Toyota Prius V and Toyota Prius C concepts

What’s the plural of Prius? We don’t know, but at the 2011 Detroit motor show today Toyota pulled the wraps off two new Prius models. One is a production-ready MPV called the Toyota Prius V, and the second is the Prius C concept, which will inspire a future small hybrid.

The Prius has notched nearly one million sales in the US alone since it was introduced in 2000, and the current car is Toyota’s third best selling car in America – these new models will only push those numbers much higher.
Tell me about the production car first, the Toyota Prius V

‘V’, as you may have guessed, is for versatility, so although the Prius V sits on the same platform as the current Prius (and uses the same 1.8-litre petrol engine and Hybrid Synergy Drive tech). Mind you, it offers over 50% more luggage space than its smaller sibling.

There’s still only seating for five inside, but it’s even more spacious than the already ample Prius, and both the second row of seats and the front passenger seat fold flat.

It’s definitely still a Prius at the front, but the rear seems to mix Prius design cues with the Verso, old-shape Honda Civic and Saab 9-3 Sport Wagon. The extra size and weight means it’s not quite as economical as the regular Prius, achieving (US) 42mpg city and 38mpg highway, versus 51 and 48 for the original.
What about the new Toyota Prius C?

While the Prius V is bigger than the standard Prius, the C concept is smaller – ‘C’ stands for city.

The concept car itself previews a Yaris-sized production hybrid that we should see in the first half of 2012, and Toyota is aiming for a lower price point than the starting mark of $22,800 a Prius today.

Toyota claims it will be ‘the most value-oriented hybrid in the U.S. market with the highest mileage of any “cordless” hybrid’. The Prius plug-in will reach the US market at around the same time as the production Prius C.

Source from carmagazine

Toyota FT-86 II concept

The wait for Toyota’s rear-wheel drive coupe is nearly over. The new Toyota FT-86 II was unveiled today at the 2011 Geneva motor show, alongside the Subaru version.

The two sports cars are being co-developed and Toyota president Akio Toyoda makes no bones about his mission for the FT-86: ‘I want to transfer the thrill of the race track to our vehicles, and make driving fun and exciting for our customers,’ he said.

That’s right, this car could just signal the end of Toyota’s unfortunately dull reputation since the demise of cars such as the Celica and Supra. Toyota is positioning the FT-86 as the spiritual successor to those coupes, and of course the legendary rear-wheel drive AE86. It’s some counterpoint to the magnolia Auris, isn’t it?
What’s new on the FT-86 II?

Our pictures show a car that’s nearer to production reality, with a very Subaru-influenced surfacing on the flanks and a host of new details: the lower air intake is now a taller, more aggressive shape and the all-pervasive LED day running lights now follow the arc down from the headlamps to the spoiler. The wheelarches are more pronounced too.
Toyota FT-86 II: the lowdown

The FT-86 was designed with input from the company’s ED2 European design centre and the aero package has been developed with expertise gained during the company’s F1 exploits. Apparently.

Toyota has form in facelifting concept cars. Remember the long, drawn-out gestation of the Lexus LF-A? Now it’s the FT-86’s turn to be pepped up, hence the II tag added to the name. All you need to know is that this car is much closer to production. And that means that the zip-up dashboard is sadly consigned to the concept car dustbin.

It’s a compact sports car, measuring 4235mm long, 1795mm wide and 1270mm high. That low nose is allowed by Subaru’s boxer engine, which sits low in the nose mated to a six-speed manual box.
FT-86: rear-wheel drive

The FT-86 II is rear-wheel drive design, meaning that this Toyobaru mixes the specialisms of both brands. Subaru is firmly wedded to flat-cylinder engines, but is alien to rear-drive.

The two companies announced they’d work together in August 2009. Three years later, the production cars will be on sale – with Toyota promising the final version in showrooms in 2012.

Source from carmagazine

Lexus CT 200h F Sport Wallpaper

Lexus CT 200h F Sport Wallpaper


Lexus CT 200h F Sport Wallpaper

Lexus CT 200h F Sport Wallpaper

Lexus chose this week's Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) for the world premiere of its CT 200h F Sport model ahead of the car's introduction to Australia in the first half of 2011 as well other markets around the world.

As with other Lexus models, the F Sport treatment adds a number of visual and performance goodies to the firm's dedicated hybrid. On the outside, the CT 200h gets a sportier looking front bumper along with a honeycomb upper grille, beefier side skirts, and a reworked rear bumper that incorporates a diffuser.

The larger alloy wheels in a gunmetal finish and the option of a unique Flame Blue color round off the exterior upgrades.

Inside, those that opt for the F Sport-badged CT 200h will receive unique dashboard and door panel trims, plus F Sport steering wheel with a thicker rim, sports pedals, scuff plates, instrument panel and privacy glass.

While there are no changes to the CT 200h's hybrid powertrain, which comprises a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine, an electric motor and an electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT), Lexus says the F-Sport features an up-rated suspension.

Lexus CT 200h F Sport Wallpaper

Lexus CT 200h F Sport Wallpaper

TOYOTA SEQUOIA (2011) STILLS, PHOTOGALLERY, PICTURES

Fine-Tuned Toyota Etios To Be Lauched By The End Of 2010

Toyota India, plans to launch an improved version of Toyota Etios by the end of 2010. The improved Toyota Etios which is in the final stages of fine-tuning, is expected to be launched in 'December,2010'.
The Etios is the Japanese company's important car for India and Toyota has spent much effort to ensure that it meets the demands of the local environment. The harsh road conditions in India have forced Toyota to raise the suspension by approximately 20mm for better ground clearance. Another unique feature of the Indian model of Toyota Etios is a special under-body plate to protect the brake and fuel lines against stones.

Be lighter, Save Fuel!!!!!
The manufacturers have given priority to Etios' fuel economy also. The key to the fuel efficiency of Etios is its low weight. Both the sedan and hatchback versions of Etios promise to be the lightest cars in their class and the company revealed the hatchback's weight of 890kg. This makes new Toyota Etios 30kg lighter than the current lightweight champ, Nissan Micra.

Engine
The Toyota Etios Sedan is powered by a 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder twin-cam 16-valve motor developing around 95bhp while the Etios hatchback is powered by a smaller 1.2-litre engine developing 68bhp. Though the power output of the engines seems to be quite low, given the lightweight of the cars, performance promises to be above average for the class.
The diesel Etios is powered by the same 87bhp 1.4-litre engine as in the Corolla Altis but in a significantly smaller and lighter car, performance should again be more than adequate.



Comfort & Interiors
Toyota has given top priority to comfort as well. The suspension set-up is on the softer side and the bushes have been optimized to give the right amount of compliance for a smooth ride.
The wheelbase of Sedan model of Etios is 2550mm where as that of hatchback Etios is 2460mm. This gives new Etios exceptional interior space and it is likely to be the most spacious car in its class.

Variants
Toyota plans to launch four trim levels of the Etios. The basic version will be significantly stripped down and though air conditioning will be standard, there will be no power steering. The top-end model has all the features including 15-inch alloys. Surprisingly, Toyota is not offering electrically operated side mirrors for any variant, which is now common in other cars in the same class like Hyundai i10. ABS and airbags are standard for the top three models and a great facility is that even in the base model, these safety features are optionally available.

Price
Toyota keeps silence about the price of new Etios, but the price is expected to come in the lower end of the premium hatchback spectrum. Thus, the new Toyota Etios won't be as costly as the Honda Jazz or Volkswagen Polo, but will likely come in the price range of Nissan Micra and Maruti-Suzuki Swift. The price of the sedan version is expected to be in the range of that of Maruti-Suzuki Dzire.

The Toyota Etios Sedan is expected to be launched in December 2010 where as the hatchback version is expected to touch the roads in March, 2011.

Toyota Avensis NGTC Wallpaper

Toyota Avensis NGTC Wallpaper

Toyota Avensis NGTC Wallpaper

While Toyota has no plans to re-enter the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) with an official works team, the Japanese automaker has lent its support to GPR Motorsport that is building a new racing concept based on the European market and British-built Avensis sedan.

Toyota supplied GPR Motorsport with an Avensis donor car and bodyshell to build to the new specifications, which teams will be able to adopt from the 2011 racing season.

The Avensis NGTC (Next Generation Touring Car) car will make its track debut in the final round of this year's Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship at Brands Hatch on 9 – 10 October, driven by BTCC double champion, James Thompson

2011 Toyota Highlander

In my opinion these are one of the few Toyotas that actually looked good in this decade. The 2011 Highlander crossover made its world premiere today at this year's edition of the Moscow International Motor Show. Though Toyota is keeping its cards closed, buyers in the States should see a US launch of the facelifted crossover later this year.

The 2011 Highlander's exterior benefits significantly from a much more crisp, defined nose and headlights, along with restyled tail lamps and new bumper trim at the back. The rest of the car appears to go on mostly unchanged for the new model year.

Russian and Ukrainian buyers get a single engine option, the 3.5-liter V6 gasoline unit pumping out 273HP, matched to a five-speed automatic transmission.

In the States, powertrains and accessories should carry over from the 2010 model year, which means choosing an I4, V6, or hybrid and front- or all-wheel drive.

Toyota and Mazda agree to share Hybrid technology

Consumers will find a bit of Toyota at Mazda dealerships by 2013. Mazda will become the second manufacturer, after Nissan, to borrow Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive technology as part of a licensing agreement aimed at leap-frogging hybrids into Mazda’s stable beyond the lonely Mazda Tribute SUV. The deal’s details have yet to be released but Toyota’s key hybrid drive components are expected to make the cross over to Mazda’s recently announced, next-generation, direct-injected Sky engines.

TMC and Mazda Agree to Hybrid System Technology License
Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) and Mazda Motor Corporation (Mazda) have reached an agreement on the supply under license of hybrid technology used in the Toyota Prius. Leveraging this agreement, Mazda plans to combine the hybrid system with its next-generation SKY* engine that is currently under development, and develop and manufacture a hybrid vehicle in Japan. Mazda is aiming to commence sales of a hybrid vehicle starting in Japan by 2013.

Positioning response to environmental issues as a management priority, TMC began sales of the Prius, the world’s first mass-production hybrid vehicle, in 1997. Since then, over 2.3 million TMC-produced hybrid vehicles have been delivered to customers in over 70 countries and regions. TMC recognizes the importance of benefiting the environment by encouraging the popularization of its eco-friendly technologies, which are represented by its hybrid systems. Accordingly, TMC has announced that it will consider requests from other companies to supply hybrid technology.

Based on its long-term vision for technology development, Sustainable Zoom-Zoom, Mazda aims to increase the average fuel economy of Mazda vehicles sold globally 30 percent by 2015, compared to its 2008 level. In order to offer all of its customers driving pleasure as well as outstanding eco-friendly and safety performance, Mazda is implementing a Building Block Strategy. Under this strategy, Mazda will enhance the core aspects of its vehicles - including engines, transmissions and weight reduction - and then progressively add electric devices such as idling stop, regenerative braking and hybrid systems.

Through this partnership, each company intends to offer technologies and products with outstanding environmental benefits to as many people as possible. Concept name for engines and transmissions that are intended for launch from 2011 onward.

Toyota PM Concept Car a personal transport concept

Toyota PM Concept Car

Toyota PM is highly maneuverable thanks to its castor like wheels capable of rotating through 180 degrees. The front wheels are also notable because of their hub-less design.
The futuristic Toyota PM concept from 2003 is a personal transport concept.
The PM's cockpit opens by touching one of the unusual stalk mounted headlights, this then glows green to announce the impending opening of the glass canopy.
Another interesting feature Toyota has built into the PM is its adjustable ride height and attitude. As the PM's speed increases it lowers to the ground to increase stability and improve aerodynamics.
Inside the PM information regarding vehicle performance and the location of other PM's is relayed to the single occupant by a floating virtual display.
Power for the concept comes from an electric motor.

The 1997 Toyota Hilux

My Hilux is a 1997 Toyota with leaf springs all round. The Toyota Hilux was originally built way back in the 1980s with leaf spring suspension, and then when the SR5's came out independent front suspension was brought in. After 1997 the other normal hiluxes became independent front end too, which frankly for serious four wheel driving can cause issues.
Independent suspension is generally better for on road use, but off-road it isn't as strong or reliable and doesn't offer the same amount of flex. In saying this, they are still good cars. My Hilux has the leaf springs all round, and as a result is incredibly robust. I have put a set of 33 inch Maxxis bighorns on it, and it will keep up with all of the land cruisers and patrols out there. It doesn't have any difflocks, but the LSD at the back seems to help every so often.
I love the fact that My Hilux weighs so little. When you consider that some of the new four wheel drives today weigh almost 3 tonne and my car only weighs 1.5 you can see why they are such capable little machines. The only gripe that I have with it is that a 2.4 liter engine isn't very powerful. However, on a positive note they are incredibly economical, and not that slow on road. To make mine even more economical I converted it to gas, which gives it a good range for driving long distances.
The Maxxis Bighorns have to be the best modification I did. They are 12.5 inches wide (slightly wider than the standard tires) but a lot more aggressive. I have used mine so far for over 20 thousand kilometers and have yet to fault them. They wear hardly at all, are very grippy, bulge well when you let the tires down and love the mud. It's a great car!

Link to My Hilux and Maxxis Bighorns

Hidden Gems North of Perth
There are quite a few hidden gems found north of Perth. The farmstead at Wagoe is something that very few people know about, but it is one of the best places you can ever stay for fishing and snorkeling. Lucky Bay is just south of Wagoe, and as long as you are well set up for camping you will have a ball. Both of these places are about a 5.5 hour drive north of Perth, but they are well worth the drive.
I would suggest that you need a four wheel drive for both locations (especially Lucky bay). Wagoe you can get to the farmstead without one, but you would have to walk down to the beach every time that you wanted to go, which would become a real issue. By car, it's only a 3 minute drive, which is great as you can roll out of bed, throw the fishing gear in the car and roll down the hill. The beach there has masses of reef, and you can catch some huge fish. Every time we go there we have an absolute blast. The accommodation at Wagoe is much cheaper than in kalbarri, although it is not exactly luxury!
If you prefer something even cheaper you could consider lucky bay. This has a brilliant reef which runs about 100 meters parallel to the beach, about 50 meters out. The reef stops all of the bad weather, and snorkeling on the inside of the reef is always pretty decent. On a calm day though, you can head out the back and see some huge fish!

The New 2010 Toyota Avalon

The 2010 Toyota Avalon has not been altered significantly from the 2009 model. The 2010 Avalon keeps the same 3.5-liter V6 engine as its predecessor, which produces 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. This is the only engine available for all three trim options in the 2010 Avalon. This engine is a dual overhead cam (DOHC) 24-valve six-cylinder engine with Toyota's variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which makes the engine more responsive without hurting the fuel economy. The Avalon peaks in torque at just 4700 rpm, while maximum horsepower output comes at 6200 rpm.
This car is made to be stately and easy to drive, so all models include a standard six-speed automatic transmission. While it may seem that the Avalon's specs aren't any different from competing models like the Honda Accord and Nissan Maxima, what sets the Avalon apart is the engine's fuel economy. With 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, as well as a 23 mpg combined EPA rating, this is one of the most fuel efficient full-size sedans available. It is rated as a Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) by the EPA, and its 18.5 gallon fuel tank gives it a range of 425 miles between fill-ups.
The Avalon's mighty V6 propels the car to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds, which leads every car in its class but the Nissan Maxima, which makes the same run in 5.9 seconds. For a car this size, though, the acceleration isn't as important as considerations like the space and driving characteristics. This car aspires to the Lexus style of handling ease and comfort. While some drivers may be unsatisfied with the car's sportiness, those who want a reliably comfortable ride will enjoy the Avalon's ride.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation

Evoking a time when travel was sophisticated, elegant and comfortable, the new Toyota Avalon possesses a distinctive new exterior style while offering a restyled interior rich with premium touch points and practical new technologies. Toyota introduced the boldly redesigned 2011 Toyota Avalon at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The third generation Toyota Avalon was introduced in four models: the standard XL, the sport Touring, the XLS, and the luxury Limited. Each combined generous interior room with powerful engine performance. 

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

Designed at Toyota’s Calty Design Research in California, and assembled at Toyota’s Georgetown Kentucky manufacturing plant, the third-generation Avalons all have front grilles with horizontal chrome bars, large tail lamps, distinctive trunks, and dual exhaust outlets.

Even with numerous refinements inside and out, the Toyota Avalon remains true to the idea that comfort is honest and uncomplicated, and "Traveling Avalon Class" is rich in simple, familiar pleasures.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

The new Toyota Avalon has dynamic and expressive lines, and an infusion of comfort, safety and technology advancements that enrich the driving experience. Upgraded equipment and technology features, such as a touch-screen navigation system with real-time traffic, and Bluetooth® hands-free phone capability with music streaming to the audio system are among the improvements that enhance the 2011 Avalon's excellent blend of spaciousness, comfort and technology.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

"The Toyota Avalon has long been appreciated by smart, conscientious consumers who recognize quality materials and the beauty of detailed craftsmanship," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. "The changes made for 2011 will allow us to build on our position in the premium large car segment. The competition does not stand still, and neither do we."

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

Restyled at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., the Toyota Avalon is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), a "zero landfill" facility that also assembles the Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Venza. It was also developed at the Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Mich. For 2011, Calty restyled Toyota Avalon to project an elegant, outgoing presence. A wider, more substantial grille ties into state-of-the-art projector headlamps, working with a broad, undisturbed front hood to suggest a lowered center of gravity and emphasize the Toyota Avalon's wide stance.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

A power rear sunshade, deployable via a one-touch lever, filters direct sunlight coming through the rear window. The sunshade, which helps to protect rear seat passengers from unwanted light and heat, automatically detracts when the driver selects reverse gear. Toyota Avalon's exceptional combination of ample horsepower and excellent fuel economy offers one of the best overall dynamic performances in the large sedan segment.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

The 2011 Avalon is powered by a 24-valve, dual-overhead cam 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. The engine is equipped with the latest dual VVT-i electronic valve-control mechanism that provides a broader powerband, while requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions. It is mated to a multi-mode six-speed automatic transmission. The 2011 Toyota Avalon is an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV), EPA-estimated to deliver 20 mpg in the city, 29 highway, and 23 combined, as good as or better than any V6 model in the segment.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

The 2011 Toyota Avalon will be available in two grades when it arrives in showrooms in the spring of 2010, Avalon and Limited. Both grades will be well equipped with standard equipment like eight-way leather-trimmed power driver's seats, back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration, moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. Toyota Avalon will be available in nine exterior colors including three new colors: Zephyr Blue Metallic, Cypress Pearl and Sizzling Crimson Mica.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation

Evoking a time when travel was sophisticated, elegant and comfortable, the new Toyota Avalon possesses a distinctive new exterior style while offering a restyled interior rich with premium touch points and practical new technologies. Toyota introduced the boldly redesigned 2011 Toyota Avalon at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. The third generation Toyota Avalon was introduced in four models: the standard XL, the sport Touring, the XLS, and the luxury Limited. Each combined generous interior room with powerful engine performance. 

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

Designed at Toyota’s Calty Design Research in California, and assembled at Toyota’s Georgetown Kentucky manufacturing plant, the third-generation Avalons all have front grilles with horizontal chrome bars, large tail lamps, distinctive trunks, and dual exhaust outlets.

Even with numerous refinements inside and out, the Toyota Avalon remains true to the idea that comfort is honest and uncomplicated, and "Traveling Avalon Class" is rich in simple, familiar pleasures.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

The new Toyota Avalon has dynamic and expressive lines, and an infusion of comfort, safety and technology advancements that enrich the driving experience. Upgraded equipment and technology features, such as a touch-screen navigation system with real-time traffic, and Bluetooth® hands-free phone capability with music streaming to the audio system are among the improvements that enhance the 2011 Avalon's excellent blend of spaciousness, comfort and technology.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

"The Toyota Avalon has long been appreciated by smart, conscientious consumers who recognize quality materials and the beauty of detailed craftsmanship," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. "The changes made for 2011 will allow us to build on our position in the premium large car segment. The competition does not stand still, and neither do we."

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

Restyled at Calty Design Research in Newport Beach, Calif., the Toyota Avalon is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK), a "zero landfill" facility that also assembles the Camry, Camry Hybrid, and Venza. It was also developed at the Toyota Technical Center (TTC) in Ann Arbor, Mich. For 2011, Calty restyled Toyota Avalon to project an elegant, outgoing presence. A wider, more substantial grille ties into state-of-the-art projector headlamps, working with a broad, undisturbed front hood to suggest a lowered center of gravity and emphasize the Toyota Avalon's wide stance.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

A power rear sunshade, deployable via a one-touch lever, filters direct sunlight coming through the rear window. The sunshade, which helps to protect rear seat passengers from unwanted light and heat, automatically detracts when the driver selects reverse gear. Toyota Avalon's exceptional combination of ample horsepower and excellent fuel economy offers one of the best overall dynamic performances in the large sedan segment.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

The 2011 Avalon is powered by a 24-valve, dual-overhead cam 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. The engine is equipped with the latest dual VVT-i electronic valve-control mechanism that provides a broader powerband, while requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions. It is mated to a multi-mode six-speed automatic transmission. The 2011 Toyota Avalon is an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV), EPA-estimated to deliver 20 mpg in the city, 29 highway, and 23 combined, as good as or better than any V6 model in the segment.

2011 Redesigned Toyota Avalon Third Generation 

The 2011 Toyota Avalon will be available in two grades when it arrives in showrooms in the spring of 2010, Avalon and Limited. Both grades will be well equipped with standard equipment like eight-way leather-trimmed power driver's seats, back-up camera, dual zone automatic climate control with air filtration, moonroof and 17-inch alloy wheels. Toyota Avalon will be available in nine exterior colors including three new colors: Zephyr Blue Metallic, Cypress Pearl and Sizzling Crimson Mica.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

Toyota is the first carmaker in North America to be offering this innovation. The Auto Access Seat has a seat-mounted ingress/egress switch and a wireless remote control that allows for easy and flexible seat operation. The seat is able to rotate 90 degrees and can be lowered to within 19 inches of the ground to further facilitate easier passenger transfers at the exact height required. The Toyota Sienna is well known as a transportation solution for moving people and cargo comfortably and efficiently. The third-generation Toyota Sienna will look and drive more like a sedan, conform to new ideas about personal comfort, easily accommodate cargo, and handle big loads. The Toyota Sienna will come in five conveniently configured grades, all sharing a distinctly new visual direction and features. Toyota unveiled the all-new, third-generation Toyota Sienna minivan at a media conference at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto show.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The 2011 Sienna has been reinvented to handle these needs as it shifts to a more expressive and dynamic vehicle with a stronger profile, high shoulder character and responsive handling. The 2011 Toyota Sienna may be the Japanese automaker's third-generation minivan, but Toyota emphasizes that the new Sienna is becoming more carlike than ever. The Sienna gets smart updates to its drivetrains and to its interior package for 2011-but not to its seating configurations, which still lag the class-leading Dodge Grand Caravan and Nissan Quest in flexibility. The Sienna is offered in a broad model range, and continues to be the only minivan with an all-wheel-drive option.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The third-generation Sienna combines a contemporary style with features not previously seen in a minivan, and a fun-to-drive spirit that will surprise many, along with the flexibility, spaciousness and features that have defined the segment. The Sienna was designed by Toyota's Calty Design Research and developed at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich., with assembly being accomplished at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Indiana.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

A Toyota first rear-seat Dual View Entertainment Center is another innovative option. The system uses two displays side-by-side to create a seamless 16.4-inch widescreen image from a single source. When two separate entertainment options are called for, the system can split the screen into two individual screens, each with input from separate sources. Used as a single screen, it can be easily seen from the third row, and it can be operated from any seat via remote control. Used as two screens, the system can accommodate the preferences of two separate passengers who might want to play a video game or watch a second DVD simultaneously via auxiliary inputs.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

A choice of two responsive DOHC engines will be available: a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. By adding the alternative of a four-cylinder engine, the 2011 Toyota Sienna is the first minivan in years to stray from the V-6-engine-only formula. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand. 

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors V6 performance, while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway. Given its upgraded engineering, every Toyota Sienna will ride well and track cleanly through corners, but none more so than the newest addition to the line: the sporty SE.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The Limited is designed for customers who want all the features with more luxury. The standard equipment list is extensive, including new second-row Lounge Seating and a power 60/40 Split & Stow third-row seat, front and rear parking sonar, dual moonroof, Smart Key, and Safety Connect™. Select options include those available on the XLE plus HID auto high-beam auto-high beam headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, and Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

2011 Third-generation Toyota Sienna Minivan

The Toyota Sienna will come in five grades: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive is available with the V6 on LE, XLE and Limited models. The all-new 2011 Toyota Sienna will begin arriving at Toyota dealerships in February 2010.