Sunday, November 30, 2008

2009 Toyota Hilux











Toyota Hilux


In 2007, three years after its European launch, the Toyota Hilux segment share climbed to 22% with 38,957 vehicles sold, reaching almost three times its 2005 volume in Europe. The sixth generation Toyota Hilux achieved worldwide cumulative sales of 1,269,799 vehicles at the end of 2007, with annual sales of 508,107 in the same year.

Of ever-increasing appeal to leisure drivers, the Toyota Hilux range stretches from the basic Single Cab workhorse to the SUVstyle Double Cab pick-up. Now new features and upgrades on the 2009 model are set to make Toyota Hilux Europe’s leisure pick-up of choice. With a sales target of 47,000 units in 2009, Toyota Hilux is expected to become an even stronger volume and image contributor to Toyota SUV-leadership position in Europe.

Muscular SUV styling outside

From the front, the new trapezoid front grille with its metallic grey plate bar reflects the rugged good looks of Toyota Sport Utility Vehicles. The bumper has also been redesigned with a larger, wider opening, suggesting a lower centre of gravity. Moving away from the front bumper, the strong, muscular lines sweep through to the rear – accentuated by newly designed 15” alloy wheels on Double Cab SR grade models and brand new 17’’ alloys on Double Cab SR-X grade.


Three body shapes give a wide range of customer choice. The Double Cab is extremely popular with leisure and adventure customers, and was the top European customer choice in 2007 with 63% of Toyota Hilux total sales. The Extra Cab followed with 26%, then came the Single Cab workhorse with 11%.

Two new exterior colours are available from 2008: Blue Metallic and Greyish Brown – while on the Double Cab SR and SR-X grade, stylish, darkened privacy glass is now standard for the second seat row and rear window.

‘Passenger car’ leisure styling inside

Viewed from inside, there’s a feeling of ‘passenger car’ comfort, starting with the redesigned 4-spoke steering wheel, with new fingertip audio controls and multi-information display switches. Steering wheel and gearshift knob are leather on the 3.0 D-4D Double Cab model.

The instrument cluster has been enhanced with clearer indicators while attention to detail has resulted in more easily readable light and wiper controls, and a redesigned, more ergonomic shift console for the manual transmission.

A new automatic air conditioning system has intuitive push-type heating controls with a digital display. Selected temperature, vent and air inlet mode are all displayed clearly on the LCD screen, while dust and pollen are removed by a highly efficient air cleaner filter.

All 3.0 D-4D Double Cab models now come with new sports seats. These are designed for extra comfort as well as good looks, with broader, deeper support on the sides and back.

New 5-speed automatic transmission

Toyota Hilux features two advanced Toyota diesel engines, the 2.5 D-4D and the 3.0 D-4D. These second generation common-rail diesel power units are refined and quiet, delivering smooth, potent performance throughout the rev range. High efficiency turbochargers ensure low fuel consumption and lower emissions.

The 2.5 D-4D engine, boasting 120 Hp and 325 Nm of torque, is available as two-wheel-drive or four-wheeldrive versions, both with 5-speed manual transmission. Even at low revs (from 1600 rpm), this workhorse engine develops a minimum of 300 Nm of torque. On the combined cycle, the 2009 Toyota Hilux 2.5 D-4D delivers fuel consumption from 7.4 l/100 km to 8.3l/100km, depending on the version chosen.

The 3.0L D-4D, only available on the Double Cab, gives the Toyota Hilux a market-leading power to weight ratio and outstanding driving characteristics with 171 Hp. Engine torque has been boosted in the automatic version by 17Nm to 360Nm, between 1400 and 3400rpm.

The 3.0 D-4D model comes with a four-wheel-drive power train only, and offers a choice of a 5-speed manual gearbox or an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission, which utilises Artificial Intelligence (AI) that can adapt the gear shift pattern to suit driving conditions such as driver input or road conditions. This system, developed by Toyota, can estimate uphill and downhill gradients, as well as predicting and supporting the driver’s intentions.

Pulling power is further enhanced by a sophisticated Swirl Control System on the 3.0 D-4D. This optimises the air-fuel mixture at low engine speeds, increasing torque availability without the need for acceleration. Along with lower emissions, the system improves fuel efficiency, which ranges from 8.3 for the 5-speed manual and an improved 8.9 litres/100 km (9.4 for the previous 4-speed automatic) for the new 5-speed automatic. The 2009 Toyota Hilux 3.0 D-4D delivers a top speed of 170 km/h for the manual transmission and 175 km/h for the automatic transmission.

With the addition of a special cold area pack featuring two battery units, a high power starter and an additional rear heater duct, the 3.0 D-4D engine can now be introduced in all European countries.

Both engines comply with Euro IV emissions regulations and provide Toyota Hilux customers with an excellent balance of driving pleasure, low fuel consumption and low emissions. Suspension enhancements to ensure stable handling and optimum reliability include new double-row roller-type rear axle bearings and a more responsive valve structure on the front shock absorbers. Road surface vibrations – already low due to the high torsional stiffness of the suspension design – are further reduced by new suspension bushes. Combined with quieter engines and Toyota sound-reduction technology, this helps to produce a refined hush, even at speed, that’s more like a passenger car than a rugged utility vehicle.

Enhanced equipment level on the Double Cab version

Responding to increasing demand from leisure customers, the 2009 Toyota Hilux has a whole host of new features across its range of body shapes, all designed to enhance comfort for both driver and passengers. The 2.5 D-4D Single Cab Toyota Hilux, available in only one grade, is the ultimate Toyota Hilux workhorse. Tough and uncompromising, its straightforward specifications include manual windows, material coloured front bumper and 15’’ steel wheels. Audio system, ABS and manual air-conditioning are optional on the base DLX grade.

The roomier 2.5 D-4D Extra Cab version still has a generous deck length, and offers an additional grade choice with the four-wheel-drive version: the more refined SR grade. It features leather steering wheel and gearshift knob, new 15” alloys, new headlamp cleaners, power windows and manual air conditioning.

The 3.0 Double Cab model offers a wide range of choices to suit customer preferences. The SR grade now features a new leather steering wheel with audio controls, an all-new automatic air-conditioning system and newly designed 15’’ alloy wheels.

The SR-X grade adds new 17’’ alloy wheels, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and sports leather seats. With this, Toyota Hilux drivers will enjoy a far more refined vehicle.

Cruise control is now standard on manual as well as on automatic 3.0 D-4D Double Cab models. New Hi-tech features include an upgraded full map navigation system, with improved graphics. This is integrated with the 4-speaker audio system, which is fully compatible with MP3 and WMA CD format, as well as with MP3 players and DAB.

The 2009 Toyota Hilux is now available with a new lockable tailgate, used when fitting the vehicle with a hardtop cover. And there’s also a wide range of new genuine accessories to customise the 2009 Toyota Hilux, from front guards to a chrome exhaust finish.

Improved safety features

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is now standard on the Toyota Hilux 3.0L D-4D engine to provide active safety and improved driving dynamics. Toyota Hilux comes also fitted with a Limited Slip Differential (LSD) at the rear axle designed to provide traction off-road and even minimise wheel spin when travelling on-road. The LSD, standard equipment depending on markets, transfer torque away from a slipping rear wheel and provide best possible traction. This automatically distributes the necessary balance of torque between the left and right rear wheel and gives torque to the one wheel with the higher traction.

The Double Cab receives a complete upgrade of the passive safety system. In addition to the driver and the passenger SRS airbag, side airbags for driver and passenger and curtain airbags protecting the front and rear row are newly available.

281 mm ventilated front disc brakes are fitted on two-wheel-drive versions, while the four wheel-drive-version is fitted with new 297 mm disc brakes (319 mm with VSC). At the rear, 254 mm drum type brakes are available with the two-wheel-drive and 295 mm with the four-wheeldrive version.


2008 Toyota Camry CNG Hybrid Concept










Toyota Camry CNG Hybrid Concept


Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., highlighted the versatility of its Hybrid Synergy Drive® system by showing a compressed natural gas (CNG) Toyota Camry CNG Hybrid concept vehicle at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show.

"In the near future, growing demand for liquid petroleum simply and effectively will exceed supply," said Chris Hostetter, group vice president, TMS Advanced Product Strategy. "Before that occurs, automakers must look to vehicles powered by alternative fuels. We believe CNG will be one of those alternatives."

The current CNG benefits are amplified by rapidly changing market conditions and an increase in consumer environmental awareness. As a transport fuel, natural gas is a clean and safe gasoline alternative. It can potentially reduce U.S. dependency on foreign oil and reduce vehicle operating costs. Currently more than 99 percent of natural gas used in the U.S. comes from domestic & other North American sources. Proven worldwide natural gas reserves are estimated to last until 2100 and have the potential to last until 2200 through improved advanced production methods.

Natural gas also produces lower particulate emissions, nitrous oxide (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and non-methane organic gases (NMOG), and less CO2 per unit of energy when compared with gasoline. In addition, it has a higher flash point (ignition temperature) than gasoline, can run at a higher compression ratio and is quickly dispersed into the atmosphere, should a leak occur.

The Toyota Camry CNG Hybrid concept was designed by the TMS Advanced Product Strategy group and built by Metal Crafters of Fountain Valley, Calif. To convert the stock Toyota Camry Hybrid to a CNG vehicle, the gasoline fuel system was replaced with a CNG system including two CNG tanks installed in the spare tire well area.

The exterior of the vehicle also received some sporty 'concept' touches. A sleek custom front fascia and front bumper cover eliminate the grill opening, while a custom rear bumper covers the tail pipe and visible exhaust system. The vehicle is fitted with 19 x 7.5 alloy wheels and Bridgestone Potenza 225/35ZR19 run-flat tires to accommodate the lack of a spare tire. The overall ride height is lowered while new side body skirts and "Compressed Natural Gas Hybrid" graphics complete the unique look.

In 1999, Toyota marketed a CNG-powered four-cylinder Camry to fleet customers in California. Due to relatively low gasoline costs at that time, customers were not attracted to a vehicle that required special refueling techniques and a limited refueling infrastructure. The program was discontinued a year later. Today there are less than 1,000 CNG refueling stations nationwide, with less than half open to the public.

"Toyota believes CNG has huge potential, both in the U.S. and globally," said Hostetter, "but CNG is just one of the many alternative fuels we're exploring in our ongoing advanced technology research and development."

Thursday, November 20, 2008

2009 Toyota Corolla Sedan










"Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, the 2009 Corolla will continue to offer the quality and value for which the brand has long been known," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "In style and substance, the tenth-generation Corolla will have a strong, new identity, all its own. It will be far more than merely the next-generation Corolla and will position itself perfectly above our entry-level Yaris and below our sales leader, the Camry." 

Originally launched in Japan in 1966, Corolla first arrived in America in 1968 to instant success. For nearly four decades, Corolla has been synonymous with Toyota quality, style and value, earning a distinction as one of the most trusted cars in America. Over that span more than 30 million Corollas have been sold worldwide, making it one of the best-selling cars of all time. 

The new Corolla remains true to the brand's role as a subcompact sedan, with dimensions similar to the model it replaces. But it offers an all-new body with a lean, stylish shape, and it delivers increased interior and luggage room, more power, more economical engines and an all-new chassis and suspension.

The all-new Corolla will come in five grades - Standard, LE, XLE, the sporty S, and the performance-driven XRS. 


The Corolla's wide, low profile was developed by Toyota Design in collaboration with styling studios in Turin, Italy. Its foundation was set by the search for a lower, sportier shape than that of the previous Corolla. That search drove the decision to move the bottom of the A-pillar forward and the bottom of the C-pillar aft to increase the angle of the window glass and to improve the Corolla's aerodynamic performance. 

The standard body kit on S and XRS models helps to modify aerodynamics and enhance the Corolla's sporty look - these include a front underbody spoiler, fog lamps, rocker moldings, upper and lower rear spoilers, and for improved air management under the car, engine undercovers.

The 2009 Corolla's interior is sporty and distinctive - with roomy-feeling comfort. While Corolla maintains the same headroom, legroom and shoulder room as the previous model, it feels larger, thanks to a design that enhances comfort and improves utility, usability and storage.

A variety of useable, easy-to-reach storage spaces add convenience and usability to the 2009 Corolla's interior. These include center console side pockets, a storage box above the usual glove box, front and rear door pockets that can safely hold 20-ounce bottles, a console box with a large-capacity main tray and a smaller accessory tray, an overhead console useful for storage of sunglasses or garage-door openers, and a rear-seat center armrest with an integral drink holder.

Map lights that illuminate independently are supplied for both driver and front passenger. And to aid in ingress and egress, retractable handgrips are supplied above each door opening.

The Standard, LE and XLE models will be equipped with an all-new 1.8-liter engine. The 16-valve, DOHC four-cylinder engine with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), produces 132 hp at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Corolla models equipped with the 1.8-liter engine will achieve preliminary EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of 27/35 mpg.

A five-speed manual transmission is standard with the 1.8-liter engine, and a four-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) will also be available.

For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, there is the 2.4-liter engine. This engine is completely redesigned for use in the new Corolla XRS grade. The 16-valve DOHC engine with VVT-i produces 158 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Preliminary EPA city/highway fuel economy for the 2.4-liter engine is 22/30 mpg.

The 2.4-liter engine will be paired with standard five-speed manual and optional five-speed automatic transmissions.

Safety features on the all-new Corolla include standard driver and front passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and two-row side curtain airbags. 

Front seats employ active headrests as standard equipment. When the vehicle is struck from the rear, a cable-actuated mechanism in the active headrest moves the headrest upward and forward to limit the movement of the seat occupant's head.

Toyota's Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard on all grades of the Corolla and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control (TRAC) and an off switch is available. 

The all-new Corolla will be loaded with a comprehensive list of standard performance and convenience features. All models will be equipped with a heavy duty rear window defogger, AM/FM/CD audio with four speakers that is also XM® satellite capable, auxiliary audio input jack, air conditioning with air filter, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, 60/40 split folding rear seats, and much more.

The sporty S grade will feature standard P205/55R16 tires with full wheel covers, color-keyed front and rear underbody spoilers, fog lamps, front sport seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, black headlamp housing, chrome exhaust tip and AM/FM/CD XM® capable audio with six speakers.

In addition to S grade features, the XRS grade adds a rear deck spoiler, P215/45 R17 tires with alloy wheels, sport strut tower brace, VSC with TRAC and an off switch, XRS scuff plate, leather-trimmed shift lever and knob, cruise control and an interior chrome accent. 

An impressive list of optional comfort and utility features will be available to further enhance the Corolla driving experience such as AM/FM/six-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, satellite radio (subscription required) and six speakers, a power package that includes power windows and door locks. Additional options on select grades include JBL Audio system with AM/FM six-disc CD changer with eight speakers and Bluetooth®, Navigation system with AM/FM CD with MP3/WMA playback capability and XM® satellite radio with XM NavTraffic® capable with six speakers, leather-trimmed seats and shift knob, tilt and slide moonroof, VSC with TRAC and cut-off switch. 

The all-new Corolla will reach Toyota dealerships in February 2008. 

2009 TOYOTA COROLLA PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS
1.8-liter four-cylinder engine 
132 hp @ 6,000 rpm
128 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm
Five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions
2.4-liter four-cylinder engine 
158 hp @ 6,000 rpm
162 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4,000 rpm
Five-speed manual and five-speed automatic transmissions

2009 Toyota 4Runner










The 2009 Toyota 4Runner full-capability sport-utility vehicle adds an optional Trail Edition package. Available exclusively for the 4Runner SR5 with V6 and 4WD, the Trail Edition package combines enhanced off-road capability with unique design.

For better off-road performance, the package adds a locking rear differential, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Bilstein shock absorbers and unique 16-inch alloy wheels with 265/70R16 tires. Externally, the Trail Edition package distinguishes the Toyota 4Runner with color-keyed grille, door handles, rear license plate garnish and "Trail Edition" badging, as well as black tubular side steps and tubular roof rack. The Trail Edition package is available in three exterior colors: Titanium Metallic, Natural White and Shadow Mica.

The Trail Edition package also features seats covered in water-resistant material and charcoal fabric bolsters. A perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel integrates controls for the unique AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and a detachable TomTom® personal navigation unit. The system offers WMA/MP3 CD capability, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, satellite radio capability and available iPod® connectivity.

The Toyota 4Runner is offered in three grade levels: the SR5, the Sport Edition that features a distinct appearance and enhanced handling performance, and the Limited grade with additional upscale comfort amenities.


Performance

The Toyota 4Runner is available with a choice of V6 or V8 engines, in both 2WD and 4WD models. The standard 4.0-liter dual overhead cam (DOHC) V6 engine produces 236 horsepower, with 266 lb-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The available 4.7-liter i-Force DOHC V8 produces 260 horsepower, with 306 lb-ft. of torque at 3,400 rpm. Both engines include variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) which helps provide strong low-end and mid-range torque.

The 4Runner's standard five-speed automatic transmission adapts gear-shifting patterns according to driving conditions and driver input. Shift logic holds gears on inclines for more power and on descents for increased engine braking, which can be helpful when towing.

An automatic Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) is standard on 2WD models for improved traction in slippery conditions. Four-wheel drive Toyota 4Runner models employ a TORSEN® torque-sensing type limited-slip center differential with locking feature. The distinguishing feature between the V6 and V8 4WD systems is the Multi-Mode selectable system on the V6, while the V8's 4WD is strictly a full-time system. Both are equipped with a two-speed transfer case with low range for handling steep off-highway inclines.

In both systems, the TORSEN® differential distributes 60 percent of available power to the rear wheels under most conditions and changes the ratio as needed based on steering input and wheel slip. In the event of front wheel spin during steering maneuvers, the vehicle will automatically shift to a 29:71 power distribution ratio to enhance vehicle tracking through curves. The center differential can change the ratio to 53:47 when it encounters rear wheel spin to help control rear wheel slippage. The TORSEN® differential makes the Toyota 4Runner less prone to slippage caused by sudden changes in road conditions.

On 4WD models, Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is designed to augment the low-speed descending ability of low-range by helping the vehicle hold a target speed with no intervention from the driver. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), standard on all models, provides additional control for off-road driving by helping to keep the vehicle stationary when starting on a steep incline or slippery surface.

Handling and Ride

The 4Runner's rugged body-on-frame construction utilizes full-length boxed section frame rails that employ large-diameter body mounts for high torsional rigidity and excellent cabin noise isolation. On V8 models, a standard tow hitch receiver bolts directly to the rear frame crossmember (optional on V6 models). A draw bar, a high-capacity seven-pin electrical connector for trailer wiring, and pre-wiring for an electric trailer brake controller are also standard equipment.

Suspension is controlled by double wishbones in front and a four-link rigid axle in the rear, both systems using coil springs over gas shock absorbers. The Toyota 4Runner Limited V8 4WD model can be equipped with auto-leveling rear air suspension for improved ride and performance when towing or carrying heavy loads. This option is teamed with the unique X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension that is standard on the Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition.

The X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension diagonally links the compression chambers of the shock absorbers (front left shock linked to rear right and front right linked to rear left) by a center control absorber. The system helps improve on-road handling and dampens body roll and pitch by passing small body motions from front-to-rear to increase overall vertical shock damping.

Towing capacity is 5,000 lbs. for V6 models, 7,000 lbs. for V8 4WD models and 7,300 lbs. for V8 2WD models. All Toyota 4Runner models are equipped with skid plates for the engine and fuel tank, and 4WD models add one for the transfer case, as well.

Safety

Like all Toyota SUVs, the 4Runner comes standard with the advanced STAR Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake Assist.

Four-channel, four-sensor ABS helps to preserve steering control by preventing the wheels from locking during severe braking situations, while EBD distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions. Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the (ABS), the system supplements the applied braking power.

The VSC system helps keep the Toyota 4Runner going on the driver's intended course by detecting front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to control either condition with torque intervention and/or by braking individual wheels. A VSC-off switch allows the driver to disengage the system, which can be useful in certain driving conditions.

The TRAC feature helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration. Toyota 4Runner 4WD models use an additional yaw sensor, a deceleration sensor, and control algorithms to deliver smoother torque on any surface, including low-range and locked center differential conditions.

Driver and front passenger advanced front airbags inflate according to impact severity. A front passenger seat sensor verifies if a certain amount of weight in the seat is present, determines whether the airbag should inflate, then selects correct inflation power. The standard front and second row roll-sensing side curtain airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags are equipped with a cutoff switch. Cargo-area mirrors located on the D-pillars help enhance visibility when reversing.

Comfort and Convenience

An automatic climate-control system is standard on all Toyota 4Runner models, with the Limited grade adding dual-zone temperature control in front. A multi-information display, located just above the climate control panel, shows the climate control status as well as a clock, outside temperature, fuel range meter, average speed, and average fuel consumption. Standard equipment for the 4Runner SR5 model includes cruise control, power door locks and windows (including rear gate window) with driver's auto up/down function, three 12-volt power outlets, remote keyless entry with rear hatch window power-down operation, and illuminated entry.

The Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition adds a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, high-contrast fabric-trimmed seats and trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. The V8 SR5 and the Sport Edition also come equipped with standard power-adjustable front seats, which are optional for the SR5 V6 models.

The Toyota 4Runner Limited steps up the luxury factor with black wood grain-style interior trim, leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a seat memory system, anti-theft system with engine immobilizer, HomeLink® universal garage door opener, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with compass. The available power moonroof with jam protection features a two-stage automatic wind deflector to help minimize wind noise. The deflector lowers to an intermediate height when the 4Runner is traveling over 55 mph and rises to full height again when vehicle speed drops below 45 mph and the roof is fully open.

A Deluxe AM/FM/CD system with six speakers is standard on SR5 and Sport models and includes a universal mini-jack port to connect most portable music players. All standard and optional audio systems are MP3 and WMA-media compatible.

Standard on the Toyota 4Runner Limited is a Deluxe AM/FM/six-disc in-dash system with six speakers and satellite radio capability.

Urban Runner Package

Adding a new dimension in style, value, and upscale luxury, the Sport Edition is also available in an Urban Runner Package. Standard exterior features include 18-inch six-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, unique rear spoiler, color-keyed grille, Urban Runner badging, XREAS Sport Enhanced Suspension badging, chrome exhaust tip, and black-painted tubular side steps and tubular roof rack with crossbars. The 4Runner Urban Runner is available in only three exterior colors, Black, Titanium Metallic and, new to Toyota 4Runner, Blizzard Pearl.

Inside, the Urban Runner features an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers and a detachable TomTom® personal navigation unit. The system offers WMA/MP3 CD capability, Bluetooth® wireless connectivity, satellite radio capability and available iPod® connectivity. Additional standard interior enhancements include stone Alcantara® fabric seat inserts and dark charcoal bolsters with eight-way power driver seat and four-way power passenger seats, leather-trimmed shift knob, perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio controls, chrome door handles, and black wood-grain-style interior trim.

Optional Urban Runner equipment includes a sunroof, V6 towing package, anti-theft alarm system, daytime running lights, a double deck cargo system with net, HomeLink® universal transceiver, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and a 115-volt AC power outlet.

Options

Available on all grades is a 360-watt JBL Synthesis AM/FM 6-disc in-dash sound system with 10 speakers. The system is satellite-ready, and the option also adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls and cruise control. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is also available with the Deluxe 3-in-1 audio as a stand-alone option. An available factory-installed DVD rear seat entertainment system uses a wide-format nine-inch LCD screen and includes two sets of wireless headphones.

A DVD navigation system is available for all Toyota 4Runner models and is paired with an eight-speaker JBL AM/FM/four-disc in-dash audio system with satellite-ready capability. The system features a touch-screen monitor, Bluetooth® wireless and voice guidance capability which includes more than five million verified data points. The optional navigation system integrates a rear backup camera that automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the system's seven-inch LCD screen when reverse gear is engaged.

Bluetooth® provides a hands-free communication system when using a compatible cell phone. Calls can be dialed by using the navigation screen's keypad, and calls can be received and ended by pushing a button on the steering wheel. The stereo is automatically muted when a call is received, and the stereo speakers act as the phone receiver and transmitter.

Exterior Design

The most popular Toyota 4Runner model, the SR5, is distinguished by a chrome grille, door handles and rear license plate garnish. The SR5 is also equipped with standard fog lamps, black running boards, and six-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels with P265/70 R16 tires - including a full-size spare tire with alloy wheel.

The Toyota 4Runner Sport Edition projects a performance image with a hood scoop, smoked chrome grille and headlight bezels, tubular roof rack and side steps, and six-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels with P265/65 R17 raised white letter tires. The Toyota 4Runner Limited is distinguished by a color-keyed grille and heated power mirrors, black roof rack, black illuminated running boards, and six-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels.

Interior Design

Sporty design and extensive convenience features highlight the 4Runner's spacious and versatile interior. The two-tone dashboard houses a three-pod instrument cluster with orange illumination. A vehicle level sensor detects when the Toyota 4Runner is on an incline and compensates the fuel gauge reading. Exterior glass shields 94 percent or more of UV rays, and water-repellent glass is used for the windshield, side windows, and side mirrors.

The Toyota 4Runner seats up to seven with an available third-row seat option on SR5 and Limited models. The seat can fold over or be removed when additional cargo space is needed. The 60/40-split fold-down rear seatbacks fold flat easily with no need to remove the headrests. An extra-wide fold-down rear seat center armrest integrates a pull-out convenience tray with two cup holders. Interior storage includes large bins in all doors.

When Toyota 4Runner is equipped with the available third row, the middle row tumbles forward for easy third row access. The rear gate's standard power window includes jam protection, as well as an electric power close function to ensure it is not left partially ajar.

The large rear cargo area provides tie-down hooks on the floor and additional storage hooks on the sidewalls. A "double-decker" cargo system with cargo net is standard on Toyota 4Runner Limited and optional for others. The cargo shelf can lie flat or be lifted up easily with one hand and locked in place to accommodate larger items (up to 66 pounds).