Toyota Auris, 2010

 

 

 Toyota Auris, 2010

Launched in 2007 at the heart of the highly competitive European C-segment, the Toyota Auris has built a solid reputation for roominess, comfort, practicality and reliability combined with a secure, economical driving experience.
With a choice of full hybrid drive, and three petrol and three diesel units offering the performance- and economy-enhancing benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive, the Toyota Auris 2010 engine line-up offers customers the most comprehensive range of powertrains in the C-segment.

The application of Toyota Optimal Drive across the Toyota Auris range in 2009 has already effected a significant improvement in the model's environmental performance, lowering CO2 emissions to segmentbest levels. Even before the 2010 introduction of Hybrid Synergy Drive to the model range, the overall Toyota Auris CO2 average has been reduced from 152 g/km in 2007 to 142 g/km in 2009.

Exclusively designed for the European market, the Toyota Auris HSD introduces full hybrid technology to a core model at the heart of the Toyota line-up, the first step in the deployment of HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive technology) across the company's entire European model range by the early 2020s. Built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK, it targets an important shift in customer perceptions of full hybrid technology.

With remarkably low 89 g/km CO2 emissions , the Toyota Auris HSD plays a significant role in further reducing Toyota's whole-fleet CO2 average which, having fallen by 16 g/km between 2008 and 2009, already stands at just 130 g/km.

Design
The Toyota Auris 2010 combines dynamic exterior design changes with extensive interior improvements in quality, materials, ergonomics, driving comfort, and visual appeal. The Toyota Auris HSD incorporates several unique styling details to improve the car's aerodynamic performance. The interior incorporates hybrid-specific instruments, switchgear and upholstery.

Exterior design: a stronger, more confident road presence
Redesigned bumpers have increased the front and rear overhangs by 15 mm and 10 mm respectively. As a result the Toyota Auris 2010 has increased in overall length by 25 mm to 4245 mm, while the long, 2600 mm wheelbase remains unchanged.

With a new horizontal bar-type grille, more aggressive headlamp clusters, LED daytime running lights and a wider lower bumper air intake, the entire front of the Toyota Auris 2010 has been restyled to enhance the car's stable, ground-hugging stance and create a more youthful image.
The rear design has been strengthened to provide a stronger, more confident road presence. The bumper corners have been extended outwards and create a new 'catamaran' bumper profile which accentuates the Toyota Auris 2010's muscular proportions and wide track.

The latest addition to the model line-up, the Toyota Auris HSD incorporates several unique exterior design features which both improve the car's overall aerodynamic efficiency and indicate the presence of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain.
The upper grille opening has been optimised to help the air flow smoothly over the upper half of the body, and the size of the lower grille has been enlarged to reduce airflow resistance as well as improving engine cooling efficie

Interior design: improvements in quality, ergonomics and visual appeal
Soft touch materials now cover the top of the driver's instrument cluster and the upper glove box, and the seat upholstery has been upgraded across the range. The height of the centre console storage box has been raised by about 50 mm, and it now functions as an armrest. A new, more comfortable steering wheel incorporates redesigned audio and Bluetooth phone control switches.

In conjunction with the introduction of Hybrid Synergy Drive, the Toyota Auris HSD interior features several significant modifications. The driver's instrument binnacle has been revised, with the tachometer replaced by an Eco Drive Assist Monitor. The centredial information panel includes additional, Hybrid Synergy Drive- specific information such as Energy Flow and Eco Drive Result monitors.

A hybrid blue Smart Start switch has been added to the side of the instrument cluster. The centre console incorporates a Parking Control switch, EV, Eco and Power drive mode switches and a shiftby- wire transmission lever with a high-quality silver paint finish.
Toyota Auris HSD instrument and switchgear illumination has been amended to greenish white numbers on a hybrid blue background for the meter panel, audio and heating controls, and the Smart Start, Drive Mode and Parking Control switches.

Powertrains and driving dynamics
The Toyota Auris 2010 powertrain line-up features a choice of full hybrid drive, and three petrol and three diesel engines offering the performance- and economy-enhancing benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive. The introduction of a Hybrid Synergy Drive model makes this is the most comprehensive range of powertrains available in the C-segment, catering for every customer requirement.

As a result of Toyota Optimal Drive technology, the Toyota Auris will be the first Toyota to comply with Euro 5 emission standards across the entire European model range by July 2010.
Starting at just 118 g/km, CO2 emissions have been lowered throughout the engine range, offering significant cost of ownership benefits to fleet customers.

1.33 litre Dual VVT-i with Stop & Start system
The 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i petrol engine generates 73 kW/ 99 DIN hp and maximum torque of 128 Nm at 3800 rpm, while returning an average fuel consumption of 6.0 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of only 139 g/km.

The unit benefits from numerous Toyota Optimal Drive engine optimisations. A combination of lightweight technology, a resin cylinder head cover and intake manifold, and a remarkably compact design has effected a substantial reduction in engine weight and size. Combustion efficiency has been improved through the use of a high efficiency intake port, a high compression ratio and long reach spark plugs.

Extensive friction reduction measures include enhanced engine block rigidity and bore circularity, an improved valve roller rocker arm design with a new camshaft profile, small, lightweight pistons with a low friction coating, low viscosity oil and a water jacket spacer.
Toyota Optimal Drive's environmental technologies are represented by the application of a wide ratio 6-speed manual transmission and optional, Stop & Start System technology.

The innovative system automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is stopped. The world's first permanently engaged ring gear mechanism allows for automatic engine restart within half a second when the clutch is lifted, with significant reductions in engine start noise and seat vibration levels.
Thus equipped, the 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i unit's fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are lowered still further, to just 5.9 l/100 km and 136 g/km respectively.

Toyota 4Runner, 2010

 

 

 

 Toyota 4Runner, 2010

When the first Toyota 4Runner sport utility vehicle (SUV) was launched back in 1984 it was a revolutionary new vehicle based on the mechanics of the four-wheel-drive Toyota pickup truck. The Toyota 4Runner combined the versatility and go-anywhere ability of four-wheel-drive with the comfort and utility found in passenger cars.

25 years, 4 generations and more than 1.5 million sales later, the Toyota 4Runner continues to evolve while remaining close to its roots. The all-new fifth-generation Toyota 4Runner is even more rugged and athletic, and packed with more power and better mileage. A completely redesigned interior and unique cargo area make the newest Toyota 4Runner smarter, more comfortable, and more versatile than ever.

More rugged than the Toyota Highlander and more versatile than the FJ Cruiser, the 4Runner combines the toughness and durability of body-on-frame construction with multi-use design that excels at a wide variety of tasks.
The newest Toyota 4Runner is taller, wider and longer for 2010, and is available in a variety of configurations. It will be offered in three models, top-of-the-line Limited, a well-equipped SR5, plus a Trail grade for those who require maximum off-road capability.

Drivetrain configurations include rear wheel 4x2, part-time 4x4 and full-time multi-mode 4x4 with a locking center differential. All 4x4 models are equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 mated to a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission. The 4x2 models will be equipped with either a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed ECT automatic or the 4.0-liter V6 with the five-speed ECT-i automatic. Optional third-row seats allow for up to seven-person capacity.

Exterior Styling
The design strategy for the new Toyota 4Runner emphasizes a more rugged, powerful stance. Large diameter wheels and tires were added to not only improve off-road performance, but also enhance the Toyota 4Runner's truck-based characteristics. In addition to its styling emphasis on ruggedness and outdoor adventure, the new design utilizes a combination of Toyota's classic boxy form and progressive styling.

All Toyota 4Runner grades feature rugged new bumpers and wider shoulders, with newly designed head- lamp and tail-light systems, which offer a newly-minted, technical design quality and better nighttime performance. The front ends square fender flares meld with a muscular profile that links with a beefy and square rear bumper and back door.

Aluminum alloy wheels are 17-inches in diameter on SR5 and Trail grades and 20-inches on the Limited, and include a full size spare.
In addition to its distinctive front grille, the SR5 grade also adopts overfenders and mud guards to help tackle inclement weather and off-road conditions. A roof rack comes standard for hauling equipment for outdoor activities.

The Trail grade is designed to maximize off-road performance with a superior approach and departure angles, high ground clearance, and an array of functional upgrades for the most demanding active outdoor enthusiast. It can be distinguished by a unique hood scoop, unique 17-inch wheels, black outer mirrors, front and rear bumper guards and dark smoke treatment on the head and tail lamps.

The Limited and SR5 grades add to the muscular design with special touches that provide a premium appearance. The front end includes a chrome-plated front grille insert, fog lamp bezel and front bumper molding. Front and rear overfenders and side skirts are color-keyed. Chrome plating is also found on the side molding, roof rack and rear bumper.

New Engine Choices
The 2010 4Runner is powered by a new 4.0-liter V6, which now generates 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. Through the use of advanced engine management that includes dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the new 4.0-liter engine offers the best of both worlds, adding more power while improving efficiency. For 2010, the new V6 engine produces 34 horsepower more than the prior V6, and 10 horsepower more than the optional V8 of the previous generation.

Mileage improvements have come from careful attention to wind flow, reducing aerodynamic drag to a Cd of 0.365. EPA-estimated mileage improves from 16 city and 21 highway to 17 city/23 highway for the 4x2, and from 16 city and 20 highway to 17 city/22 highway for 4x4 models. Both achieve an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined, an improvement of more than five percent. With the new 4.0-liter engine, maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds.

In addition to the upgraded V6 engine, a proven 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with VVT-i is available on the 4x2 SR5 model. The gutsy DOHC, 16-valve 2.7 makes 157 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a four-speed automatic transmission with 2.80:1 first gear and 0.753 overdrive 4th, the 2.7 delivers 18 city/23 highway mpg.

Toyota

Toyota, 2011

= Toyota Auris HSD
= Toyota Highlander

Toyota, 2010

= Toyota Auris
= Toyota 4Runner

Toyota, 2009

= Toyota iQ
= Toyota FT-EV II Concept
= Toyota FT-86 Concept

Toyota, 2008

Toyota, 2007

= Toyota FT-HS Concept  

Toyota Auris HSD, 2011

 

 

 Toyota Auris HSD, 2011

Designed for the European market, the Toyota Auris HSD (Hybrid Synergy Drive) introduces full hybrid technology to a core model at the heart of Toyota's model line-up. It marks the first step in the deployment of HSD technology across the company's entire European model range by the early 2020s.
Built in Britain at Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK's Burnaston factory, it targets an important shift in customer perceptions of full hybrid drive technology.

The benefits of exceptional fuel efficiency and low CO2 emissions that are inherent in Hybrid Synergy Drive, the new Toyota Auris HSD will deliver everyday usability, driving comfort and remarkable quietness for a smooth and sophisticated driving experience that is unlike anything else in the C-segment.

Toyota Auris HSD will be available in two levels: 89g/km and 92g/km, both offer the lowest CO2 emissions and strongest fuel economy in their class. HSD will thus play a significant role in further reducing Toyota's European whole-fleet average CO2 emissions. These have already fallen by 14g/km between 2008 and 2009 to 132g/km, thanks to the introduction of Toyota Optimal Drive technology.

Exterior design
Toyota Auris HSD adopts the new exterior styling introduced across the Auris 2010 model range, including a completely redesigned front-end. It also displays a number of model-specific features which help improve the car's aerodynamic efficiency and reference the presence of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain.
The opening in the upper front grille has been optimised to promote a smooth flow of air over the upper half of the body, and the lower grille has been made larger to reduce airflow resistance and improve engine cooling efficiency.

With a revised foglamp configuration, the flat, vertical surface of the corners of the front bumper corrects the airflow as it passes over the front wheels, helping minimise turbulence in the wheelarches.
Further improvement in aerodynamic efficiency is achieved by a ride height reduced by 5mm; purpose-designed alloy wheels with integrated aerodynamic caps; low rolling resistance tyres; and a large, roof-mounted rear spoiler. Working together to smooth and control the flow of air over the car, these HSD-specific design modifications reduce the coefficient of drag from Cd0.290 to 0.283, contributing to reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Interior design
The interior features a number of modifications, including a revised instrument binnacle in which the tachometer has been replaced by an Eco Drive Assist Monitor. The centre-dial information panel includes additional HSD-specific information such as Energy Flow and Eco Drive Result monitors.
A hybrid blue smart start button has been added to the side of the instrument cluster and the centre console incorporates switches for the Parking Control and EV, ECO and Power drive modes, and a shift-by-wire gear lever.

The illumination is changed to display greenish-white numbers on a hybrid blue background on the meter panel, audio and heating controls, and the Smart Start, Drive Mode and Parking Control switches.
A choice of upholsteries specific to the model will also be available: a blue-flecked fabric or Alcantara panels with leather surrounds.

Hybrid Synergy Drive
Toyota Auris HSD is a full hybrid capable of operating in petrol and electric modes alone, or a combination of both. Its Hybrid Synergy Drive system delivers the energy-saving qualities of a series hybrid, combined with the performance benefits of a parallel hybrid.

The technology delivers impressive, seamless acceleration and remarkably quiet running, with class-leading fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from 74.3mpg and 89g/km.
Toyota's latest generation Hybrid Synergy Driver uses a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine, a powerful electro motor, generator, high performance battery and a power control unit. A power split device with a planetary gear system combines and reallocated power from the engine, electric motor and generator according to the car's operational requirements.

The key to the successful installation of the system in Toyota Auris's front-engine platform is the fact the electric motor, generator and power split device are housed in a single transmission casing that is the size of a conventional gearbox. The seamless E-CVT electric continuously variable transmission is controlled by shift-by-wire technology via an electric shift lever.

The lightweight and compact four-cylinder, 1,798cc Atkinson Cycle VVT-i engine develops 97bhp at 5,200rpm and 142Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. The high performance permanent magnet synchronous 60kW electric motor generates a maximum 207Nm between zero and 13,000rpm.
Powered by the hybrid battery, the electric motor works in tandem with the petrol engine to boost acceleration in normal driving. When the car is operating in EV (electric vehicle) mode, it alone powers the driven wheels.

During deceleration and under braking, the electric motor acts as a high-output generator to effect regenerative braking, recovering kinetic energy that would normally be wasted as heat for storage as electrical energy in the battery.

In combination, the petrol engine and electric motor generated a maximum system power output of 134bhp, giving performance to match a conventional 2.0-litre petrol or diesel hatchback. Conversely, Toyota Auris HSD lower CO2 emissions and significantly lower NOx emissions than diesel-powered cars of comparable performance.
Furthermore, when operating in its switchable EV mode, it cuts CO2 and NOx emissions to zero, driving for up to 1.3 miles (2km) at speeds up to 31mph (50kph), depending on the level of battery charge and driving conditions.

Toyota Auris HSD eco driving experience
Toyota Auris HSD has four driving modes, including three that can be selected "on-demand" by the driver to maximise the HSD powertrain's capabilities and provide comprehensive eco driving support for those who want to adopt a more environmentally efficient style of driving.

EV mode allows for ultra-quiet running on electric motor power lone, giving zero fuel consumption and emissions. ECO mode maximises efficiency and fuel economy, and Power mode boosts system performance. In addition, an Eco Drive Monitor helps driver's maximise the HSD system's efficiency.

The driver can monitor the flow of energy around the HSD system in each mode, via the multi-information display in the instrument panel, which helps promote an easy, fuel-efficient driving technique. There is also a clear and simple power consumption gauge that shows how much power is being used or generated at any given time.

The advantage of the inherent quietness of Hybrid Synergy Drive, Toyota has paid special attention to NVH reduction measures to create a calm and quiet cabin environment at all speeds. Road and engine noise have been rigorously suppressed with extensive use of sound-proofing materials. Full-thickness glazing and a multi-layer acoustic windscreen further reduce noise for quieter performance at cruising speeds.

Toyota FT-86 Concept, 2009

 Toyota FT-86 Concept, 2009

The Toyota FT-86 Concept is 4,160mm long, 1,760mm wide, and 1,260mm high with a wheelbase of 2,570mm, giving it a compact feeling that is easy for the driver to handle while able to accommodate four occupants. In addition to being light and having a low center of gravity, the Toyota FT-86 Concept boasts the handling of a racing car as well as a 6-speed manual transmission and ADVICS brakes.

The stylish concept captures the heart with the "functional utility" of its highly-refined body. It is the creation of Toyota Europe Design Development known as ED2, which has established body lines that take into consideration a low center of gravity and aerodynamics. The interior is distinctive, featuring an instrument panel with a gray and white base, gauges with red neon lights and digital displays, and a navigation system. In addition, a zipper that evokes an image of interior lapping with minimal covering of a highly-refined body presents a striking display.

The Toyota FT-86 Concept is neither an electric vehicle nor a hybrid vehicle, but is a sports model with a gasoline engine developed to convey the essential appeal of automobiles in a new era. It is a must-see concept car that expresses TMC's desire to once again create a Toyota sports car.

The Small FR Sports Concept Vehicle that Combines Environmental Performance and the Joy of Driving

TMC seeks to develop the ultimate earth-conscious environmentally-considerate vehicle with a focus on hybrid technologies without losing sight of the appeal of cars themselves or the joy of driving.

Over the past several years, the need has been rising for motor vehicles that take into consideration global warming and other environmental issues, while there has also been concern that there have been too few new sports cars that make the heart beat faster and that the time is right for a new generation of sports cars. In response to these needs, TMC has developed the Toyota FT-86 Concept, a sports car equipped with a 2,000cc, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated gasoline engine that evokes the joy of driving a car and the pleasure of vehicle ownership.

Toyota FT-EV II Concept, 2009

 Toyota FT-EV II Concept, 2009

The Toyota FT-EV II Concept, a compact electric vehicle designed for short distance travel. Its design and technology look to a future society where EVs will be in common use, among a range of different means of transport that will reflect user requirements, the type of energy used and the local energy supply infrastructure.

Toyota FT-EV II Concept is a high-quality vehicle concept, designed primarily for urban driving with a body that is even more compact than that of the Toyota iQ, but still with room for four seats on board.

Drive-by-wire technology allows all the vehicle functions to be controlled using a joystick, including the accelerator, brakes and steering. Removing the throttle and brake pedals frees up legroom for the four-seat design.

The exterior features a low front cowl and an additional window below the level of the windscreen to give extra forward visibility. To improve safety through the quality of all-round vision, the rear lamp clusters are see-through LED units. To ensure easy access in tight spots, there are electric sliding doors on both sides.

Top speed is above 60mph and a full-charged battery will give a range of more than 50 miles, which is ample for most urban journeys. The ride is quiet and comfortable with smooth acceleration, thanks to Toyota-developed motor control technology, itself part of the hybrid system that sits at the heart of the company's environmental technologies.

Toyota FT-EV II Concept Dimensions
* Length: 2,730 mm
* Width: 1,680 mm
* Height: 1,490 mm
* Wheelbase: 1,900 mm

 

Toyota FT-HS Concept, 2007

The Toyota FT-HS hybrid sports concept.

The FT-HS incorporates hybrid capability while maintaining sports car essentials, such as a sleek profile, lightweight aero-dynamic materials, and an advanced high-output powertrain for revolutionary acceleration and optimal performance. This 21st century sports car is fun-to-drive with eco-friendly benefits such as ultra-low emissions and fuel efficiency. The FT-HS appeals to an emerging buyer who grew up eco-conscious and perceives technology as a necessity, not a luxury.

The two-plus-two concept is a front-engine, rear-drive sports car with a projected zero-to-60 acceleration in the four-second range. A powerful V6, 3.5L-engine is coupled with a 21st century sports hybrid system with a target power output of approximately 400-horsepower. At a mid-priced market position, FT-HS would be a true "attainable exotic" with 21st Century performance.

FT-HS expresses the core values of a Toyota Brand design strategy that combines two key elements: J-Factor and Vibrant Clarity. J-Factor refers to the local and global acceptance of Japanese-inspired design and cultural sensibilities.

The exterior design was led by Calty designer, Alex Shen. From a design perspective, the theme of the FT-HS achieves sleek, taut surfaces in its exterior features - especially in the doors and body style. The front and rear have been sculpted to remove mass around key functional components. Freeform geometrics define the integration of fluid surfaces contrasting hard-edge "Aero-Corners" which promote smooth airflow and reduce turbulence.

The roof has a distinctive scooped-out section designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and provide head room at the key areas. Made from carbon fiber Kevlar, the roof retracts so that the roof panel and back window pivot fluidly in a downward motion to stow in the rear seat space.


The vehicle's triangular profile has a floating "C" pillar, aero corners, a full upper-body pan, and innovative open top. A hood features a scalloped channel, exposing the hybrid engine. Integrated component architecture can be seen in the aerospace-inspired lighting. The tail lamp unit spans the entire rear, and has an integrated retractable spoiler. Light-emitting diode (LED) clusters are located in the headlamps and the wing for energy-efficiency and decreased heat loss. Other exterior features include a speed-activated wing that elevates at high speed for additional stability and traction. The rear showcases a carbon fiber lower diffuser with integrated wide exhaust and carbon fiber wheels.


The driver-oriented interior was created by Calty designer, William Chergosky and exudes sleekness, technology, and performance. The lean skeletal look is achieved with exposed cross-car architecture and high-tech materials such as carbon fiber, and titanium. FT-HS' interior features create a dedicated driver's cockpit which include subtractive mass expressions such as cross-car instrument panel structure and delta wing driver pod.

By eliminating the "B" pillar and creating a suspended "C" pillar, the minimalist style works in conjunction with subtractive mass. An integrated instrument panel surrounds the driver, creating an enclosed pod effect. Armrests flow seamlessly into the door and surrounding interior.

Seating is optimized for a lightweight appearance and function: the seating accommodates four and then coverts to a two-seater when the roof retracts. The passenger-seat area is open with a simple exposed airbag on the cross-car beam.

A telescoping hub-less steering wheel incorporates semi-automatic paddle shifters and allows the meter to be shifted forward in order to shorten the driver's focus-time between the road and meter, and ultimately enhance driver focus.

Toyota FT-HS Concept Vehicle Preliminary Specifications Drivetrain
3.5 Liter V6 hybrid electric
DIMENSIONS (inches)
* Overall Length: 170.27
* Overall Width: 73.23
* Overall Height: 50.79
* Wheelbase: 104.33
Wheels: Carbon Fiber
Tire Sizes: Front 245/35R21 Rear 285/30R21

Toyota iQ, 2009

Toyota iQ, 2009

The Design

The objective was a new kind of city car, one that would accommodate four people within an overall length of less than three metres. The result was a landmark solution that will have a long term influence on Toyota's future vehicle development. Toyota iQ is the ultimate expression of refined, yet environmentally efficient urban mobility.
The extraordinary interior space in a car that measures just 2,985mm long, 1,500mm high and 1,680mm wide is a tribute to the determination and ingenuity of Toyota's design and engineering team.

It can carry four people (three adults plus a child) in comfort and safety at motorway speeds, is just the beginning of the story. Starting with a clean sheet of paper, Toyota has created an ingenious and distinctive new city car. And with its proportionally large, 2,000mm wheelbase, Toyota iQ has a compact yet muscular stance that is like no other car.
Toyota iQ's design represents the essence of Toyota's J-factor heritage, which embraces the finest elements of Japanese aesthetics, such as miniaturisation and modernism. Most importantly it brings contradictory elements into harmony, such as "small yet spacious" or "hi-tech yet human".

Engineered for environmental Excellenge
The Toyota iQ represents the successful outcome of Toyota's well-established drive to reduce the environmental impact of its vehicles without compromising performance and driving dynamics. With CO2 emissions as low as 99g/km (with manual transmission), it is clearly a city car that's in the right place at the right time.
Its innovative, aerodynamic packaging has been achieved through a low overall height, low centre of gravity and wheels pushed out to the four corners of the car. This gives agility at low speed and unprecedented stability for a small car on motorways and winding roads. A minimum turning radius of 3.9 metres further enhances its nimble handling, even in tight city streets.

The Multidrive transmission
Multidrive uses Toyota's latest continuously variable transmission (CVT) technology to give a very smooth shift feel while optimising the balance between performance and fuel economy. It continuously monitors and selects the most appropriate gear ratio and shifting speed, automatically eliminating "shift shock" or jumps while changing gear. It maximises engine torque without unnecessary acceleration and smoothes gear ratio changes, for example limiting uphill shifts and making downhill shifts to achieve optimum engine brake force. The system provides all the city-friendly characteristics of a conventional automatic gearbox.

The Gear shift indicator
Models with manual transmission are equipped with a gear shift indicator which shows the driver when to change up or down a gear to achieve the best environmental performance. The system takes driving conditions, accelerator pedal pressure and vehicle speed into account and can return fuel consumption savings of between 0.5 and three per cent compared to normal gear shifting, depending on individual driver habits.

The Future developments
The Toyota iQ's innovations will be adapted and evolved for future Toyota models. The car is a major milestone in Toyota's environmental commitment and efforts to develop technologies for much lower emissions.

Outstanding Active and Passive Safety
Toyota iQ benefits from sophisticated active and passive safety technology to protect driver, passengers and pedestrians, with a range of breakthrough features rarely seen in small vehicles.
ABS integrated with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) is standard on all models. Steering assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) combined with Traction Control (TRC) is also provided across the range and incorporates Electric Power Steering Control to minimise the risk of under- or oversteer.
The new braking system has 255mm front discs and 180mm drums. For collision safety and "braking feel", a link-type brake pedal is fitted.

The driver has a knee airbag, which, because of the short steering column, can be positioned closer to the driver's knees, reducing deployment time and the amount of inflation required. On the front passenger side there is an innovative seat cushion airbag that works with the seatbelts to reduce and disperse force to the head, chest and upper body. This airbag is more effective in restraining hip movement than conventional knee airbags, given Toyota iQ's asymmetrical dashboard design.

Protection from side impacts is provided by two front side airbags, designed to restrain the chest and pelvis at the same time. Two side curtain shield airbags protect all four occupants from side impact to the head and neck.
Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seatbelts are fitted to all seats, with additional pretensioners and force-limiters for the driver and front passenger.

World-first rear window airbag
Toyota iQ marks a world-first breakthrough with a rear window curtain shield airbag. This deploys from the roof lining behind the rear headrests to protect occupants in a rear-end collision.
Isofix child seat anchors are fitted to the rear seats. A high tensile strength steel seat frame construction with integrated headrests provide driver and front passenger with collision safety and whiplash protection performance equal to Toyota's latest active headrest systems.
With its 360-degree safety approach, Toyota aims to fulfil Euro NCAP's five-star rating for occupant protection.