Whats New for Toyota

  • 2009 Toyota Venza

    2009 Toyota Venza

    The Toyota Venza is a new Camry-based 5-passenger wagon with a 5-inch taller profile. The inside features front bucket seats, a pronounced center console and a 60/40 split rear seat to expand the cargo area. Toyota offers the Venza with a choice of four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines each mated to a standard six-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is optional.

  • 2009 Toyota Yaris 5d Liftback

    2009 Toyota Yaris 5d Liftback

    A 5-door hatchback version of the Yaris joins the sedan and 3-door hatchback.

  • 2009 Toyota Corolla S

    2009 Toyota Corolla

    The tenth generation Corolla is slightly wider and has a lower profile than the outgoing model; however, the interior is virtually identical in size. Toyota offers Corolla in Standard, LE, XLE, S, and XRS trim levels. Most models are equipped with an all-new 1.8-liter rated at 132-bhp. A 158-bhp, 2.4L four cylinder is standard on XRS models. The S and XRS also feature a standard body kit with an underbody spoiler, fog lamps, rocker moldings and a rear spoiler.

  • 2009 Toyota Corolla Matrix S

    2009 Toyota Corolla Matrix

    The second generation Matrix features a new profile with a lower roofline. The side profile is substantially different and features a thick c-pillar where the prior model had more glass and the look of a small wagon. Aside from the reduced height, all other measurements are virtually the same. Engine options include a 1.8L I4 rated at 132-bhp, and a 2.4L rated at 158-bhp. All-wheel-drive returns to the lineup after a brief absence.

  • 2008 Toyota Sequoia Platinum

    2008 Toyota Sequoia

    Toyota's largest SUV, the Sequoia is all new for 2008. Based on the Tundra, the second generation Sequoia has grown in every conceivable dimension to match its domestic rivals. Powered by either a 4.7L V-8 or 5.7L V-8, the Sequoia boasts tow ratings up to 10000 pounds. The Sequoia is available in 2WD and 4WD models.

  • 2009 Toyota RAV4

    A new 2.5L four-cylinder becomes the new base engine. The engine is more powerful with an increase of 13 bhp and 7 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy ratings are also up slightly. The 2009 RAV4 wears a new grille and front bumper. Most models feature a revised rear bumper and new tail lamps. The RAV4 also features a number minor equipment changes.

Toyota is rapidly approaching world domination in the realm of automobile manufacturers. With a reputation for dependable, fuel-efficient vehicles, Toyota cars end up at the top of many shopping lists, and for many, a Toyota purchase is an automatic decision. Toyota offers a full-line of vehicles that fill both standard vehicle categories, as well as many niche vehicles like the FJ Cruiser SUV.

Toyota's most visible new product this year is the Venza 5-passenger crossover. Although it is arguably a Camry station wagon, the Venza offers optional AWD and a five-inch taller profile to appeal to the SUV crowd. The interior features front bucket seats, a pronounced center console and a 60/40 split rear seat to expand the cargo area. Toyota offers the Venza with a choice of four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, each mated to a standard six-speed automatic.

Although Toyota has recently focused on trucks and SUVs, their car lineup receives a shot in the arm for 2009 with the introduction of an all-new Corolla, Matrix, and a new five-door Yaris subcompact model.

The popular Toyota Corolla is in its tenth generation; the latest model is slightly wider and lower than its predecessor. Otherwise, Toyota has been conservative with the changes to one of its top selling models. Unlike the Corolla, its hatchback variant, the Corolla Matrix has dramatically different styling. The second generation Matrix has a lower roofline and a thick c-pillar, losing the small wagon look of the first generation. Aside from the roofline, the Matrix is otherwise unchanged in size.

The Highlander and RAV4 also receive some attention for 2009. The Highlander adds a new base model powered by a four-cylinder engine for improved fuel economy. The RAV4 also features a new four-cylinder engine that improves power and efficiency. Front-end styling revisions and changes to standard equipment are part of the RAV4 makeover.

Next up for Toyota will be the launch of an all-new Prius hybrid.

advertisement