Manufacturing starts late 2008 with a global sales target of 100,000 vehicles for the first year of production

Design

World premiere of Toyota's new urban car: the iQ

Toyota is world-premiering the production design of the new iQ at the Geneva Motor Show. First shown as the Concept Car iQ at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show, the iQ will go into production during late 2008.

The new iQ is a sophisticated car, representing the ultimate refined urban mode of transportation. Thanks to its ingenious and revolutionary packaging it measures less than three metres in length, yet has a flexible interior space that allows up to three adults, plus a child or luggage to travel comfortably.

The name iQ is the best representation of what the car embodies. "i" stands for individuality, whilst at the same time also expressing "innovation" and "intelligence". "Q" stands for "quality" and also suggesting that its "cubic" stature gives a "cue" to new value and lifestyle.

The iQ delivers dynamism and stability despite its small size. It challenges conventional thinking through a design that is forward-looking, intelligent and energetic, while retaining clarity of purpose and function.

The marvel of the iQ's ingenuity is in its revolutionary packaging, which is the result of six space-saving but inter-linked engineering innovations that represent a break-through in Toyota's automotive vehicle development.

"The iQ story started a few years ago when we at Toyota began thinking of the environmental impact of automobiles. We came to the conclusion that, in order to ensure a sustainable future, there was a need for a radical change in vehicle packaging. We needed to create a break-through, away from the traditional belief that small is basic. Our answer to this is Toyota iQ," says Kazuo Okamoto, Executive Vice President, in charge of Research and Development at Toyota Motor Corporation.

The iQ is designed to cater for the needs of buyers who seek more than just urban mobility but demand space and refinement in an environmentally-friendly vehicle.

J-Factor design
The design of the new iQ has its origin in Japan with J-Factor influences at its core. Toyota explains J-Factor as that aspect of Japanese originality and quality that creates modern, attractive, and globally appealing products from the apparent disharmony and contradictory nature of its original components. Expressions such as 'small yet spacious', 'high-tech yet human' and 'emotional yet functional' are all examples of what Toyota calls J-Factor.

Although iQ is less than three metres in length, measuring 2,985mm precisely, it has a spacious interior. And while the ingenious packaging requires hi-tech solutions, the human appeal is in the requirement to meet intelligent urban transportation needs.

Drawing inspiration from J-Factor, Toyota has developed a unique design language called Vibrant Clarity. Vibrant Clarity is the key to answering the long-standing paradox of designing vehicles that are both energised and dynamic, but at the same time rational and ingenious. The word Vibrant represents a more forward-looking, vital nature that expresses the feeling of energy.

Clarity symbolises all that is fresh, clean and simple, stressing the rational aspect in the design equation - keeping the design crisp, the functionality intact and ensuring that the concept is easily understandable.This Vibrant Clarity design philosophy infuses cars with an emotional intensity that is uniquely identifiable as a Toyota.

The iQ contains three key elements of Vibrant Clarity design
Perfect imbalance of proportions: a simple and daring exterior with a strong contrast between the stable and robust stance provided by the iQ's width and the shortness of its overall length.

Integrated component architecture where each unit contributes to the overall design: the structure around the tyres forms part of the minimal front and rear overhangs, a synergy that conveys both strength and agility.

Freeform geometrics: the exterior surfaces are almost mathematical in their cleanliness and precision, but also possess movement and emotion to make the design fresh and contemporary.

Robust yet refined styling for the iQ's urban environment
The four wheels - placed at the extremities of each corner - give the iQ a self-assured 'super stance'. At just 2,985mm in length, but with a proportionally larger wheelbase of 2,000mm, the iQ is small in size, but unlike a small car possesses a confident on-road appearance.

The iQ's robustness is further enhanced by the tough-looking bumpers. Strong vertical lines define the rear view of the iQ, while the bold rear lamp lenses are divided into three segments by horizontal lines, which help underpin the iQ's strong presence. The iQ is fitted with 5-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels that confidently fill the bold wheel arches.

The exterior styling blends dynamism and stability: prominent crease lines define the high belt line while the V-line of the A-pillar creates tension across the wheel arches.
Smooth lines flow from the front bumpers, curve graciously up through the front pillars to meet the roof and sweep back down towards the rear hatch where they are replaced by edgier, well-defined lines.

From a rear three-quarter perspective the creative tension continues.
A seamless line runs from the edge of the roofline towards the B-pillar and curves around the deep rear glass area, before returning towards the rear hatch and then tailing off at the bold, geometrically-shaped wheel arches.

At the front of the car, smoked headlamp units are set deep into the bonnet and wings. Door mirrors with integrated turn indicators further reflect the iQ's refined urban appeal.

Techno-organic theme for interior styling
The 'on-the-edge' exterior styling is replicated in the iQ's refined interior architecture. By mathematically analysing and recreating the structural beauty of natural objects, Toyota has achieved a 'techno-organic' design which fuses geometric precision with inner beauty.

This is demonstrated in the floating 'V' centre console, which dominates the asymmetric dashboard. At the base of the V is a single dial that controls the functions of the air conditioning.

Situated within the arms of the V are cabin temperature controls with an LCD that displays airflow, twin face-level air vents and at the top a 5.8-inch colour touch screen satellite navigation display.

The V-design both separates and joins the two halves of the asymmetric dashboard design, while providing a visually appealing focus on the interior.

The steering wheel is flat-bottomed to provide the driver with greater legroom. Controls for audio are placed on the wheel to save space on the centre console and to offer a high-level of convenience for the driver.

Other techno-organic features include matt silver door handles with flowing manta-ray styling. While the ultra slim seatbacks are formed in a stylish one-piece moulding that enhances the edgy feel of the iQ and assist in freeing up additional passenger space.

A secret tray is neatly concealed below the rear seat, again providing more storage for passengers without sacrificing the cabin space. For more luggage capacity the 50/50 split rear seats can be separately folded flat to increase the available load area.

The interior is finished in rich chocolate-plum colour, which contrasts with the matt silver of the techno-organic architecture to provide an environment of urban sophistication.

Technology

Revolutionary engineering innovations create ingenious packaging solution
Creating more passenger space in such a compact vehicle was a key aim for Toyota's design team. The iQ's interior is surprisingly spacious. Six inter-linking engineering innovations are responsible for making this possible. Viewed together, these innovations represent a major milestone in Toyota's vehicle development.

To achieve such a milestone required a drastically changed mindset. The engineers had to reconsider the very locations of various vehicle components rather than simply re-designing parts to a smaller size.

The result is a true break-through in 'small yet spacious' packaging, which at the same time has been designed to meet the top 5-star safety rating of EURO NCAP.

The new Toyota iQ measures 2,985mm in length and 1,500mm in height, but the car's compact ingenuity lies in its comparatively lengthy wheelbase of 2,000mm.

Newly developed differential saves engine compartment space
A newly developed differential allows the iQ to be built with short front overhangs, which result in a gain of over 100mm of additional length inside the passenger cabin area when compared to the B-segment Yaris.

Toyota's ingenious solution to the differential is 3-fold: the under-bonnet area is made more compact; the front wheels can be placed at the very corners of the car, which drastically shortens the front overhang; and the passenger compartment can be increased.

Flat under-floor fuel tank with rear-angled shock absorbers
The design of the flat under-floor fuel tank has allowed the development of shorter rear overhangs, which contribute to the reduction of the car's overall length.

Historically, a flat tank was considered difficult to engineer successfully because of the variance in fuel surface levels depending on the angle of the car.

However, persistent engineering efforts to downsize and find the optimal placement of functional parts have resulted in a flat fuel tank that creates significant space savings.

Smaller heater/air conditioning unit saves space
Toyota engineers have managed to significantly reduce the size of the heater/air conditioning unit without sacrificing performance output.

As a result of the size reduction the passenger-side area of the asymmetric dashboard can be moved forward and towards the windscreen base freeing up additional cabin space.

Asymmetric dashboard design and sliding seat configuration create more space
The iQ's innovative asymmetric dashboard was designed to open up the passenger area.

The pushed-forward and step-like structure of the dashboard provides sufficient space for the front passenger when the seat is set at its most forward position while comfortably accomodating an adult in the rear seat.

Combined with shoulder-to-shoulder distance between driver and passenger of a similar volume to a C-segment vehicle, the unique 3+1 seating configuration creates enough room for three adults and, in addition, either a child or luggage behind the driver.

Centre take-off steering gear for compactness
Toyota has employed a centre take-off steering gear and positioned it higher in the engine bay. The gear, engine and differential could then be repositioned creating the iQ's size-reduced front overhang.

Slim seat design for greater leg room
The slimness of the iQ seat backs release a further 40mm of rear passenger room at knee height so that rear passengers can sit more comfortably.

With an all-new frame structure and optimal adjustment of ancillary parts, the slimmer seat designs save space without sacrificing comfort.

New iQ drives Toyota's green aims with low emission engines
Toyota has been pioneering in the continual search to reduce the car's impact on the environment. Using technology as its cornerstone, Toyota has persistently sought new ideas and new inventions to make the car friendlier to the environment.

In addition to Toyota's ongoing Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology innovations, the expansion of its small car range is integral to reducing environmental impact.

The new iQ, together with the Urban Cruiser also premiered at Geneva, plays a key role in Toyota's drive to reduce emissions. Both cars are also an essential part of Toyota's challenge to support the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association's (JAMA) voluntary commitment of 140 grams per kilometre by 2009.

The iQ will have the choice of one of two petrol or one diesel engine. These engines - along with the compact design, low weight, and aerodynamic shape of the iQ - will contribute to outstanding fuel economy and exceptionally low CO2 emissions, which are anticipated to start at around 100g/km.

Production commences in late 2008
Production of the iQ will commence during late 2008. In the first full year of production, Toyota expects to reach 100,000 units globally.

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If you're interested in learning more about the Toyota iQ subcompact, check back soon.