Toyota Truck Lovers » toyota

New Toyota “runaways” now include Prius?

Erika — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:14:44 +0000

Recent Toyota recalls for hazardous floor-mats, sticking throttles, and most recently for braking issues experienced in the Prius and the Lexus HS250h have been the topic of conversation for quite some time now. The controversy seemed to have reached a boiling point as Congressional hearings were held allowing interested parties to share their perspectives regarding safety problems with Toyota Vehicles. By the close of the hearings, Toyota recalls had been making headlines for months and Toyota Motors had already spent a fortune on repairs and a highly visible public relations campaign. It started to seem like we’d finally be able to shift our attention elsewhere. Unfortunately, it’s pretty difficult to move on while we’re still hearing reports of “runaway Toyotas”. Just in case you haven’t been following the news of late, here are a couple of reports related to recent incidents:

*PLEASE NOTE – The runaway Toyota Prius reports are especially concerning because the Prius was a late invitee to the recall party, and were recalled specifically for braking issues, and NOT for instances of sudden acceleration. Also, the most publicized Prius incident occurred in Southern California, where 4 died in a “runaway” Lexus ES350 crash that played a huge roll in putting the spotlight on safety concerns surrounding Toyota cars.

Car and Driver’s New Site – Toyota Trucks

Erika — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 20:55:05 +0000

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.

Safety Connect – Connecting Toyota with Its Customers

Erika — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:24:05 +0000

Toyota Safety Connect System

Toyota has announced its new on-board telematics program called Safety Connect. Similar to GM’s OnStar, Safety Connect will team up with Lexus Enform, a user guidance application. The system comprises four major security features:

Automatic Collision Notification (ACN)

The ACN automatically calls the Toyota response center via ECT (Embedded Cellular Technology) and GPS if a head-on collision occurs. The Safety Connect response center gets the ID and location of the vehicle, and the response agent can directly communicate with the driver. If the driver is not able to respond, the agent assumes an emergency and notifies the Public Safety Answering Point nearest to the vehicle – providing necessary support.

Emergency Assistance Button (SOS)

24-hour emergency support is only a press away with the SOS button. If the ACN fails, any passenger can use this button to notify Toyota’s specialized telematics call center.

Stolen Vehicle Location (SVL)

Using cellular signals and GPS, Safety Connect can track down the location of a stolen vehicle. The Safety Connect subscriber only needs to report the call center regarding the theft of his/her vehicle after reporting a complaint with the police.

Roadside Assistance

The Toyota Safety Connect response center is ready to provide assistance 24×7. From towing problems to jump-start issues, you can ask for technical help by pressing the SOS button.
The new technology will be available in selective Toyota models by 2010. With Safety Connect, Toyota strengthens the bond with its customers while ensuring enhanced reliability.

Image: Toyota.com

Evolution of Toyota Trucks – 1964 to Present

Erika — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 08:49:01 +0000

Toyota Trucks : Then

Toyota Trucks: Now

Of modest beginnings, Toyota has come a long way since the days of small cabs and compact cargo beds. Let’s take a look back at Toyota truck history.

1964

Toyota Motors introduced Stout in the American markets in 1964. It took four years to transform Stout into Hi-Lux, with a 4-cylinder 1.9L engine known as 3R – it was an instant success.

Until 1979, Toyota left the Hi-Lux relatively unchanged, replacing the old engine with a 3^rd generation 2.0L 18-RC. Named “Pick-up Truck of the Year” by Pickup, Van & 4WD, the Hi-Lux eventually lost its title, known only as compact truck.

1979

With a sporty look, 5-speed manual transmission and 4WD, the SR5 was a substantial improvement in truck design. Starting here, Toyota truck production was divided into 4×2 and 4×4 streams.

1981

A 2.4L gasoline superseded the 22R engine making Toyota trucks more reliable and durable. In the same year, Toyota introduced a 2.2L diesel engine as well.

1984

The 5^th generation truck was born. Toyota unveiled Xtracab, featuring additional storage space, an advanced locking system and a turbo charged engine. The trucks got minor facelifts along with a 4-speed electronic transmission control and IFS (Independent Front Suspension).

1989

By 1989, 6^th generation trucks were on a roll with an all-new V6 and huge towing capacity. Small improvements and modifications continued until 1994. During this period, Toyota pickups obtained various luxury features, including AC, CD-players and sport seating.

1995

The Tacoma ushered in the 7^th generation of Toyota truck manufacturing. The new Tacoma, designed and produced in America, was redesigned as both a 2WD and 4WD. Both versions had an optional 190Hp 3.4L V6 engine able to produce 220lb–ft of torque. New safety features included side airbags, adjustable seatbelt anchors, enhanced side view mirror and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes.
Toyota Trucks in 1995

Tacoma sees a radical change in styling, with facade-covering-grilles, a raised chassis, multi-reflector headlights and an extensive interior upgrade. The newly launched Tacoma Double Cab offered more room for cargo and passengers, with comfort of an SUV. Gradually Toyota introduced sports trucks with Xtracab in the form of S-Runner and SideStep powered by a 4 or 6 cylinder engine.
2005

Tacoma enters a new model year with 18 different trims, ranging from a 4×2 regular cab with a small pickup bed, to a 4×4 double cab featuring an extended bed. The brand new X-Runner with 6-speed manual transmission, a 4L V6 and 18-inch wheels supersedes S-Runner.
Present

With minor tweaks in 2006 and 2007, today’s Toyota trucks are a carry over from 2008. With enhanced luxury and safety features Toyota continues to be the most reliable and popular choice for pickup trucks owners around the world.
Image: Wikimedia

Toyota Hino 700 Series – First Look

Erika — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 08:45:30 +0000

Hino, a South African based Toyota company, has launched a formidable line-up of trucks – the 700 Series. At present, the 700 Series is the biggest and most powerful line ever produced by Toyota. These heavy-duty vehicles boast a E13C-TN power plant, generating 450HP and a maximum of 2157 ft-lb of torque. The most significant attribute of this engine is the revolutionary common rail fuel injection system, reducing fuel consumption by approximately 10 percent.

Blending toughness with cutting-edge technology, the Hino 700 Series is among the most impressive truck lines we’ve seen.