2017 Chevrolet Camaro Turbo AutoX Concept


The new Chevrolet Camaro Turbo AutoX concept combines the LTG 2.0L turbocharged engine with a performance suspension, brake system, air intake and exhaust system. It melds the Camaro's excellent power-to-weight ratio with more agile handling that's ideal for autocross enthusiasts.

"This concept pushes Camaro in a new direction, integrating new performance parts that make the most of the turbocharged Camaro's lightweight dynamics," said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.

The concept features the Chevrolet Performance suspension lowering kit, which includes stiffer springs and specifically tuned dampers and lowers the ride height up to 0.75 inch (20mm). It is matched with a concept "plus performance" handling kit including larger stabilizer bars and stiffer suspension links. A concept strut tower brace under the hood provides additional chassis stiffness. The whole system contributes to improved roll stiffness and quicker turn-in performance.

AutoX rolls on concept Chevrolet Accessories 20-inch aluminum wheels and Goodyear 285/35R20 performance tires. Engineers added Chevrolet Performance's front brake kit, featuring six-piston calipers and 370mm, two-piece slotted rotors.

Watch This Video: 2017 Chevrolet Camaro Turbo AutoX Concept

 


For maximum performance lap after lap, a concept cold-air intake system has been fitted to the 2.0L turbo engine and a calibration upgrade to its controller optimizes performance across the rpm band. The turbocharger generates up to 20 pounds of boost and its twin-scroll design helps make the most of the usable power from the engine, practically eliminating turbo lag and helping deliver a broad powerband.

A Chevrolet Performance exhaust system with a polished 4-inch outlet offers a throatier exhaust note and reduces backpressure by approximately 14 percent. An Active Noise Cancellation calibration update is included for vehicles with the Bose® stereo system.

"It's a great engine for an autocross course because the strong torque production means you can hold a lower gear and just run through the cones without constant shifting," said Mark Dickens, director of Performance Variants and Parts. "And with the concept handling package providing amazing handling, this car is simply a blast to drive ― and a real surprise for some of the tuner drivers."

Track-challenging style


"Appearance is very important to the owners of vehicles like this, and the Camaro Turbo AutoX concept was designed to be both race- and show-worthy," said Adam Barry, Chevrolet designer. "The new Shock Yellow color on the concept reaches out to the new generation of enthusiasts and explores how the Gen 6 Camaro looks in brighter, bolder hues."

The Shock Yellow color is complemented with Pearl Nickel hood stripes and satin Carbon Flash Metallic accents on the hood vents, rockers and rear diffuser. The vented hood comes from the Camaro SS, while the rear diffuser and rockers were borrowed from a Chevrolet Accessories ground effects kit. The front splitter is also from the SS model, but is modified for the concept. There's a front tow hook, GoPro camera mount, export side marker lamps and an all-new, accessory rear spoiler that's making its debut on the concept.

The black, leather-trimmed interior mixes style with track-ready functionality, including a suede-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel and shift knob and boot, and a carbon-fiber instrument panel insert. A bolt-in harness bar mounts a five-point safety harness.

2017 Kia Optima - Perfect Sedan!!



Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid (HEV) at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. The Optima HEV enjoys the same full redesign - inside and out - as the conventional gas-powered model, the all-new fourth-generation Optima sedan, bringing with it a new hybrid powertrain that targets a 10 percent improvement in fuel economy over the outgoing model. The enhanced HEV blends modern styling and a premium driving experience with an even more intense focus on efficiency and is being introduced under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics environmentally friendly sub-brand.
"Kia is pursuing a bold initiative to increase fuel efficiency by 25 percent across our entire model line-up by 2020, and new models like the Optima HEV and PHEV will be critical to realizing that vision," said Orth Hedrick, vice president, product planning, KMA. "The brand's commitment to sustainability, coupled with our history of delivering premium amenities and value, has never been more evident than in these all-new hybrid vehicles, which are world-class examples of green engineering, advanced technology and design."

Watch This Video :  2017 Kia Optima Review 

 

 

Enhanced Hybrid Performance

 

Targeting a 10 percent increase in fuel economy, the Optima Hybrid replaces the previous generation's 2.4-liter engine with an efficient and compact 2.0-liter GDI four cylinder - estimated at 154 horsepower - coupled with a hybrid starter generator and tied to an upgraded, smooth-shifting six-speed transmission. A 38 kW electric motor and clutch replaces the traditional torque converter to provide strong off-the-line acceleration and power assistance to the engine when necessary. Energy flow is fast and seamless between EV mode and hybrid mode. Total combined output for the Optima Hybrid is estimated at a robust 193 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. Also adding to the equation is a new electric water pump and a new electric oil pump, which help improve overall fuel economy.

Giving life to the electric motor is a more compact, lightweight, high-density lithium-polymer battery pack with a 13-percent increase in capacity to 1.62 kWh. With improved packaging, this more potent energy source now fits neatly underneath the trunk floor without encroaching into cargo space. The revised battery configuration results in a larger, more practical load area and allows the integration of 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
All-new Eco-DAS (Driver Assistance System) features Kia's first application of Coasting Guide. This feature aims at maximizing fuel economy by essentially coaching the driver on when to coast and brake via an icon in the Instrument Panel that blinks for four-seconds and sounds a one-time audible alert.
The Optima Hybrid features a uniquely engineered body that combines various high-tensile strength steel alloys, creating a stiffer, more durable chassis with more than 50 percent Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) construction. In addition, a significant increase in hot-stamped components and greater use of structural adhesive improves NVH and contributes to structural rigidity. This new body structure helps provide crash protection and better driving dynamics and is the foundation for a quieter ride.

 

Aerodynamic Form and Function

 

Although the new Hybrid boasts the same bold styling as the redesigned 2016 Optima, it offers distinctive design features and exterior elements that differentiate it from the gas-powered models in the Optima range, while also achieving a coefficient of drag that is among the lowest in the segment at 0.24 Cd. Featuring an active grille, which automatically opens and closes at high and low speeds, the Hybrid is able to improve aerodynamics while optimizing engine bay cooling. Numerous other styling differences include a model-specific front air curtain, a beveled rear bumper, a rear diffuser designed to streamline airflow by shrouding the exhaust tip, and an aerodynamic alloy-wheel design. These are complemented by modern LED lighting, satin finish accent trim and special 'EcoHybrid' badging.

Watch This Video : 2017 Kia Optima - Perfect Sedan!!


Intelligent Technology

 

The new Optima Hybrid makes intelligent use of technology to deliver a host of comprehensive driver assistance systems and convenience features. The HEV now offers Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), which, under appropriate conditions, will bring the vehicle to a complete stop to potentially avoid a collision or reduce damage. Other key driver assistance systems include Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) and Front Collision Warning System (FCWS).
To make life on the road easier and more enjoyable, the Optima Hybrid brings convenience offerings such as the Hands-free Trunk Open feature with Smart Key, a Wireless Phone Charger and Surround View Monitoring (SVM) to aid parking maneuvers.
Kia's cutting-edge connectivity system with smartphone-projected navigation, UVO3, comes standard with UVO telematics, and is enhanced with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®, which allow drivers to access a suite of core functions from their smartphones. There's also an upgraded AVN 4.0 Navigation system combined with the Harman/Kardon QuantumLogic™ Premium Surround Sound Audio System, which includes 10 speakers, Clari-Fi™ technology and a 630-watt digital amplifier. Clari-Fi is a patented music restoration technology that rebuilds audio signals that are lost in the digital compression process.

 

Refined Cabin

The Optima Hybrid's passenger compartment is larger and more comfortable with an innovative and functional cabin that is well-appointed with class-up touches. Drawing inspiration from Kia's premium sedans, the Optima Hybrid features its own model-specific instrument panel gauges and utilizes more soft-touch materials throughout. Obsessively crafted with an impressive attention to detail, the interior features real stitching along the dash and doors.
Overall, the driver-oriented cabin has been simplified with a cleaner, more unified design than the previous generation. A stronger horizontal plane and a wider center console help create a greater sense of space. By grouping and reducing the number of functional keys and buttons, Kia's already-superior ergonomics are markedly improved.
The interior design team also paid particular attention to seat comfort with a stiffer seat frame that reduces vibration, as well as greater use of soft foam in the headrest and upper back, and denser, more supportive foam in thigh-support areas. For extra convenience, heated and ventilated front seats are available with power adjustable driver and front passenger seats. The 2017 Optima Hybrid also offers a height-adjustable front passenger seat, a feature normally found only in premium vehicles.

2018 Volkswagen Atlas - Perfect SUV!!




World premiere of the Volkswagen Atlas in California! The new seven-seater SUV for the US market was unveiled on the Santa Monica Pier at the end of historic Route 66. The VW Atlas launches a new chapter in the company's American history. The new model will be built in Chattanooga (Tennessee) for the North American market and offers innovative technology and spaciousness. In addition, the new Atlas thrills with hallmark Volkswagen driving dynamics and attention to detail.

Watch This Video:  2018 Volkswagen Atlas - Perfect SUV!!



 "This is the biggest and boldest Volkswagen we have ever built in the United States, delivering the distinctive design and craftsmanship we're known for, now with room for seven," said Hinrich J. Woebcken, Volkswagen CEO of North America Region.

The Volkswagen Atlas opens up an important segment for the brand: midsize SUVs, as the Americans call them, already formed a tenth of all new registrations in the USA in 2015. For the first time, Volkswagen's Atlas now offers a model in this high-volume class in the category between the Tiguan and the Touareg that is fully tailored to American needs.

Building on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) from Volkswagen, the Atlas is born with the latest Volkswagen design DNA. Classic proportions and clean lines that create a sense of timelessness and precision. Up front, standard LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights combine for a unique visual signature, with optional LED taillights to complete the look.

With a length of 5,037 mm (198.3 inches), a width of 1,979 mm (77.9 inches) and a height of 1,768 mm (69.6 inches) the 2018 Atlas is larger than any other Volkswagen on sale in the USA.


Inside, the VW Atlas makes maximum use of its dimensions to offer space for seven adults and their luggage. The third row can be easily reached by an innovative folding seat solution. Clear, driver-centric displays enhance the driving experience. In addition, the optional Active Info Display (called the "Volkswagen Digital Cockpit" in the USA) allows drivers extensive options for configuring the display.

Watch This Video:  2018 Volkswagen Atlas - Perfect SUV!! 




2018 Volkswagen ATLAS - World Premiere Volkswagen Car-Net offers a wide range of online services, including standard App-Connect technology that offers integration with the three major smartphone platforms - Apple CarPlay™, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink®. The new Atlas model also features a Fender® Premium Audio System offering a sophisticated sound experience with twelve speakers and a 480 Watt amplifier.
The Volkswagen Atlas offers a selection of premium SUV driver assistance features. Depending on the equipment line, these include: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist); Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert; Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist), and Parking Steering Assistant (Park Assist).
The Volkswagen Atlas is also the only vehicle in its class to offer the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. This automatically initiates a deceleration of the vehicle when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus helping reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage.

The new Volkswagen Atlas arrives with a choice of two powertrains: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder TSI with gasoline direct injection and turbo charging with 175 kW / 238 PS and the already available 3.6-liter VR6 engine with 206 kW / 280 PS. Both engines route power through an eight-speed transmission.

The Atlas can be configured either as front-wheel-drive or with 4Motion all-wheel-drive in combination with the VR6 engine. The 4Motion system has a Driving Mode Selection feature that allows the driver to select specific parameters based on driving conditions. US Environmental Protection Agency EPA fuel economy estimates will be released ahead of the launch in Spring of 2017.

The 2018 Atlas will be built alongside the Passat for North America at the Volkswagen Chattanooga assembly plant (Tennessee). Volkswagen has invested an additional €900 million in the facility. The Chattanooga plant is the only automotive manufacturing facility in the world to receive Platinum certification for its environmental excellence by the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) program.

From the end of 2017 this large SUV will be offered in the Russia and Middle East markets.

2017 Kia Rio Hatchback - Perfect Car!!



The new Kia Rio will make its world debut at the 2016 Paris Motor Show. The Rio is the Korean manufacturer's global best-selling model, with more than 473,000 sold around the world in 2015, accounting for 16 per cent of Kia's annual sales. The UK contributed to this with 12,115 Rios sold in 2015, which was 15 per cent of the UK's total sales.
Now entering its fourth generation, the new Kia Rio will offer B-segment buyers a compelling package, with an attractive new design, high practicality and convenience, class-first safety technology, new connectivity features and more engaging ride and handling.
Michael Cole, Chief Operating Officer for Kia Motors Europe, commented: "The Rio is an important car for Kia, as our best-selling model worldwide. The B-segment is one of the most hotly-contested areas of the new car market, and the third-generation Rio helped introduce more people to the Kia brand than ever before.
"As a gateway to the brand, the Rio has typically offered an attractive design, low running costs and practicality. It's for these reasons that the current model has sold in record numbers around the world. The new model will build on these key strengths, with higher desirability, a more enjoyable drive and the most advanced safety features in its class."
Designed and engineered to meet the needs and desires of a wider range of buyers, the new Rio will play an increasingly important role in the Kia model line-up. The B-segment is the largest market segment in the European new car market, and Kia anticipates that the new Rio will attract over 100,000 buyers in its first full year on-sale. This will place the Rio alongside Kia's best-selling models in Europe, the Sportage and cee'd.

The new Kia Rio will be manufactured at Kia's Sohari manufacturing facility in Korea, and will go on sale globally during the first quarter of 2017.

Exterior design: Defined by straight lines and smooth surfaces

The Kia Rio's progressive new exterior and interior design was led by Kia's design centres in Germany and California, in close collaboration with the company's domestic design base in Namyang, Korea. The appearance of the new Rio is defined by straight lines and smooth surfacing, giving the car a distinctive new look and more mature character than its predecessor.
At the front, the Rio wears the latest evolution of Kia's 'tiger-nose' grille, now thinner in height and wider across the front of the car, with a gloss black grille cover. The grille is integrated with the newly-designed bi-function headlights, more sculpted for a sharper look, and featuring a new U-shaped LED daytime running light signature. The Rio's front fog light surrounds are moved outwards and upwards in the front bumper compared to their position on the third-generation model, adding greater visual width to the front of the car for a stronger overall look. The longer bonnet features bracket-shaped creases that run down from the base of the A-pillars to the grille and headlights.
In profile, the fourth-generation Rio's lengthened, more balanced stance is achieved with a long bonnet and longer front overhang, a 10 mm longer wheelbase (up to 2,580 mm), a thinner, more upright C-pillar, and a shorter rear overhang. Overall, the new car is 15 mm longer than its predecessor, at 4,065 mm in length, and 5 mm lower (now 1,450 mm tall). Straight, clearly-defined lines run down the full length of the car's shoulder and along its doors, further stretching the appearance of the car for a more confident look.
The rear section of the Rio is now more upright, with a near-vertical rear windscreen and a shorter overhang. The straight line that runs from the grille, through the headlights and along the top of the doors, continues around the back of the car, paired with thinner, more sculpted rear lamps, which now feature a new arrow-shaped LED light signature. Like the wider-looking 'face' of the car, the rear design of the new Rio gives the car a stronger overall appearance.
When the new Rio goes on sale across Europe, it will be available in a choice of eight exterior colours and a choice of three aluminium alloy wheel designs, ranging from 15-inch to 17-inch in diameter. The Rio will be sold as a five door model in Europe.
Interior design: Modern cabin with new floating HMI
The new Kia Rio features a modern new cabin, with more sculptural forms and a more ergonomic layout than its predecessor. The interior has also been designed to accommodate the Rio's new range of technologies.
Like the exterior, straight lines running the width of the dashboard characterise the shape of the interior, giving the cabin a wider appearance and increasing the sense of space for occupants. As well as long, lateral lines that govern the shape of the dashboard, horizontal vents further add to the visual width of the cabin, replacing the vertical vents of the third-generation model. Gloss black trim lines the central section of the dashboard.
The dashboard itself is now angled towards the driver, a layout which provides the car with a sportier, more driver-focused design and a more premium character. At the centre of the dashboard is a 'floating' HMI (human-machine interface), available with a high-resolution touchscreen. Below, the driver-oriented centre console features fewer buttons, with more ergonomic, concave switches and rotator dials below to control the heating and ventilation.
The new Kia Rio is available with a choice of black or grey cloth seat upholstery, or with black or grey artificial leather. A 'Red Pack' for the Rio gives buyers black with red artificial leather-trimmed seats throughout the cabin.
New technologies further boost the appeal of the Rio's cabin. Designed to improve comfort and convenience for owners, the new model is available with keyless entry and ignition, heated seats and steering wheel, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, and automatic headlamps. The new model is also available with Automatic Cruise Control, with a speed limiter, and Rear Park Assist with a rear view camera (see 'Safety' for more information on the Rio's new safety systems).
Practicality: Greater cabin and boot space, with improved all-round visibility
The Kia Rio will have the most spacious cabin and one of the highest boot capacities (325 litres) of any car in its class when it goes on sale, with practicality a key focus for the Rio's development and engineering teams.
The Rio's 10 mm-longer wheelbase and 15mm-longer body contribute to larger cabin and boot dimensions. Leg room grows to 1,120 mm in the front and 770 mm in the rear, while the new model offers more shoulder room than most other cars in its class - 1,375 mm in the front and 1,355 in the rear. Despite the new Rio being 5 mm shorter in height than the outgoing model, front and rear headroom (1,021 mm and 966 mm respectively) are among the best in the B-segment.
These improvements to space in the cabin have been achieved with a series of changes to the Rio's packaging. These include re-profiled door trims, the adoption of new headlining materials, and changes to the shape of the dashboard, as well as more significant changes to the bodyshell of the Rio - such as the longer wheelbase.
Furthermore, thinner C-pillars - reduced in width by 87 mm - and relocated door mirrors (moved up to the base of the A-pillar) help minimise the size of the driver's blind spots and improve all-round visibility. A lower window line around the cabin and new quarterlights at the tail end of the rear doors also give the driver and passengers a better view out.
The Kia Rio's cabin offers more storage space than before. At the base of the centre console is an open double tray to store mobile devices and other small items, and the overhead console includes an area to store sunglasses. The glove compartment is also a single-box shape. The new Rio has bottle holders in every door (to accommodate 1.5-litre bottles in the front and 0.5-litre bottles in the rear of the car) and two larger cupholders in the front. The doors also feature closed-bottom storage holes in the door handles, useful for small items such as a phone or coins. An optional armrest is available, adding further storage capacity to the cabin.
Luggage capacity has also increased by 37 litres to 325 litres (VDA; +13 per cent), among the best in class. This extra space has been achieved in spite of the Rio's rear overhang being shortened by 15 mm to 655 mm, a key element of the car's new design. The new Rio features a split-level boot floor, which enables owners to change the height of the boot floor to fit items under the floor to prevent objects rolling around, or to keep them out of sight. The Rio is fitted as standard with split-folding rear seats and a tyre mobility kit under the boot floor. Buyers can specify an optional spare wheel.
The fuel tank, which is located under the rear bench, is 45 litres in size, two litres larger than the earlier model.

  
Watch the video below: 2017 Kia Rio Hatchback - Perfect Car!!


Powertrains: Efficient new T-GDI engines with low emissions and instant responses

The new Kia Rio will be powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines when it goes on sale in 2017, each offering high efficiency and willing acceleration.
An increasing customer appetite for downsized, turbocharged engines has led to the adoption of Kia's latest three-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDI (turbo gasoline direct injection) engines. The lightweight and compact new engine was introduced for the first time in the upgraded Kia cee'd in 2015 and is expected to account for the majority of Rio sales when the new model goes on sale. As well as offering high efficiency and low emissions, the lightweight nature of the new T-GDI engines benefit the Rio's keen front-end handling, with less mass and inertia for the car to work against under cornering.
Customers ordering their Rio with the 1.0-litre T-GDI engine can choose between 98 or 118 bhp power outputs. The 98 bhp engine produces peak power at 4,500 rpm and 172 Nm torque from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm .The higher-powered 118 bhp engine produces the same torque output across the same band of engine speeds, while power is accessible at a higher 6,000 rpm peak. Now in the latter stages of testing and development, both engines are expected to deliver sub-100 g/km CO2 emissions (NEDC, combined). The Rio's Idle Stop & Go (ISG) system will see emissions reduced even further, pending homologation.
Alongside the 1.0-litre T-GDI, the Kia Rio is offered with naturally-aspirated 1.25-litre and 1.4-litre MPI (multi-point injection) petrol engines. The 82 bhp 1.25-litre engine produces its peak power at 6,000 rpm and 122 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm; the 1.4-litre produces 90 bhp at 6,000 rpm and 132 Nm torque at 4,000 rpm. Pending final homologation tests, both engines are expected to deliver CO2 emissions of under 120 g/km.
For even lower emissions, the new Rio will also be sold with a 1.4-litre diesel engine, producing either 69 or 88 bhp. Regardless of power output, the 1.4-litre diesel engine will be capable of producing the lowest CO2 emissions levels in the Rio line-up - Kia engineers are targeting CO2 emissions under 90 g/km with ISG.
All engines apply power to the front wheels, either through a five-speed manual transmission for 1.25-litre and 98 bhp 1.0-litre T-GDI gasoline engines; or a six-speed manual transmission for the 1.4-litre gasoline engine, the higher-output 118 ps 1.0-litre T-GDI engine, and both 1.4-litre diesel engines.

Safety: ADAS assistive technologies and a five-star Euro NCAP target

The new Kia Rio will be one of the safest cars in its class when it goes on sale, available with a package of Kia's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The new Rio is built on high-strength steel body and features a wide array of passive safety equipment - the car is engineered to meet the most demanding crash safety test criteria around the world.
Targeting a five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating when fitted with optional ADAS technology, the Rio will be the first car in the B-segment to feature Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian recognition. The Rio's AEB system uses a long-range radar detection system to detect potential collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians and helps bring the car to a halt. AEB is paired with a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), which alerts the driver if they stray out of their lane on the road without the use of indicators.
The bodyshell of the new Rio is made up of a significant proportion of Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS). The extensive use of AHSS in the body of the Rio is part of a wider effort by Kia to achieve a 5 per cent reduction in the average weight of new car bodies by 2020 when compared to 2014, while enabling greater safety and security. 51 per cent of the new Rio's body is made out of strong, light AHSS, compared to 33 per cent in the third-generation model.
The higher application of AHSS has strengthened the passenger cabin 'cell' for greater occupant safety and more effective distribution of impact forces. The stronger steel has been used to reinforce the A- and B-pillars, as well as side sills, roof structure, engine bay and floor pan.
The new Rio is fitted with six airbags throughout the cabin, as well as ISOFIX child-seat tether and anchor points for front and rear passenger seats.

Driving: More engaging and stable handling with a comfortable ride

As well as being incredibly safe to drive, the new Rio seeks to build on the level of driver engagement offered by the third-generation model. Kia's chassis development teams have sought to introduce greater driving appeal, with more agile and immediate handling, while improving ride comfort. The Rio sits on fully-independent MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear axle.
The development of a stiffer bodyshell gave R&D teams the freedom to develop a more compliant suspension system. The new Rio benefits from a revised spring and damper set-up than the outgoing model, improving the car's compliance and comfort at all speeds, while facilitating the car's more enjoyable, engaging handling characteristics.
Compared to the third-generation model, the modifications to the Rio's chassis include: more rigid front suspension struts and cross member and a raised rear torsion beam for high-speed stability; the adoption of new vertical rear shock absorbers and front shock absorbers with pre-loaded linear valve technology, both resulting in more linear handling and suspension response over broken road surfaces; and a repositioned power steering gearbox, to enable greater 'on-centre' feel through the steering wheel. The changes to the chassis are designed to endow the Rio with more immediate handling responses and improve the level of confidence that the driver has behind the wheel.
On top of the new package of ADAS technologies, the new Rio is fitted as standard with Kia's Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). VSM ensures stability under braking and cornering, detecting a loss in traction and using ESC to help the driver keep the car on course.

Connectivity: full Android and Apple smartphone integration

At the centre of the dashboard is the new infotainment system, housing Kia's latest HMI (human-machine interface). The new Rio is available with a 'floating' 5.0-inch touchscreen audio system with six speakers. Buyers can also specify a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system, with Kia Connected Services powered by TomTom®, as well asAndroid Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ for full smartphone integration.
The Kia Connected Services connectivity package offers drivers a wide range of up-to-date information, including live traffic updates, speed camera locations and alerts, local point-of-interest search and weather forecasts. Available in cars equipped with navigation Kia's Connected Services will be available free of charge for European buyers for seven years after the car's purchase.
The Kia Rio's Android Auto™ system is designed to work with Android phones running 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher. Available from launch, Android Auto™ connects to the user's phone and lets them access smartphone apps and functions through the in-car infotainment system, such as voice-guided Google Maps navigation, hands-free calls and texts and voice recognition. Android Auto™ also lets users stream music from Google Play Music™ and other services.
Apple CarPlay™, for iPhone 5 or newer, will enable full Siri voice control to control the phone's various functions and apps, including navigation via Apple Maps, calls and text dictation. Apple CarPlay™ also supports other audio apps that the user may have downloaded to their iPhone - such as music streaming or audiobook services.
The Kia Rio will be the first car in the B-segment to be equipped with USB ports in both the front and rear of the cabin, enabling users to physically connect a mobile device to the Rio's infotainment system, and recharge batteries on the move.

On sale: New Kia Rio arrives in Europe in early 2017

The all-new Kia Rio will go on sale across Europe in the first quarter of 2017, with the company's unique 7-Year, 100,000 mile warranty as standard.

FIRST LOOK: 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback


FIRST LOOK: 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback

Arriving in fall 2016 in North America, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback is the latest addition to the much-heralded 10th-generation Honda Civic lineup, joining the 2016 North American Car of the Year - the Civic Sedan, and the Civic Coupe that launched in early 2016. The 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback combines striking, Euro-inspired styling and five-door versatility with the Civic's world-class driving dynamics and Honda direct-injected turbo engine technology. The Civic Hatchback, scheduled to arrive this fall at Honda dealers nationwide, also will serve as the basis for the radical new Civic Type-R launching in the U.S. in 2017.

"The Civic Hatch has been a staple for Honda in Europe, but has long been the forbidden fruit for Honda fans in the U.S.," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "Now, we're bringing this sporty, stylish and versatile Civic Hatchback to North America, as we amp up the performance of our incredible Civic lineup with each new Civic model."

Watch the video below : 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback




Built on the same world-class platform as the 10th-generation Civic Sedan and Coupe, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback offers an appealing combination of sporty styling, efficiency, interior utility and premium features. The Civic Hatchback will be available in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Sport Touring trims, and will feature a single engine for the U.S. market: a 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder with peak output of 174 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque in LX, EX and EX-L trims and 180 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque in the Sport and an all-new Sport Touring grade, which feature a high-flow center-mounted exhaust.

The turbocharged engine will be offered with either a sporty CVT (all trims) or a performance-inspired 6-speed manual transmission (LX, Sport, and EX trims). Anticipated EPA fuel economy ratings of 31/40/34 mpg (city/highway/combined) for CVT-equipped models, based on the newer, more stringent model year 2017 EPA ratings requirements, put the 5-door Honda Civic Hatchback at the top of its class.

Working in concert with the Honda turbocharged powertrain is the Civic's more rigid and lightweight body and sophisticated chassis design, featuring a fully independent suspension system with liquid filled bushings, front and rear; sport-tuned electronic power steering with variable gear ratios; and powerful 4-channel anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution and Hill Start Assist.

The interior of the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback carries through on the modern, sophisticated and premium quality of the 10th-generation Civic lineup, with high-grade materials and finishes applied liberally throughout. In terms of packaging, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback delivers class-leading volume and cargo capacity, including a roomy interior (122.9 cu. ft.), best rear seat legroom (36.0 inches) and largest cargo carrying capacity in the competitive set.

Available on most trims (and standard on Sport Touring) will be the Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) integrated with CMBS, Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning integrated with RDM and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow. Other available features include Honda Display Audio with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ (EX and above trims), heated front seats and heated side mirrors, power driver and front-passenger seats, remote engine start and more.

The Honda Civic Hatchback's all-new Sport Touring grade makes Honda Sensing™, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ and LED headlights as standard equipment, while adding heated rear seats and other features.

The Honda Civic Hatchback will target top-class safety ratings - an NCAP 5-star Overall Vehicle Score and an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK rating with a GOOD rating in all crash test modes and a SUPERIOR rating in frontal crash prevention, when equipped with Honda Sensing.

The 2017 Civic Hatchback was developed jointly by Honda R&D teams in Europe and Japan and will be manufactured exclusively by Honda of the UK Manufacturing in its Swindon, UK plant.

2017 Mazda3 Raises the Standard with G-Vectoring Control, Refined Performance


2017 Mazda3
Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today introduced the U.S.-spec 2017 Mazda3, which gains notable improvements in refinement, packaging and handling.

The 2017 Mazda3’s exterior tweaks are subtle, but effectively elevate the vehicle’s KODO—Soul of Motion design, adding a bolder grille, available LED headlights and tail lights, and a redesigned rear bumper on five-door models that extends an upscale, monochromatic look to the lower valences. Occupants are treated to an interior that should make anyone seriously question the need to go for a more expensive offering from any other car company.

Perforated black or almond-colored leather seating surfaces are available. The 2017 Mazda3’s leather-wrapped steering wheel has been redesigned for a more comfortable grip, and is newly available with heating elements, a rare feature in its class.

Other interior improvements include an electronic parking brake as standard equipment, freeing up space for storage, and a sliding covered center console design borrowed from its big brother, the Mazda6. Front passengers are treated with storage space in new door pockets that are three times larger than in previous models.

Alas, pragmatism is nothing without purpose, which Mazda3 delivers without compromise. The new Mazda3 will come standard with G-Vectoring Control (GVC), an all-new, Mazda-exclusive technology that uses the engine in conjunction with the steering, throttle inputs and suspension to provide sharper chassis control, leading to a need for fewer steering corrections and greater driver- and passenger-confidence.


Watch the video below: 2017 Mazda 3 - Crazy Headlights




Much as Mazda3’s already engaging steering has improved with GVC, Mazda’s engineers have upped the ante with improved NVH damping, too. The 2017 Mazda3 is a substantial 3dB quieter 25 mph over rough roads, thanks to tighter body gaps, improved sound insulation and redesigned weather stripping versus its 2016 predecessor.

With the 2017 updates also come the adoption of available Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring and Traffic Sign Recognition as well as a new, full-color Active Driving Display. These safety features complement Mazda3’s i-ACTIVSENSE suite, which includes Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Smart City Brake Support and Smart Brake Support for highway speeds.

All of these improvements add up to a compelling offering that should captivate those who value the serenity of a winding back road on a Sunday afternoon, yet still crave a practical, attractive and efficient vehicle.

The 2017 Mazda3 arrives in dealers in September, with pricing and packing to be announced closer to its on-sale date.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif., and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States and Mexico through nearly 700 dealers. Operations in Mexico are managed by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Source: Mazda

FIRST LOOK: 2017 Mazda 6


FIRST LOOK: 2017 Mazda 6
The Mazda6 received a full redesign for the 2014 model year, and every year since then, it has added some thoughtful updates. The upcoming model year is no different, and the 2017 Mazda6 returns with just a few changes.

Mazda says the new model features an improved interior. Nappa leather seats with contrast stitching are available on Grand Touring models with the Premium Package, which also brings a black headliner, metallic accents, heated steering wheel, heated rear outboard seats, and regenerative braking. Meanwhile, all entry-level Mazda6 Sport models now come standard with the Mazda Connect infotainment system.

Watch the video below: 2017 Mazda 6 




Other updates include tighter door seals, thicker front glass, and increased sound insulation materials to reduce cabin noise. An improved head-up display now features full color, and Grand Touring models also receive a 4.6-inch full-color TFT meter display. Drivers benefit from a host of new safety features, including Traffic Sign Recognition, lane-keep-assist, and Advanced Blind Spot Monitoring.

As we previously reported, the 2017 Mazda6 gains G-Vectoring Control, which uses the car’s onboard computer to minimize steering inputs made unconsciously, correct understeer, minimize roll, and reduce jerkiness. The Mazda6, along with the updated 2017 Mazda3, will be the automaker’s first model in North America to receive the technology, which first debuted in Japan on the updated Mazda Axela.

The new Mazda6 arrives in U.S. dealerships this September. Prices will be announced at a later date.

Source: Mazda

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Review

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Review

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) showed the much-anticipated production model of the all-new 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) at the 2016 New York International Auto Show. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a perfect culmination of Mitsubishi's history of automotive excellence: 50 years of electromobility and decades of four-wheel drive technology honed on the international rally circuit. Featuring a highly efficient 2.0-liter gas engine and two high-performance electric motors, and Mitsubishi's superior Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a very capable PHEV. The Outlander PHEV will arrive at Mitsubishi showrooms in fall 2016.

"What makes the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV so special is that it offers the best of both worlds with a balance of electric efficiency and long-range practicality," said Don Swearingen, executive vice president, MMNA. "Mitsubishi put its engineering prowess and knowledge to work to create a vehicle that meets the demand of a growing number of consumers who need a car that is capable and environmentally friendly. The Outlander PHEV will offer a high electric range and combined miles per gallon (MPG)."


Watch the video below : 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Review






The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is highlighted by the full-time, twin-electric motor 4WD system that provides quick and optimized torque distribution. The motors are mounted separately at the front and rear axles to deliver precise, responsive 4WD performance with the S-AWC system ensuring excellent driving stability and intuitive, linear handling. The battery that supplies the electricity for the motors is a high-capacity 12kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

Three drive modes are available: EV (full electric mode), series hybrid (electric power with generator operation) and parallel hybrid (engine power and electric motor assistance). The PHEV system automatically selects the most efficient drive mode given the road conditions and other factors. The system also features a regenerative braking mode, where electricity is captured under braking.

The S-AWC system found on the Outlander PHEV is a specialized application of Lancer Evolution-derived Super All-Wheel Control developed specifically for the Outlander PHEV's unique twin electric motor configuration for maximum performance, efficiency, tractability and safety.

Advanced safety and convenience features will be available on Outlander PHEV, including: Multi-Around view Camera Monitor, Forward Collision Mitigation with pedestrian detection capability, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and available smartphone integrations including Apple CarPlay™, the smarter, safer way to use your iPhone in the car, lets drivers make calls, get directions optimized for traffic conditions, listen to music, and access messages. It will also support Android Auto™ extends the Android™ platform into the car in a way that's purpose-built for driving.

2017 Toyota C-HR Review


2017 Toyota C-HR Review

Designed to stand out both within the Toyota line-up and in its segment, the all-new Toyota C-HR - or Coupé High-Rider - represents Akio Toyoda's determination to allow greater stylistic freedom and promote engineering creativity in order to achieve eye-catching designs and enhanced driving pleasure.

The Toyota C-HR remains remarkably true to the general features of the concept-cars that attracted so much public attention in Paris in 2014 and in Frankfurt in 2015. Its coupe-like lines are a testimony to the resolve of its designers to create a style that stands out in the Toyota range, and to establish a new direction amongst mid-sized crossovers.

With the C-HR, Toyota targets a clear and singular customer profile. Predominantly driven by emotional considerations, these customers want individuality, and to be the first to try new experiences and products. Style and quality are essential considerations in any purchase they make, and the car is an extension of their personality.

Inspired by what he learned from meeting with these customers, C-HR Chief Engineer Hiroyuki Koba focused persistently on their requirements throughout the development process, setting high demands for design and perceived quality.

The Toyota C-HR's unique character demonstrates the flexibility that the TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) gives to vehicle developers in the three key areas of design, powertrain and dynamics, enabling them to deliver a new and fresh take on the increasingly commoditized crossover segment.

Pre-sales will begin throughout Europe in September 2016, with the first deliveries to customers before the end of the year. Positioned between the Auris TS and the RAV4, C-HR targets upwards of 100,000 annual European sales.

Watch the video below : 2017 Toyota C-HR Review



 

A New Design Direction for the Crossover Segment

'Crossover users want something special, something that a traditional SUV cannot offer. They want a high driving position, but they don't want the boxy shape of an off-roader. And they also want an agile driving feel. With the C-HR, we are trying to introduce a new value into the C crossover market, and that newness comes from SUV robustness and strength. But we're not trying to make an SUV that's dynamic, rather, a dynamic vehicle with SUV-like properties.' Kazuhiko Isawa, Chief Designer C-HR

The all-new Toyota C-HR introduces a distinctive styling that brings newfound dynamism and sensuality to the crossover market.

4360mm long, 1795mm wide, 1555mm high (Hybrid) and with a 2640mm wheelbase, the production vehicle remains remarkably true to the concept car's exterior which was first shown at the Paris Motorshow in 2014, and which registered extremely well with target customers.

Under the concept of "Sensual Speed-Cross", and featuring a diamond architectural theme with wheel arches projecting prominently at all four corners to emphasise the new crossover's strength and rigidity, the C-HR modulated structure combines a powerful lower body and raised ground clearance with the slim and sleek cabin profile of a coupe.

Viewed from any angle, the C-HR's combination of facetted gemstone-like shapes with fluid surfaces and elegantly integrated detailing create a delicate balance of precision and sensuality.

The front represents a further development of Toyota's Under Priority and Keen Look design identity. The slender upper grille flows from the Toyota badge into the sleek, aggressive wing extremities of the headlamp clusters and wraps fully around the front corners of the vehicle.

The movement of the blacked out rocker panel towards the front and rear wheels, along with the shoulder axis that runs through to the front and rear, emphasise the fast-looking, 'lift-up' feel of the thin body.

The C-HR's coupe-like styling is further enhanced by disguised rear door handles integrated within the C pillar and, essential to the representation of speed within the design, the powerful projection of the sweeping roofline into a large, highly aerodynamic, skeletal frame rear spoiler.

To the rear, the strongly tapered cabin integrates a top-hinged tailgate giving access to the loadspace. This contrasts with the pronounced flaring of the wheel arches, which give the new crossover a wide and extremely powerful stance.

Standing proud of the tapering body work, prominent rear light clusters may also be equipped with LED lamp technology to give the rear view of the C-HR an equally expressive visual signature.

Sophisticated Interior Design with Outstanding Sensory Quality

'Our aim as Toyota's European design centre was to deliver a unique style - modern and sensual at the same time. The uniqueness of the C-HR's interior design is based on a stable structure with 'Emotional Surfaces' and 'Innovative Details'. These key features provided us with the opportunity to approach the design with a fresh perspective. As a result, the C-HR showcases the emotional appeal of Toyota's interiors of the future.' Alexandre Gommier, ED2 Design Centre

A new departure for Toyota, the interior styling represents a new 'Sensual Tech' design concept combining high-tech functionality with a sensual and fashionable style. It embodies a driver focused area within an airy, expansive cabin space.

The warm, welcoming ambiance of an airy, expansive cabin space was created by the seamless layered architecture of the instrument panel that continues through to the door trim with a stylish ornamentation and a piano black panel. It offers a contrast between sensual surfacing and crisp lines to deliver a fresh, yet comfortable environment.

The driver oriented area incorporates innovative details and intuitive, approachable high technology. All operating switchgear, and an 8" display audio touch-screen featuring a redesigned and improved HMI (Human Machine Interface) with Toyota's Multi-Media '16 navigation platform and enhanced connected services are slightly oriented towards the driver.

In conjunction with the asymmetrical centre console design, this brings all controls within easy reach of the driver, whilst still allowing front passenger access to the relevant switchgear.

Because the touch-screen stands proud of the instrument panel rather than being enclosed by it, the upper dashboard is considerably lower in depth, further helping driver visibility.

A unique new two-tiered front seat design combines a slender, sporting upper section with a more strongly bolstered and supportive lower area, these differences emphasised through the use of differing tones, textures and patterns within the upholstery.

'The European Sensory Quality team has already worked on various facelifts of existing models, but this is the first time that we were tasked with an entirely new model, so a lot depends on the success of the C-HR. The designers at ED2 did such a good job, we had to ensure that their concept made it to production with the right finishing. With great support from the engineering teams, we worked on every visual detail and challenged standards to create seamless interior harmony. In the end, we believe this to be the best interior SQ yet seen in a Toyota.' Mehmet Fatih Kale, Senior Engineer, European SQ team

Targeting class-leading sensory quality (SQ), and knowing that C-HR customers will also have competitors from premium brands on their shopping list, the C-HR interior represents the earliest involvement yet of Toyota's European SQ team in the design process.

Working closely with the headquarters design team to maintain the original interior styling concept, the SQ team have focused painstakingly on component quality, and the consistency of grain, texture, shape, colour and illumination in every element, even the stitch groove radii of the seats.

Reinforcing the link between interior and exterior design, many switches use a similar shape, reflecting the diamond motif of the exterior body shell. The same diamond theme is also visible in the door trim pattern, the headliner, the JBL speaker grilles and tweeter shape, and even the needles of the driver's analogue instrument dials.

A carefully considered choice of finishes is essential to the harmonious, consistent, one-piece look of the new interior. There are three main surface finishes - leather-like for all background surfaces, a smooth Nappa grain for all touching surfaces and technical grain for all functional elements such as switchgear.

Decorative elements are finished in high quality piano black and satin silver trim, and the clear blue instrument and switchgear illumination has been carefully fine-tuned to ensure consistency of hue, even on adjacent reflective surfaces of differing colours.

This outstanding new interior design will be available in a choice of three colour schemes: Dark Grey, Black/Blue and Black/Brown.

Equipment Levels to Suit the Most Demanding Customers

Reflecting the demands of its target customer, the Toyota C-HR can be equipped with a wide variety of features.

As part of Toyota's commitment to democratise advanced safety equipment, Toyota Safety Sense is standard across the range. The system includes a Pre-Collision System (including Pedestrian Recognition), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with steering control, Automatic High Beam and Road Sign Assist (Road Sign Assist is not available on the entry grade).

Top-of-the-range customers will be able to specify heated seats, a smart entry system, privacy glass, bespoke upholstery including part-leather seats, Toyota's revolutionary S-IPA system (Simple Intelligent Park Assist), 18" alloy wheels and Bi-tone metallic paintwork.

Concert Hall Sound

Providing the ultimate in sound reproduction in the C crossover segment, the new C-HR may be equipped with a tailor-made JBL premium audio system comprising an 8-channel, 576 Watt stereo amplifier and 9-speakers, including two newly patented acoustic JBL wave guides, known as horn tweeters.

Because various elements of the interior such as the windows, sunroof and upholstery, as well as the rigidity of the body structure surrounding each speaker, can have a significant impact on system sound quality, the system is the result of particularly close collaboration between JBL and Toyota's engineers from early in the design process.

An in-depth customer analysis was taken into account for the system design and resulted in the front cabin orientation of the speaker layout and the use of a precisely integrated, A pillar-mounted horn tweeter -a JBL system signature- to deliver crisp, clear sound.

As well the two 25 mm horn tweeters and acoustic wave guides, the system further features two 80 mm wide-dispersion units and two 17 cm sub-woofers in the front of the C-HR, and, in the rear, two 15 cm full-range speakers and a 19 cm sub-woofer in a dedicated, 10-litre, ported enclosure.

Available in combination with the navigation option, the JBL premium audio system also incorporates lossless audio encoding.

The partnership between Toyota and JBL started in 1996 and has been successfully expanded since that time. Trusted by music professionals, JBL audio systems are used in major concert halls, venues and stadiums throughout the world (80% of live concerts, 70% of all recording studios and 90% of all THX-certified movie theatres).

Quality is the common focus of both companies, which has resulted in the all-new, uncompromised premium audio system specifically tailored for the C-HR.

State of the Art Powertrains

The Toyota C-HR is equipped with an engine-range that is designed to deliver exactly the fluent, engaging driving behaviour that its customers are looking for. This is most powerfully expressed by the segment-unique, range-topping, full hybrid version, the intrinsic characteristics of which guarantee a smooth, jolt-free ride.

Fitted with the latest-generation hybrid power plant, the C-HR generates CO2 emissions as low as 85 g/km - a figure unrivalled within its segment - and returns combined fuel consumption of only 3.7 l/100 km.

Delivering 90 kW/122 DIN hp, this new hybrid powertrain is not only more efficient and lighter than the previous system, but also offers sharper performance. Detailed design changes to the engine have resulted in a thermal efficiency of 40% - a world-beating performance for a petrol unit.

Other hybrid system components have been made lighter and smaller, and have been repositioned for optimum packaging, further contributing to the car's low centre of gravity.

The C-HR is also available with a new 1.2 litre turbo engine, which debuted in the Auris. Delivering 85 kW/116 DIN hp and 185 Nm of torque, this unit generates CO2 emission from 128 g/km and returns combined fuel consumption of from 5.7 l/100 km. It may be mated to either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a Continuously Variable Transmission. CVT equipped versions are available with either front- or all-wheel drive.

And finally, a 2-litre 150 DIN hp/110 kW, 193 Nm CVT-only model will be available for certain markets (Ukraine and Caucasus).

2016 Toyota Fortuner Interior and Exterior


2016 Toyota Fortuner Interior and Exterior

Toyota staged the simultaneous global reveal of a new seven-seat family SUV that will arrive in its Australian dealer showrooms towards the end of October 2015.

Known as Fortuner, the new SUV will expand Toyota's market-leading SUV line-up to six vehicles - joining RAV4, Kluger, FJ Cruiser, LandCruiser Prado and LandCruiser 200 Series.

Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said the world premiere, staged simultaneously in Australia and Thailand, heralds a stylish and refined vehicle that is remarkably tough and offers genuine 4WD ability.

"Fortuner's strength and refinement ensures it is equally at home on the school run as on the toughest off-road trails found in Australia," Mr Cramb said.

"Fortuner shares the rugged underpinnings of the 'unbreakable' HiLux, allowing owners to travel to - and return from - places many other SUVs simply can't go.

"At the same time, Fortuner's unique design suits the advanced tastes of modern SUV buyers while being equipped with a comprehensive list of features appreciated by families and business owners.

"Fortuner provides a diesel alternative to the petrol-only Kluger range as the new entry point for customers looking to purchase a large Toyota diesel SUV."

Toyota sells more SUVs in Australia than any other brand, having delivered more than 50,000 in each of the past three years. No other company has sold 40,000 SUVs in a single year.

Fortuner will be offered in Australia in three grades - GX, GXL and Crusade - all powered by Toyota's new 2.8-litre direct-injection four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that develops up to 450Nm of torque.

Watch the video below :  2016 Toyota Fortuner Interior and Exterior



A new six-speed manual gearbox includes 'intelligent' technology on GXL and Crusade grades to ensure smoother shifting by matching engine speed to transmission speed. A newly developed six-speed automatic transmission is also available.

All variants are fitted with trailer sway control, which is designed to assist if a towed vehicle becomes unsettled by crosswinds, bumpy roads or sharp turns of the steering wheel. Maximum braked towing capacity will be three tonnes for the manual and 2.8 tonnes for the auto.

A part-time 4x4 during day-to-day driving, owners can turn a dial to access Fortuner's impressive four-wheel-drive ability in high or low range.

The suspension package was developed and tuned by local engineers to meet Australia's harsh conditions, with double wishbones at the front and a five-link, coil-spring configuration at the rear for impressive handling stability and ride comfort on all surfaces. Front and rear stabiliser bars suppress body roll.

The vehicle's off-road prowess is enhanced by a rear differential lock with the componentry placed within the differential housing for greater off-road protection.

Significant local development was also applied to ensure optimum tuning of the stability and active traction control electronics for local conditions, particularly for use on gravel. Drivers can disable the electronics for specific off-road situations, such as driving in slippery mud or sand.

A reversing camera is standard across the range, as are seven airbags, hill-start assist control and an emergency stop signal. Toyota expects Fortuner to attract the top five-star safety rating.

All variants will feature front and rear air-conditioning, large touchscreen audio displays, Toyota Link connected mobility, side steps, 17 or 18-inch wheels, disc brakes front and rear, and an air-conditioned compartment that helps keep drinks and food warm or cold.

The two higher grades are fitted with roof rails, fog lamps, reverse parking sensors, keyless smart entry and start, and downhill assist control.

At the top-of-the-range, features include bi-LED headlamps and LED daytime running lamps, a power back door and 18-inch alloys with highway tyres.

Fortuner will come to Australia with a comprehensive and integrated range of Toyota Genuine accessories developed and rigorously tested locally.

"These accessories - including alloy and steel bull bars compatible with the vehicle's safety systems - build on the strong global platform and specifically meet the needs of Australian buyers," Mr Cramb said.

FORTUNER ENGINE: HIGH TORQUE AND EFFICIENCY


Toyota's latest SUV, the new Fortuner, will be powered by a newly developed 2.8-litre direct-injection turbo-diesel engine that raises the bar for fuel efficiency, performance and quietness.

Designated 1GD, the 2755cm3 four-cylinder common-rail turbo-diesel engine employs a highly efficient fuel-injection system and intake/exhaust ports.

The engine is notable for its high torque at low revolutions and its maximum torque of 450Nm is available from 1600 to 2400rpm when driven through Toyota's new six-speed automatic transmission.

Fortuner will also be offered with a six-speed manual gearbox, available on higher grades with 'intelligent' technology that ensures smoother shifting by matching engine revs to transmission speed. The manual's peak torque is 420Nm.

Maximum power of 130kW is reached at 3400rpm while the power curve below 3000rpm supports low-to-mid-range performance.

Toyota's engineers developed the engine from the ground up to be lightweight with high combustion efficiency and low friction, resulting in excellent fuel efficiency.

These measures, along with the inclusion of a diesel particulate filter, have resulted in reduced emissions and compliance with Euro 5 emissions standards.

Fuel consumption on the official combined cycle is expected to be below 8 litres/100km for manual variants of the part-time 4x4 SUV.

The engine's port shape has been designed to maximise air flow into the cylinders. A newly developed combustion chamber shape and advanced control of fuel injection pressure are used to optimise the injection of fuel into the combustion chamber to achieve high thermal efficiency and reduced emissions.

Precise pilot injection matching the state of the ambient air occurs before the main injection to shorten ignition delay, achieving stable combustion even in harsh environments, while ensuring quiet operation and high thermal efficiency.

The engine features a compact high-efficiency variable geometry turbocharger produced in-house by Toyota. It has a newly developed turbine that improves efficiency and a newly developed impeller that provides instantaneous acceleration response and produces maximum torque over a wide range of engine speeds.

The use of silica-reinforced porous anodised aluminium (SiRPA) on the pistons ensures optimum heat management during combustion. SiRPA is a highly effective insulation and dissipation material that is easy to heat and cool.

Toyota will continue to position diesel engines as a key component of the Toyota engine line-up, based on the philosophy of providing the right vehicles for the right places at the right time.

The entire Toyota group is focused on developing cleaner and more competitive diesel engines across a wide range of vehicle types, taking into account the varying needs of people around the world.

STRONG, REFINED AND FUNCTIONAL: NEW FORTUNER DESIGN

Toyota's new Fortuner SUV debuts a compelling design that expresses refinement and innovation as well as being functional and tough.

Fortuner projects a fluid and dynamic character that clearly distinguishes it from the five other SUVs in the Toyota range.

Toyota Australia's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said seven-seat Fortuner's credentials extend well beyond its stylish, urban appeal.

"Fortuner's advanced design gives little hint as to its true capabilities - especially its underlying toughness and prodigious off-road ability for people seeking adventure," Mr Cramb said.

"While it shares many under-the-skin components with the next-generation HiLux, its styling is unique and targeted at modern SUV buyers," he said.

Fortuner's large upper grille is slanted and framed by thick chrome plating that extends around the sleek and aggressive projector headlamps - Bi-LED on high-grade Crusade variants.

The strong design features a prominent three-dimensional trapezoidal front bumper that produces a sense of depth while deeply recessed foglamps on selected grades emphasise the vehicle's width.

Along the side, a bold character line runs across the doors between the flared front and rear fenders which feature sculpted surfaces to express refinement in the midst of toughness.

A chrome-plated moulding runs along the belt-line to the rear window where it kicks up. The C-pillar has been blacked out to produce a "floating roof" effect for a dynamically striking look even when the vehicle is stationary.

Other features include side steps, roof rails (on selected grades), a shark-fin antenna and 17 or 18-inch wheels, including the Crusade's 18-inch alloy rims with thick powerful spokes and contrasting narrow, precision spokes.

From the back, Fortuner's rounded upper body is highlighted by a chrome-plated moulding that wraps around from the sides to the back glass - a distinct contrast to the rear bumper, which has protruding corners.

The sleek rear combination lamps and license plate garnish blend with the complex surfaces of the rear body. All grades feature LED stop lamps for a high-tech image.

FORTUNER TO BOOST TOYOTA'S MARKET-LEADING SUV SALES

New Fortuner with its strong turbo-diesel performance is set to build on Toyota's long-term leadership as the auto industry's top-selling SUV brand.

Toyota has sold more SUVs than any other brand each year since the term Sports Utility Vehicles (SUV) was first used officially by VFacts in 2003 - and for many years previously when these vehicles were known as all-terrain wagons.

Toyota's executive director sales and marketing Tony Cramb said Fortuner arrives into a market where the popularity of diesel SUVs among private buyers has recently surged ahead of business demand.

"Fortuner offers the space, ride comfort, modern features, performance and off-road ability to meet this growing demand among private buyers looking for adventure," Mr Cramb said.

"These and other Fortuner attributes such as great fuel efficiency and top-level safety are also highly valued by business users."

Until 2013, non-private sales - including to business, government and rental companies - accounted for the majority of diesel SUVs, with the annual gap over private sales often around 25 per cent and as high as 40 per cent.

Sales to private customers edged ahead in 2013 and accelerated last year, growing strongly to more than 69,000 diesel SUVs - 11,000 more than the combined sales to business and other users.

Total sales last year of 127,588 diesel SUVs were almost four times higher than the level reached a decade ago in 2005. This represents faster growth than the overall SUV market which has doubled during that period from 180,292 to a record last year of 352,462 vehicles.

Toyota delivered 56,663 SUVs in Australia last year, outselling its nearest competitor by more than 22,000 vehicles and achieving its second-best year on record. No other brand has ever sold 40,000 SUVs in a single year.

Toyota's 2014 result was buoyed by record demand for RAV4 (up 6.9 per cent to 18,160 sales) and a gain of 10.6 per cent for Prado (16,112).

Kluger, with the changeover to a new model, contributed 11,484 sales while LandCruiser wagon lifted its segment share to 83 per cent from 79.8 per cent.

Toyota's push in this segment up to the 1990s was led by the LandCruiser wagon, which has now amassed a cumulative total of more than 240,000 sales in Australia - counted separately from the 430,000 workhorse LandCruisers bought locally.

The arrival of the RAV4 (240,000 total sales) in 1994 is credited with kick-starting the popularity of SUVs as recreational vehicles that combine off-road ability with passenger-car comfort.

Toyota's LandCruiser Prado arrived in 1996 and has topped 235,000 sales while Kluger has reached a total of 124,000 since 2007. The iconic FJ Cruiser has achieved a remarkable 10,000 sales since 2011.

Fortuner background

The origins of the newest Toyota SUV go back to 1998, although it wasn't called Fortuner at first.

Thirty years after the HiLux was born, the concept was to develop a passenger vehicle based on a pick-up, principally for markets in Asia.

This was largely motivated by emerging demand for an affordable family vehicle that had impressive off-road capability.

Toyota named the vehicle Sport Rider to accentuate its suitability for people with active lifestyles.

In 2005, Toyota built on the quality, durability, reliability and off-road prowess of this vehicle to introduce the Fortuner nameplate.

Global sales have been remarkable, growing from 50,000 in the first year to around 200,000 a year now.

The market for Fortuner has since expanded from Asia to the Middle East and several other regions, including Australia.

2016 Toyota Hilux Interior and Exterior



First released in 1968, and one year later throughout Europe, the legendary Toyota Hilux has been a dominant presence in the global pick-up market for nearly 50 years.

To date, the world's favourite pick-up has recorded cumulative global sales of over 16 million units. In Europe, some 36,000 Hilux vehicles were sold in 2014, representing a 23.5% share of the segment. And making Hilux Europe's best-selling pick-up.

Renowned for its Quality, Durability and Reliability (QDR), the unstoppable Hilux continues to amaze as it conquers the North Pole, Icelandic volcanos, the Antarctic continent, and achieves podium finishes in the Dakar Rally Raid.

The new, 8th generation Hilux builds on this legendary reputation and invincible QDR, redefining toughness for business users with a new and stronger ladder chassis, a reinforced deck structure, enhanced 4x4 capabilities, and an improved towing capacity.

At the same time, the new Hilux responds to a growth in pick-up leisure usage in recent years with a new, contemporary design, greater comfort, advanced equipment and improved safety, making it more stylish and stress-free to drive than ever.

Fulfilling user requirements for both a durable business workhorse and a stylish, comfortable leisure 4x4, the new Hilux has been designed to offer all its customers significant improvements in 6 key areas:

- Design - Workhorse toughness and rugged durability combined with new-found levels of refinement and the looks even business users can be proud of.
- Comfort - A more spacious and comfortable interior combining SUV practicality and functionality with passenger car-like cabin NVH levels.
- Safety - A high strength, impact-absorbing body structure and comprehensive brake control systems including ABS, EBD, VSC and Trailer Sway Control (TSC).
- QDR - A new, tougher ladder chassis, a reinforced deck structure and Active Traction Control (A-TRC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) systems raise 4x4 capabilities to match Land Cruiser levels.
- Commercial Vehicle Capabilities - A larger, stronger and more practical cargo deck and an improved, 3.2 ton towing capacity.
- Total Cost of Ownership - New 2.4 and 2.8 D-4D engines with class-leading fuel economy.

Watch this Video : 2016 Toyota Hilux Interior and Exterior




Tougher, stronger and more capable off-road than ever before, the all-new Toyota remains every inch a Hilux. Yet it also heralds a new era for the pick-up, with the style, comfort, safety and advanced technology to satisfy even the most discerning leisure users.

Fulfilling the diverse requirements of the broadest customer base yet, the all-new Toyota Hilux targets European sales of over 40,000 units per annum.

STYLING

At 5,350 mm long, 1,855 mm wide and 1,855 mm high, the new Hilux is 90 mm longer, 20 mm wider and 5 mm lower than its predecessor.

The workhorse toughness and rugged durability inherent in every Hilux generation is now combined with the new-found levels of sophistication demanded by a growing leisure market to create the unique, next generation pick-up appeal of the all-new Hilux model range.

Nowhere is this unique combination of toughness and refinement more clearly expressed than in the new front. This combines the sleek, 'Keen Look' styling of a unified upper grille and headlamp design with the ruggedness of a deep, powerful bumper housing the large, 'Under Priority' lower grille.

Beneath the trademark 'clamshell' hood which wraps over the front wheel arches to reinforce the new Toyota's solid, one-piece road presence, the second horizontal bar of the upper grille runs the full width of the new Hilux, extending into the new headlamp clusters to form a unique Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) signature featuring 12 white LEDs.

With the 'Hilux' signature integrated within the side of the casing, the new headlamp clusters wrap around the vehicle side fenders to further emphasise the width of the new pick-up. The advanced technology of the 'Keen Look' headlamp design also incorporates powerful LED low-beam projectors, available on High grade models.

Below, the bumper design emphasises the tough, durable functionality expected of any Hilux. The trapezoidal shape of the lower grille highlights Toyota's 'Under Priority' design language, whilst the placement of the foglamp housings at the bumper extremities reinforces the new pick-up's solid, stable front stance.

Flowing smoothly into a new, stronger and wider undercover, the lower corners and bottom of the bumper have been shaped to optimise ground clearance under even the most extreme off-road driving conditions.

To the sides, the new Hilux abandons a visually separate 'over fender' design in favour of the seamless transition of the front bumper into the muscular front wheel arches for a more refined appearance.

Both dynamism and toughness are incorporated in the profile of the new Toyota pick-up by the use of a thick lower door cross-section which links front and rear wheel arches -the latter also now seamlessly integrated within the body- before curving upwards to anchor the wrap-around rear lamp clusters.

Greater style is added to the design through the adoption of a blacked-out B pillar within the smooth, rear-slanted silhouette of the cabin, a choice of new 17" and 18" alloy wheels, and the linking of the cab and rear deck with a chrome beltline, which further unifies the overall design.

The cab roof has been carefully shaped to improve both its styling and practicality. It now features an aerodynamic, 'pagoda'-style 'V' shape which helps channel air over the roof and off the sides of the vehicle, rather than into the deck where it can create drag against the tailgate. Even the minor detail of the antenna has been considered; it has been repositioned further forward to keep it clear of bulky loads or when using deck attachments.

Flanked by a new lamp cluster design which incorporates aero stabilising fins to improve aerodynamic efficiency, the rear of the 2015 Hilux features a new steel bumper which is set lower to the ground, allowing for a deeper step area to improve deck accessibility when the tailgate is closed. The rear view camera is now integrated into the handle assembly for cleaner looks and better visibility.

The all-new Hilux is available in a choice of five popular base colours, and three new eye-catching colours: Orange Spice, Volcano Red and Hydro Blue.

Interior Design - Durable and Sophisticated, with Innovative Technology

Accessed via a Smart Entry and Start system with a stylish electric key, the all-new Hilux interior combines the durability and functionality required of any working vehicle with SUV levels of refinement, sophistication and equipment.

The horizontal emphasis of the clean, uncluttered dashboard design combines premium quality elegance with the strength of a work space. The dashboard incorporates new, cross fin-type air vents with rotary dial adjustment.

The centre console is dominated by the robust tablet-like integration of a 7" touch-screen multimedia system. Operated simply and intuitively by premium quality capacitive switchgear and fingertip flick control, the unit has been moved closer to the front seats for ease of use.

A new driver's instrument binnacle locates large, clear, analogue speedometer and tachometer dials either side of a full colour 4.2" TFT multi-information display. Its content changed quickly and easily via a steering wheel-mounted switch, the display places the most pertinent driving information at the highest position on the screen to minimise the shift in line-of-sight whilst driving.

Featuring a bold, horizontal spoke design to harmonise with the dashboard styling, a new steering wheel incorporates reach and rake adjustability, thumb rests and a thicker, stitched rim to guarantee a comfortable grip for all drivers.

Integral switchgear -including a four-way rocker switch- allows for quick, easy control of the 6-speaker audio and multi-information display systems, as well as linked operation of the 7" centre console and multi-information displays.

With dial-operated temperature and airflow control and a clear LCD display, a new air-conditioning system offers occupants notably improved heating and cooling functionality. The use of an optimised compressor allows the system to generate cooler air when the engine is running at idle.

In keeping with the more leisure-oriented interior design of the new Hilux, the gear lever has been shortened to give a slicker, more passenger car-like shift action. And drive mode selection, including all-wheel drive, is now simply made via adjacent, easy-to-use switches.

The premium quality appearance and tactility of the new Hilux interior is reinforced by visually-unifying metallic coated ornamentation to the dashboard, door trim, driver's instrument binnacle, steering wheel and gear lever bezel. Further visual harmony is created by the adoption of consistent blue illumination and instrument back-lighting throughout.

The black seat upholstery of the new Double Cab Hilux interior is available in a choice of three finishes. Entry grade models feature a tough, hard-wearing fabric for business users, a high quality, soft-textured yet durable fabric enhances the Mid grade interior for dual usage owners, and High grade, leisure usage models are upholstered in full leather.

Double Cab - More Space, Greater Comfort and Comprehensive Storage

The all-new Hilux benefits from increased interior space and greater seat comfort, as well as the wealth of practical storage compartments essential to a vehicle equally at home in both business and leisure environments.

The driver's seat hip point has been raised by 10 mm, and the height adjustment range increased by 15 mm. A front tilt function has also been added to the power adjustment controls and this, in conjunction with the addition of reach adjustment to the steering wheel, offers an ideal driving position to a wider range of occupants.

Offering occupants head- and shoulder room increases of 8 and 19 mm respectively, the front seats feature a new frame structure with a long, amply padded seat cushion optimised to provide excellent comfort support over long distances. Seat back side bolster size has also been increased to improve lateral holding performance.

The rear seats also benefit from the optimisation of the frame structure and seat cushioning, resulting in an increase in both body and leg support. This increased comfort is further enhanced by a reduction in thickness of the front seat back, creating more foot space and 10 mm greater knee room for rear seat occupants.

A 60:40 split tip-up rear seat is available to enhance Double Cab flexibility. Its lightweight structure means less effort is required to fold the seats, whilst its centre armrest is wide enough to be used by both occupants simultaneously.

The new Hilux boasts class-leading levels of practical storage. The split-level glove box features a lockable lower compartment, whilst the upper compartment is connected to the HVAC system and may be used as a cool box for the storage of two 500 ml bottles.

Beneath its padded arm rest lid, the centre console box offers storage for up to 22 CDs and an optional, AC 220V power outlet. Fold-down overhead storage is convenient for items such as sunglasses, and driver and passenger dashboard-mounted cup holders are positioned in front of the side air vents for drinks cooling.

The transmission tunnel incorporates a further large cup holder and a storage tray, adjacent to which are two DC 12V accessory sockets and both AUX and USB ports for the connection of smartphones and portable media devices.

Both front and rear door pockets will stow 1 litre plastic bottles, and the Double Cab's rear accommodation further benefits from twin rear armrest cup holders, pockets and convenience hooks to the front seat-backs, ceiling hooks above the seats, and under-seat storage compartments.

Cabin NVH - Lowered to Passenger Car Levels

Allowing occupants to fully benefit from the new, more comfortable and sophisticated Hilux interior, the intrusion of engine, road and wind noise into the cabin has been reduced to class-leading levels.

Comprehensive sound absorption and insulation measures have been adopted throughout the new Hilux. Expansion foam is injected throughout the bodyshell structure and foam used to all seal points to prevent the transmission of noise.

A fender separator and upper and lower protectors seal the junctions of the cowl louver and front pillar with the front wing, helping to soundproof the engine bay and limit the transmission of sound from both the engine and air intake. Spot welding between the cover on top of the cowl panel and the flange creates a cowl Noise and Vibration seal and further soundproofs the engine bay.

Petrol Hilux variants now benefit from the adoption of a dash outer silencer, greatly reducing engine idling noise, whilst the existing dash outer silencer of diesel models has been made 1.5 times larger, reducing idling noise by some 3%.

In conjunction with the engine bay soundproofing, both the petrol and diesel engines in the Hilux range have themselves undergone Noise- and Vibration-suppressing measures.

Diesel engine combustion noise has been reduced by optimising the shapes of the intake and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) ports, and the intake manifold, suppressing intake variations in each cylinder.

The front drive has been changed from a gear to a chain mechanism, reducing mechanical noises caused by speed fluctuations whilst idling. The form of the intake manifold has been optimised to reduce engine noise. The exhaust manifold optimises the retention capacity of the catalytic converter, lowering the noise characteristics of turbo engines. And, enhancing the vibration management of the turbocharger itself, turbocharger support rigidity has been improved.

In addition, the Hilux diesel engines benefit from the adoption of an oil pan insulation cover and a resin engine cover, both of which contribute to further reductions in engine noise.

Noise suppression measures in the Hilux petrol engine range include the addition of insulators to both intake and exhaust manifolds, and the optimisation of the oil pan silencer shape, position and materials.

Finally, to address wind and road noise, lips have been added to the side glass lining to decrease noise penetration, seals have been added between the front and rear doors, the range of weather strip application has been extended to the rocker area to increase noise barrier performance, and the size of the door drainage plug holes has been enlarged to further reduce noise penetration.

Cargo Deck - Larger, Stronger and More Practical

The cargo deck of the new Hilux has been made larger, stronger and more practical.

Maximum cargo deck width has increased from 1,544 to a class-leading 1,645 mm. The tailgate now benefits from stronger, link-type hinges, and heavy-duty steel plate brackets have been adopted for the struts supporting it in the open position.

The deck itself has been made stronger to reduce deformation and damage when loading or unloading cargo. The floor ribs have been redesigned and sill cross-members added to the floor panel. The header panel has been reinforced, and the shape of both the wheel house rib reinforcement and the service hole cover on the tailgate optimised.

A range of cargo deck optional equipment features a number of covers, including both a hard top and a lockable, aluminium roller cover.

NEW ENGINE LINE-UP FOR BEST-IN-CLASS TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

The all-new Toyota Hilux is available with a choice of four engines: all-new 2.4 D-4D and 2.8 D-4D Global Diesel (GD) engines; the existing 2.5 D-4D diesel unit; and an uprated, Dual VVT-i version of the 2.7 litre petrol engine.

With fuel efficiency improved by some 9% over the larger capacity engines they replace, they return class-leading fuel economy figures as low as 7.3 l/100 km for the all-wheel drive 2.4 D-4D.

In combination with reduced service times, the superior fuel efficiency and reduced running costs of the new GD engines offer customers Best-in-Class Total Cost of Ownership.

Two-wheel drive versions of the 2.4 D-4D are mated to 6-speed manual transmissions, whilst all-wheel drive 2.4 D-4D models offer a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic gearboxes. The 2.5 D-4D with all-wheel drive is available with a 6-speed manual transmission.

The new 2.8 D-4D is equipped with all-wheel drive and a new 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission. And the uprated 2.7 Dual VVT-i petrol unit marries all-wheel drive with a choice of 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions.

The 6-speed manual and 6 Super ECT automatic transmissions have been extensively revised to improve durability, enhance low-speed driving performance and offer drivers quieter, smoother gear changes whilst realising the full potential of the engines to which they are mated.

The Hilux drivetrain has also been upgraded to support high engine torque output. And all engines in the 2015 Hilux range are now equipped with a Drive Mode switch, allowing drivers to choose between ECO and POWER settings.

All-new 2.4 D-4D and 2.8 D-4D Global Diesel Engine

Although approximately 100 and 200 cc lower in capacity respectively than their predecessors, Toyota's newly developed 2.4 D-4D and 2.8 D-4D GD engines combine vastly improved torque delivery in the low and medium speed ranges with class-leading fuel economy.

Both new, 16 valve, DOHC four-cylinder engines are equipped with a variable nozzle turbocharger with intercooler. The 2,393 cc 2.4 D-4D unit generates 110 kW at 3,400 rpm, and maximum torque of 400 Nm between 1,600 and 2,000 rpm. And the 2,755 cc 2.8 D-4D unit develops 130 kW at 3,400 rpm, and maximum torque of 450 Nm between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm.

All versions with equipped with the new 2.4 D-4D or 2.8 D-4D engine achieve a top speed of 170 km/h.

The fuel efficiency of both engines has improved by 9% over the units they replace. The 2.4 D-4D returns an average fuel consumption of 7.3 l/100 km when mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, and 8.3 l/100 km with a 6-speed automatic. Mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, the 2.8 D-4D returns 8.5 l/100 km.

The new engines incorporate a comprehensive range of measures designed to save weight, enhance combustion efficiency and reduce friction.

A resin head cover has been adopted, and the thickness of the entire cylinder head has been reduced. The resultant weight reduction contributes significantly to lowering energy consumption and, hence, improving fuel efficiency.

The efficiency of the intake and exhaust ports, and the fuel injection system, has been optimised to maximise torque. Two intake ports are used in unison, according to the engine speed: a tangential port that produces a high swirl flow, agitating the air/fuel mixture to enhance combustion efficiency, and a helical port that achieves a high flow volume.

Both engines feature an electronically controlled, common-rail type fuel injection system that achieves higher pressure and more advanced injection pressure control, and a new piston shape has been adopted to match the new shape of the combustion chamber.

Precise pilot injection matching the state of the ambient air occurs before the main injection to shorten ignition delay, combining stable combustion in even the world's harshest environments with quiet operation and high thermal efficiency.

The new turbocharger is 30% smaller than its predecessor and features a newly-developed turbine for improved efficiency, and a newly-developed impeller that provides instantaneous acceleration response and produces maximum torque over a wide rev range.

Both engines are equipped with a water-cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system with an EGR cooler bypass function, and the 2.8 D-4D unit also benefits from a swirl control valve in the intake manifold.

The adjacent positioning of the catalyst combines cleaner performance with a reduction in size of some 30% and a reduction in the number of exhaust system components from 18 to just three. The elimination of up to 99% of NOx (nitrogen oxide) emissions through use of Toyota's urea Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system ensures the 2.4 D-4D and 2.8 D-4D Hilux complies with Euro 6 regulations.

Mechanical friction within the engines has been minimised through the adoption of a high-efficiency vacuum pump, a roller rocker-type valve train and a low friction timing chain, further improving combustion efficiency.

Existing 2.5 D-4D Diesel Engine

The 2,494 cc, 16 valve, DOHC four-cylinder common-rail unit develops 75 kW at 3,600 rpm, and maximum torque of 260 Nm from 1,600 to 2,400 rpm.

Durable, reliable and quiet, the 2.5 D-4D engine features variable nozzle turbocharging with a high-performance intercooler, a sophisticated Swirl Control System for optimising the air-fuel mixture at low engine speeds and an Exhaust Gas recirculation (EGR) cooler to improve emissions performance.

Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive, it gives the new Hilux a maximum speed of 170 km/h, and average fuel consumption of 8.0 l/100 km.

Uprated 2.7 Dual VVT-i Petrol Engine

The proven, 2,694 cc litre petrol engine generates 122 kW at 5,200 rpm, maximum torque of 245 Nm at 4,000 rpm and and a maximum speed of 170 km/h.

The unit benefits from a range of enhancements designed to save weight, enhance combustion efficiency and reduce friction, resulting in a high power output combined with increased fuel economy.

The weight of the roller rocker arm, retainer and valve spring has been reduced. Combustion efficiency has been improved through the use of a newly shaped intake tumble port, a reshaped combustion chamber designed for high compression, and the adoption of variable valve timing on the exhaust side.

This now equips the 2.7 litre unit with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), with the valve timing of the both intake and exhaust sides optimised to improve power delivery.

Measures to reduce mechanical friction losses include the optimisation of the cylinder inner wall surface treatment, the application of a Teflon coating to the connecting rod bearings, and the adoption of a low-friction timing chain and oil pump.

As a result of these technical enhancements, the 2.7 litre unit's fuel efficiency has improved by 10%, its average fuel consumption falling to 10.4 l/100 km when mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and 10.7 l/100 km when matched to a 5-speed manual gearbox.

Improved 6-speed Manual Transmission

The gear ratios of the 6-speed manual transmission have been optimised to offer 10% lower 1st gear and 23% higher 6th gear ratios than the 5-speed gearbox, improving both low speed torque delivery and high speed fuel economy.

The supporting components of the shift system use multiple bearings and bushings to produce a smooth change and satisfying user feedback. The gear combination has been tuned using a micrometer to achieve the smoothest possible transmission of torque. And a clutch start switch has been added to prevent sudden acceleration if the transmission is engaged at engine start-up.

Noise and vibration generated during gear engagement has been reduced. And the length and thickness of the transmission case ribs have been optimised to minimise noise and vibration generated in, or transmitted through, the casing.

Ensuring the durability and reliability required of any off-road vehicle, the gear shape and number of teeth have been optimised for strength, and the load tolerance of each gear increased. The bearing support structures on the front of the countershaft have been changed. The current roller bearing has been replaced by a combined roller and ball bearing to effectively balance axial and radial direction load.

Enhanced 6-speed Super intelligent Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission

The Hilux 6-speed automatic Super intelligent Electronically Controlled Transmission (6 Super ECT) benefits from several new control systems designed to improve both fuel economy and driving performance.

Making its first appearance in a Toyota vehicle, High-speed Gear Effective Utilisation Control determines the availability of high-speed gears in real time according to driving conditions. For instance, taking into account vehicle loading and throttle setting, the system will determine whether 6th gear is available or the vehicle should remain in 5th to achieve the optimum balance of driving power and fuel efficiency.

Deceleration Downshift Control optimises downshifts when decelerating to improve fuel efficiency. The fuel supply is automatically cut off during periods of engine braking, unless engine speed drops to the low rpm threshold, when fuel injection is resumed to prevent engine stalling. Accordingly, the transmission maximises engine braking by selecting a lower gear to prevent engine speed dropping below the low rpm threshold, thus extending fuel cut-off periods to drastically enhance fuel economy.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)-SHIFT Control incorporates Accelerator Immediate Close and Immediate Open Control. The former makes it easier to maintain the current gear when the accelerator pedal is suddenly released, enhancing both engine braking force and responsiveness when accelerating again. The latter performs downshifts immediately on sudden depression of the accelerator pedal, enhancing throttle response.

Upgraded, High Torque Drivetrain

The Hilux drivetrain has been upgraded to support high engine torque output. The diameter of the output shaft within the transfer case has been increased, and new differentials adopted to cope with higher torque loads. The propeller shaft has been optimised for increased torque and a higher vehicle top speed, and a torsional damper added to minimise Noise and Vibration (NV).

New Drive Mode Switch

All engines in the 2015 Hilux range are now equipped with a Drive Mode switch, allowing drivers to choose between ECO and POWER settings. ECO mode reduces power consumption in relation to acceleration, heating and cooling to improve fuel economy, whilst POWER mode offers driver's a sharper response to throttle inputs for a more engaging driving experience.

DRIVING DYNAMICS AND OFF-ROAD ABILITY

The all-new Hilux features a newly developed ladder-frame chassis offering a 20% increase in torsional rigidity. It is designed to combine improved handling, ride comfort, NV performance and collision safety with outstanding durability in even the most extreme driving environments.

The thickness of the frame side rails and cross-members has been increased by some 30 mm, and the cross-member cross-section optimised. In conjunction with the strengthening of the frame bracket structure, this improves both cross-member deformation resistance and the fatigue strength of the suspension and front propeller shaft mountings. These measures enhance vehicle handling on rough roads and the ground-covering ability of the new Hilux.

A change in shape and an increase in thickness of the suspension installation components enhances the fatigue strength of the suspension mountings and towing hitch, awarding the new Hilux an increase in axle capacity, and raising its towing capacity to 3.2 tons.

The optimisation of the side rail cross-sections and the enhanced connection rigidity between them and the cross-members improves frame rigidity against twisting or bending. This improves vehicle yaw response and ride comfort, as well as reducing floor vibrations and engine sounds transmitted to the cabin.

Ladder-frame chassis deformation in the event of a crash is also reduced to deliver best-in-class occupant protection.

Boasting three times the deformation strength of its predecessor, a stronger, wider under cover improves protection to essential parts beneath the new all-wheel drive Hilux.

The cover area has been enlarged, reinforcement added and panel thickness increased, reducing the risk of damage to the power steering boot and camber bolt. The engine may now be fully serviced without the need to remove the under cover, lowering service costs and, hence, the Total Cost of Ownership.

With the rigidity of its connection points to the chassis increased, the new bodyshell features a high content of 590 MPa high-tensile steel, combining light weight with optimum body strength.

It further benefits from a total of 388 spot welding points -120 more than on the current Hilux. The resultant increase in body rigidity limits deformation, improving steering accuracy and responsiveness for a more engaging driving experience.

Finally, the new Hilux features superior anti-corrosion performance to ensure a long-lasting chassis and bodyshell even when operating in the very harshest of working environments. The width of the side rails and cross-members in the chassis frame has been increased by some 30 mm to achieve a 20-years corrosion resistance.

Galvanised (GA) steel with anti-corrosive properties is used on all parts of the vehicle exterior underbody, and widely used throughout the upper body cabin and deck. The area of vehicle undercoating has been substantially increased, reducing water and dirt penetration between panel gaps, and anti-corrosive wax and chip-resistant coating optimally applied to the upper body in areas more prone to corrosion.

Pitch & Bounce Control

The all-new Hilux is equipped with Toyota's Pitch & Bounce Control system. By automatically adjusting engine torque in direct response to road surface conditions, the system is able to reduce the pitching motion of the body, improving ride comfort and handling.

Pitch & Bounce Control uses wheel speed sensor information to establish when the nose of the vehicle is either lifted or lowered by road surface undulations. When the nose is lifted, this causes the heads of vehicle occupants to tilt backwards. The system momentarily reduces engine torque to compensate, reducing occupant head movement. When the vehicle nose dips, occupants' heads are tilted forwards, and the system adds torque to compensate in a similar manner.

Though system adjustment of engine torque is measured in extremely small quantities, it has a noticeable effect on ride and handling. Ride comfort is improved through the perception of a flatter ride due to reduced body movement. And steering feel around the centre line is improved through better ground holding of the tyres.

Revised Suspension, Improved Power Steering and New All-terrain Tyres

The all-new Hilux's tough, durable leaf spring and twin shock absorber rear suspension system has been extensively revised to combine the off-road articulation capabilities expected of a rugged all-wheel drive workhorse with SUV-like ride comfort and handling stability.

The length of the leaf spring has been increased by 100 mm to 1,400 mm, suppressing road surface vibration, and the attachment point of the rear suspension moved to the front of the spring. Moving the attachment point 100 mm forwards and lowering it by 25 mm contributes to enhanced steering stability.

The leaf springs have also been mounted 50 mm further apart on the ladder-frame chassis. In conjunction with an increase in the thickness of the front stabiliser bar, this contributes to increased stability when cornering and when the vehicle is loaded.

Shock absorber mounting has been adjusted, with the rear shock absorber moved forward to equalise damping force between the two, further enhancing straight-line stability.

The size of the shock absorber cylinders has been increased, making it possible to generate damping force with a small stroke to better combat small vibrations. And the damping characteristics of the shock absorbers have been optimised to give a flat ride at low speeds and reduce the impact of shocks during medium- and high-speed driving.

These rear suspension modifications have also facilitated a substantial increase in rear axle articulation, with wheel travel increasing by up to 20%, ensuring even greater levels of off-road capability over rocky or sharply undulating terrain.

The steering column has been redesigned to reduce the transfer of vibration from the road surface, and the power steering system itself has been fine-tuned. The rack ratio has been revised and the assistance characteristics of the power steering gears have been optimised to improve steering feel. Less effort is now required at low speeds, enhancing the vehicle's tight turn performance, whilst additional steering weight adds stability at higher speeds.

Newly-developed 17" all-terrain tyres compliment these suspension and steering enhancements with improved on-road ride comfort and superior off-road grip performance. Hilux models fitted with 18" wheels are equipped with new, highway terrain tyres designed to minimise noise for comfortable on-road driving.

Switchable All-wheel Drive, High- and Low-ratio Drivetrain

Awarding it outstanding all-terrain capabilities, the all-new Hilux is equipped with a switchable all-wheel drive system featuring a high- and low-ratio transfer case, and both front and locking limited slip rear differentials.

A new, high-capacity rear Limited Slip Differential caters for an increase in powertrain torque. The unit has been made lighter by a reduction in the number of pinion gears from 4 to 2, and by the miniaturisation of the side bearing.

Reliability has been improved by the heat treatment of the front bearing, by the Kanigen plating of the pinion shaft and by oil seal modifications. Fuel economy has been enhanced through the adoption of highly efficient tapered roller bearings, and the use of low-viscosity differential oil.

Improving both effectiveness and reliability, the electromagnetic differential lock now features a built-in solenoid actuator.

Via a new, dashboard-mounted drive mode selection switch, the Hilux's Automatic Disconnecting Differential system disengages the front differential when two-wheel drive is selected, enhancing refinement, fuel consumption and on-road driveability.

For increased convenience, it is possible to shift from four- to two-wheel drive on the move, and from two- to four-wheel drive at speeds below 50 km/h.

The front differential is now fitted with an oil temperature sensor to reduce the risk of overheating in all-wheel drive mode. If the oil temperature becomes abnormally high, the system alerts the drive to switch into two-wheel drive mode. If two-wheel drive is not engaged within 30 seconds, vehicle speed is automatically restricted to below 120 km/h.

New Brake Control Systems for Enhanced Off-road Capabilities

Complementing its proven, high- and low-ratio all-wheel drive powertrain, a new range of brake control systems raises the new Hilux's off-road capabilities to Land Cruiser levels.

An Active Traction Control system (A-TRC) uses both brake fluid pressure and engine control to distribute torque appropriately to all four wheels, delivering traction superior to that offered by a limited slip differential.

On detecting a loss of traction in one or more driven wheels, the system automatically brakes the relevant wheels and simultaneously re-distributes drive torque to those which have grip. This significantly improves the Hilux's off-road capabilities over both slippery and rocky terrain.

Downhill Assist Control (DAC) helps the driver to regulate vehicle speed on steep, slippery or bumpy downhill gradients. In circumstances when engine braking alone is insufficient to reduce vehicle speed, the system automatically controls brake fluid pressure to maintain a constant, low descent speed with the brake and accelerator pedals untouched by the driver.

Operating at speeds of less than 25 km/h, with forward speed controlled to between 5 and 7 km/h and reverse speed to between 3 and 5 km/h, DAC allows the driver to descend even the steepest slopes in stability, without the wheels locking, whilst concentrating on steering the new Hilux.

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) prevents the vehicle from moving backwards during an uphill start when the driver releases the brake pedal. The system temporarily maintains braking to all four wheels for a maximum of two seconds in order to hold the vehicle in place and prevent rollback.

Exceptional Towing Performance

Acting in combination, the vastly improved low and medium speed torque delivery of Toyota's newly developed 2.4 D-4D and 2.8 D-4D Global Diesel engines and the increased strength of the new, ladder-frame chassis have raised the towing capacity of the all-new Hilux to 3.2 tons.

To ensure reliable performance under the consistent high-load stress this substantial towing capability can create, several measures have been taken to enhance engine and transmission cooling performance.

All Hilux models feature a new radiator design. In addition to increasing the number of tubes and expanding the heat dissipation area, the fin shapes and coolant flow rate have also been optimised. As a result, heat dissipation performance has been improved by 10.4%.

The intercooler has been positioned in front of the radiator to improve its efficiency. And all models equipped with automatic transmission further feature a lightweight, aluminium multi-plate transmission oil cooler which improves heat dissipation performance by 18.6% to offer superior cooling abilities during high-load driving.

SAFETY

The Hilux's new, stronger, ladder-frame chassis offers increased deformation resistance, whilst its energy absorption performance has increased by 15% over that of its predecessor. This improves safety performance and occupant protection.

The chassis absorbs collision forces in three stages to reduce the effects of impacts on the body, engine and interior. Firstly, the front side rail extension area crumples and buckles. Secondly, the side rail collapses vertically near the suspension tower. And, thirdly, the side rail bends inwards in the 'kick' range.

Any residual front or side impact energy unabsorbed by the deformation of the frame structure is effectively distributed through the upper, lower and underside bodyshell structural members. The bodyshell itself features a high content of 590 MPa high-tensile steel, combining light weight with optimum strength to help reduce occupant injuries.

The risk of pedestrian injury has also been reduced by the adoption of impact absorbing structures to the front bumper, bonnet, fender bracket structure and cowl structure, reducing impact force to the head and legs of pedestrians during a collision.

SRS Airbags and Three-point Seatbelts

The new Hilux Double Cab is equipped with seven Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags: driver and passenger front and side airbags, a driver knee airbag and curtain shield airbags covering both front and rear seats.

All front and rear seats are fitted with three-point, Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seat belts. The front belts further benefit from a pretensioner and force limiter function. A seat belt reminder is provided for all seats, and the rear seats are also equipped with a Child Restraint System (CRS) top tether anchor for the securing of ISOFIX child seats.

Comprehensive Brake Control Systems

The all-new Hilux is equipped with a comprehensive array of brake control systems to help prevent accidents, maximise vehicle stability and even help drivers control trailers during difficult driving conditions.

The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) prevents the wheels from locking under heavy braking. Brake Assist (BA) generates a large brake force during emergency braking, supplementing the efforts of drivers who may not be able to depress the brake pedal with sufficient force.

An Emergency Brake Signal automatically flashes the vehicle's hazard warning lights during emergency braking, warning following vehicles to help reduce the possibility of a rear-end collision.

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) automatically distributes brake force between the front and rear wheels according to vehicle and road surface conditions. This not only optimises braking performance, but also reduces the brake pedal force required for effective braking.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) activates when sensors detect understeer or oversteer whilst the vehicle is turning. The system uses automatic control of both engine output and individual wheel brakes to counter the effects of understeer or oversteer, significantly enhancing vehicle stability and, hence, safety.

When trailer sway occurs due to cross winds, variations in the road surface or driver steering inputs, Trailer Sway Control (TSC) uses both brake and engine output control to suppress trailer movement before it becomes uncontrollably excessive.

Full described in the Driving Dynamics chapter, the new Hilux also benefits from three further new brake control systems -an Active Traction Control system (A-TRC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), which combine significantly enhanced active safety levels with simple, intuitive driver assistance under even the most extreme off-road conditions.