November 10th, 2009
Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com
Driving the Toyota FJ is a lot like piloting a boat. The 4.0-liter V-6 with 239 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque does a good job of moving the 4338-pound ute, but executing dynamic maneuvers is a different story entirely. The FJ’s tall, boxy shape combined with the soft, off-road-compliant suspension and big tires leads to significant body roll, which is reflected in a poor 0.70 g of skidpad grip. Get on the gas, and the five-speed automatic’s well-spaced ratios allow a hustle to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. When the throttle is pegged, the FJ’s front lifts like it’s trying to plane on water; stomping on the brakes makes it dive like a submarine, with stops from 70 mph taking 190 ft of real estate. Considering its size and wind-catching shape, our test average of 17 mpg wasn’t too bad, sitting between the EPA’s 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway ratings.
Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com
The fate of a next-generation FJ is unknown, but we do know that 2010 models get an updated 4.0-liter V-6 with 19 more horsepower for a total of 258. A new Special Edition model will be available and should offer greater off-road prowess with Bilstein shocks, skid plates, TRD wheels, and a Garmin navigation system tailored to the trails.
The FJ is still somewhat of a misfit in the Toyota range and its segment. It sacrifices on-road competence, visibility, and interior comfort for off-road ability and style. It’s not the practical transportation appliance we’ve come to expect from Toyota, and although we admire its quirkiness—it has three windshield wipers—we can’t quite wrap our heads around this brick on wheels.
Tags: FJ Cruiser
Posted in Toyota Truck, Uncategorized | No Comments »
October 30th, 2009
If you have a passion for all things mechanical, you might be interested in getting trained as an automotive technician or diesel mechanic at a technical school such as WyoTech. WyoTech offers degree and diploma programs in the fields of Automotive, Diesel, and Collision Refinishing and have six campus locations nation-wide. (Programs vary by campus location.)
Tags: Automotive Technician, Diesel Mechanic, Wyotech
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September 30th, 2009
Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com
Toyota is introducing a redesigned 4Runner which does not exactly fit into the new trend of going “green” by removing the option of having a V-8 engine. However to compensate for this loss, the 4.0-liter V-6’s output swells beyond that of the old V-8—270 hp, compared to 260.
The platform is not new, however just about everything else about the 2010 4Runner is. The new sheetmetal is a welcome change—the outgoing 4Runner’s look dated to 2003—and continues Toyota’s recent streak of daring designs. The big, inward-slanted headlights lend a furrowed look to the 4Runner’s mug, while the slab sides and beefy, squared fender flares give it a tough, masculine look. An upright greenhouse and a broad, flat hood promise to satisfy those who want their trucks to feel big from behind the wheel, and the slimmer, forward-canted C-pillar pays homage to the Land Cruiser.
Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com
The furnishings inside have been completely overhauled as well, with richer materials and a modernized design finally abolishing the dated cockpit of the previous model. A third row of seats remains an option, and the second row gains the ability to recline.
With the smaller engine, pricing will begin below the 2009 model. The two-wheel-drive, four-cylinder model will begin at $28,300 including destination, and the Limited will sticker at $40,600.
Tags: 2010 4runner, 2010 toyota 4runner, Toyota 4Runner
Posted in Toyota 4Runner, Toyota SUV | No Comments »
July 30th, 2009
Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com
Successfully striking a balance between power and efficiency, Toyota is offering a new mid-grade V-8 for the 2010 Tundra. This 4.6-liter V-8 produces a healthy 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque. With increased efficiency under the hood, coupled with the installation of a six-speed automatic transmission, the mid-grade Tundra boasts impressive fuel economy – an estimated 15 city mpg and 20 highway mpg. Starting with a base price of $25,158, this smooth-driving dual-purpose truck with surprising Lexus-like quietness is a value that is hard to beat.
Click here for the latest Lexus news.
Tags: 2010 Toyota Tundra 4.6 V-8, Toyota Tundra, Tundra
Posted in Toyota SUV, Toyota Truck, Toyota Tundra | No Comments »
July 14th, 2009
Image Source: Car and Driver
Taking a complete 180 degree turn from its hybrid focus, Toyota is making a supercharged version of its Tundra. This supercharged behemoth will be capable of producing 504-hp and 550 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds and a ¼ mile time of only 13.5 seconds. With a fuel economy of 14/18 mpg before modifications and a testing price of $42,502, this truck is built specifically for those guys who just can’t seem to show enough masculinity.
Tags: Supercharged, Toyota Tundra
Posted in Toyota SUV, Toyota Truck, Toyota Tundra, Uncategorized | No Comments »
July 7th, 2009
Car and Driver is planning to re-launch its site. This new and improved site promises to be much more interactive and user-friendly. With increased functionality, it will be even easier to navigate. There is much more information and links on the new homepage, allowing for quicker, more efficient search.
In addition, one of the best features of the new site is the increased functionality of the buyer’s guide, which allows you to more easily search for vehicles specifically tailored to your needs. For example, if you choose a make such as Toyota, the new site instantly provides you with several links to the latest reviews, comparison tests, news, and advice on different models.
Then, selecting a model, such as the Tundra allows you to view all of its top competitors in that class. With the ability to drill down on specifications and view tons of interior and exterior images, the new Car and Driver site is definitely more interactive and user-friendly, and will enhance your Toyota truck shopping experience. Feel free to email any feedback to caranddriver@hfnm.com.
Tags: Car and Driver, toyota, Truck, Tundra
Posted in Toyota Truck, Toyota Tundra, Uncategorized | No Comments »
June 25th, 2009
How does the Toyota Tacoma stack up? Not bad...
Summer is here, and that almost certainly means that fuel prices will stay on the rise. If you’re in the market for a new or slighty used Toyota (and now is a great time to buy), a few extra MPG can save you thousands of dollars over the lifespan of the vehicle.
We’ve ranked all current Toyota trucks and SUVs for fuel efficiency (best to worst) using an average efficiency rating (city and highway). Enjoy.
- Highlander Hybrid – 26mpg
- Rav 4 – 25mpg
- Highlander – 23.5mpg
- Tacoma – 23mpg
- Sienna – 20mpg
- FJ Cruiser -19.5mpg
- 4Runner – 18.5mpg
- Tundra – 17mpg
- Sequoia – 16.5mpg
- Land Cruiser – 15.5mpg
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May 12th, 2009
2010 Toyota Prius
With the 2010 Prius, Toyota takes another step forward in eco-friendly motoring. The car is equipped with Toyota’s most advanced hybrid automobile technology – the Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD). With HSD, Toyota excels in producing powerful full-hybrid vehicles, improving upon the single or dual mode hybrid cars offered by most competitors.
The core of HSD is a drive-by-wire system that eliminates the conventional mechanical and hydraulic control systems – it doesn’t need a direct connection between the engine and its controls. Instead,HSD uses electro-mechanical actuators that send electrical signals generated from different components of the car to a computerized power control system.
HSD Powertrain of 2010 Toyota Prius
The new 2010 Prius is capable of driving on either gasoline or electric power alone, as well as on a combined power supply. A 1.8L WT-i petrol engine, an electric motor, a high-voltage battery, a power control unit, and a power split mechanism ensure smooth acceleration and an emission free ride. The 2010 model also increases system power output by a hefty 22%.
The 2010 Prius can reach 30mph in electric mode, and boasts an incredible 72.4mpg is attainable from the combined drivetrain. Exceeding the Euro 5 emission standard, the 2010 Toyota Prius is the most efficient green car of the future.
If you’re an owner of an earlier Toyota Prius model, or plan to be, you can get more from your Prius and reduce your impact on the environment by having a company like Plug In Solutions convert yours into a PHEV.
Image courtesy: motiontrends and cars.com
Tags: 2010 Toyota Prius, Toyota Prius
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May 8th, 2009
2010 Toyota Tacoma Truck
The 2010 Toyota Tacoma is perfect for those who seek a compact pick up loaded with the latest technological features. The Tacoma exterior remains unchanged for 2010, but loads of new entertainment and comfort features make their presence felt inside the cabin.
Like its predecessors, the 2010 Tacoma comes in three cab styles – Regular, Double and Extended Access Cab. Each of these choices offers an array of configurations.
Toyota has implemented a new Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) in the 2010 Tacoma, further optimizing fuel consumption. Gear up Toyota fans – the 2010 Tacoma’s 4.0L 236Hp V6 mated with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission is expected to deliver even better performance on and off the road.
Tags: 2010 Toyota Tacoma, Toyota Tacoma
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May 4th, 2009
2009 Toyota Tundra
2009 GMC Sierra 1500
We put two hot sellers in the pick up truck category – the 2009 Toyota Tundra and the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 head to head. Here’s what we found.
Utility
Both the 2009 Toyota Tundra and 2009 GMC Sierra come with three cab styles featuring three different bed lengths – making a wide array of configurations. With over 10000 lbs towing ability, the Tundra is the perfect choice for heavy haulers, besting the Sierra 1500 by 1500lbs.
Power & Performance
Though Toyota and GMC both offer powerful V6 and V8 engine that make use of E85 ethanol blended fuel, GM excels in fuel efficiency by implementing Active Fuel Management Technology. The Sierra calls the shots with a 15/21/17 mpg EPA rating, besting Tundra’s 13/17/15 mpg.
Ride & Handling
While the 2009 Tundra is one of the fastest trucks on the road, the 2009 Sierra’s multiple suspensions deliver easier handling and a smoother ride.
Style & Comfort
Tundra offers an extremely stylish interior with comfy seats and ample room for passengers as well as cargo. Nevertheless, GMC Sierra is comparably equipped with an attractive dashboard, comfortable seats and an ergonomic interior to make your ride more enjoyable.
If your focus is on exterior and interior styling and standard luxury features, the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 is your pick. But if you are looking for a complete package of power, towing capability, riding comfort, handling and safety, the 2009 Toyota Tundra is the best buy.
Image: autos.aol.com
Tags: 2009 GMC Sierra, 2009 Toyota Tundra, Toyota Tundra
Posted in Toyota Tundra | No Comments »
