Archive for October, 2009

The 2010 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, which went on sale in March 2009, debuted revised exterior styling, a new four-cylinder powertrain and new safety, audio and convenience features. All Camry gas models are now equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VCS) with traction control (TRAC) as standard.


The best-selling passenger car in America for seven years running and 11 of the past 12 years, the Toyota Camry is available in four-cylinder and V6 models, and as the Camry Hybrid, equipped with Toyota’s industry-leading Hybrid Synergy Drive. The Camry is available in Camry, LE, SE, and XLE grades.


A new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) produces 169 hp for Camry, LE and XLE grades, replacing a 158 hp 2.4-liter engine. For sporty performance, the SE grade gets additional tuning to offer 179 horsepower. The new engine can be combined with a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. The available 268 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 continues with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard.


Exterior changes to the gas model Camry include a newly designed grille and front bumper, an enlarged lower intake, larger projector headlamps and restyled tail lamps. The Camry and LE grades feature restyled standard wheel covers. The XLE grade is equipped with new 16-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, and the SE grade adds new 17-inch alloy wheels.  The Camry Hybrid exterior enhancements include a unique grille and front bumper, a wider lower intake, restyled fog lights and 16-inch alloy wheels.


Inside, all 2010 Camry models gain auto up/down power windows with jam protection on all four doors. Camry and LE grades are available with an optional audio system featuring a new USB port for auxiliary music sources, Bluetooth®, integrated satellite radio, single-CD, and MP3 and streaming music capability.


The 2010 Camry Hybrid adds a newly designed gauge cluster and Fraichir™ cloth seating surfaces, which were already standard on the four-cylinder Camry XLE model. The Fraichir process blends a combination of silk protein and synthetic fiber, resulting in a surface that is gentle to the skin. Camry XLE and SE four-cylinder automatic models are now available with the Smart Key System featuring push button start and remote illuminated entry.


Performance and Efficiency


In tune with the needs of midsize car buyers, Camry provides excellent fuel economy. With its new 2.5-liter engine, the Camry returns an EPA estimated 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway and 22/32 with both manual and automatic transmissions. (The 2009 models with both the five-speed manual and five-speed automatic returned 21/31 mpg.) Camry V6 models have 19/28 MPG EPA-estimated ratings. The Camry Hybrid, which combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric drive motor, returns an EPA-estimated 33 MPG city/34 MPG highway.


The Camry’s 2.55-liter four-cylinder engine, standard on Camry grade, LE, SE and XLE, produces 169 SAE horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 167 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,100 rpm (179 hp / 171 lb.-ft. for SE grade) and can be mated to a new six-speed manual transmission or a new electronically controlled six-speed automatic.


The DOHC 3.5-liter V6, available in the LE, SE and XLE grades, delivers a substantial performance boost with 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm. The chain-driven camshafts employ Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) which controls valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds.  The V6 Camry models come equipped exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential mode for manual shifting when desired. Intelligent control adapts shifting strategy in response to driver input, with very fast kick-down and noticeable response.


The Camry Hybrid model owes its outstanding efficiency to Hybrid Synergy Drive, which produces a combined 187 horsepower and varies power between the gas engine and electric motor, or combines both, as needed. The first part of Hybrid Synergy Drive consists of a 147-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine coupled with an electronically controlled planetary-gear continuously variable transmission.


The second part combines a small, high-torque 40-hp electric motor, an ultra-small inverter with a specially designed compact battery, and a transaxle to seamlessly combine power from the electric motor and gasoline engine. Because there are situations in which the gas engine in a Toyota hybrid completely shuts off, air conditioning and power steering systems are driven electrically.


In addition, an “ECO” button limits energy consumption by the climate control system, and under certain conditions can help improve fuel economy.  Special attention paid to vehicle underbody aerodynamics, including the use of wheel spats and underbelly pans, helps yield a coefficient of drag of just 0.27, which can benefit fuel economy. The 2010 Camry Hybrid is certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), just one of a handful of cars that meets this strict standard. It produces over 70 percent less smog-forming emissions than the average new car.


Handling and Ride


The 2010 Camry offers responsive handling while providing the smooth, quiet ride that sets a benchmark for the segment. Four-wheel independent suspension is via MacPherson struts in front and a dual-link strut rear configuration. Camry, LE, XLE and Hybrid models ride on standard 16-inch wheels of either steel (Camry and LE) or aluminum (XLE and Hybrid), with the sporty SE model featuring standard aluminum 17-inch wheels.


All Camry models are equipped with four-wheel disc brakes. Toyota designed the Camry SE model to spice up the daily commute. Chassis modifications specific to the SE include springs, shock absorbers and bushings with firmer, sportier values than those used in other grades. The Camry SE also has a lower ride height  than other Camry models.


increase the SE’s torsional rigidity.  Tuning the SE chassis resulted in optimized underbody aerodynamics. Making the underbody as flat as possible helps to smooth and speed the airflow under the car, and engineers also specially tuned the balance between front and rear downforce.


Safety and Security


The Camry’s body structure is designed to absorb collision-impact forces and help minimize impact deformation to the passenger cabin. High-strength steel is used for B-pillar and rocker panel reinforcements to help manage overall body deformation in the event of certain side collisions. Inside the cabin, the seat frames also are designed to help absorb side collision loads. Dual-stage advanced SRS front airbags, seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag are standard on all Camry models.


All 2010 Camry models come equipped with a standard anti-lock brake system (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The Brake Assist feature is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the anti-lock brake system (ABS), BA supplements the applied braking power until the driver releases pedal pressure.


Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC) regulates engine output and brake application on individual wheels to help control loss of traction in turns. Camry Hybrid is equipped with the Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system that helps manage vehicle traction and stability through throttle control, brake application on individual wheels, and even minor steering correction if circumstances require.


Comfort and Convenience


Camry offers many storage spaces around the front-passenger area, including console side pockets. Storage options also include a large front console box equipped with an accessory power socket and auxiliary audio jack; this box is big enough to store nine CD jewel cases. Other storage areas include an accessory box behind the shift lever containing another power socket, a rear-console box with a card holder and a movable tray, and two large cupholders adjacent to the shift lever.


The four-cylinder Camry XLE and Camry Hybrid models are exclusively equipped with special seat fabric designed to be gentle on the skin. The fabric is treated by the Fraichir process, in which it is coated with a naturally occurring component called Sericin that has been extracted and refined from silkworm cocoons. This substance contains a natural moisturizing component.


The Camry’s standard equipment includes air conditioning with micro dust and pollen filter; power windows with auto up/down and jam protection for all four doors; power door locks; color-keyed power side mirrors; cruise control; halogen headlamps with automatic on/off feature; tilt and telescopic steering wheel; vehicle immobilizer, and a six speaker 160-watt digital AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary audio jack. All Camry audio systems can play CDs with MP3 files. The Camry LE adds an in-key remote keyless entry and eight-way-adjustable power driver’s seat.


The Camry XLE’s list of standard features includes an upgraded dual-zone automatic climate control system with steering-wheel controls, plus Plasmacluster™ ionizer technology to help reduce airborne mold spores, microbes, fungi, odors, germs and bacteria inside the passenger cabin. Other XLE features include a premium 440-watt JBL audio system with Bluetooth^® technology that allows hands-free calling with compatible phones; wood-style trim; power glass moonroof; reclining rear seats; fog lamps; and aluminum wheels.


The V6 Camry XLE is equipped with standard leather-trimmed seats. In the XLE grade, the rear seatbacks can recline eight degrees from their standard position to enhance passenger comfort. Rear-seat passengers also get dedicated personal reading lamps on moonroof-equipped Camry models.


The Camry Hybrid offers a standard equipment level similar to the XLE grade, but adds a standard Smart Key System featuring push button start and remote illuminated entry.. Push-button start allows drivers to lock, unlock, or start the car just by carrying the Smart Key.


Options


Options for select Camry grades include a power tilt/slide moonroof; heated front seats; voice-command DVD navigation system; leather-trimmed seating; rear spoiler, and the Smart Key system. Camry and LE grades are available with an optional audio system featuring with a new USB port for auxiliary music sources, Bluetooth®, integrated satellite radio, single-CD, and MP3 and streaming music capability.


When the available voice-activated DVD navigation system is added to the Camry (SE, XLE, Hybrid), it is integrated with the premium JBL audio unit and includes a four-disc in-dash CD changer.


Exterior Design


A distinctive, athletic exterior design sets Camry apart in a competitive segment. Camry is built on a 109.3 inch wheelbase to provide outstanding interior room: 101.4 cubic feet of passenger space, with 38.3 inches of rear legroom.


The Camry SE has a distinctive look with a standard full body kit plus 17-inch aluminum wheels, distinct black, honeycomb-style grille and smoked tint halogen headlamps. Inside, the Camry SE is distinguished by a unique sport-trimmed interior in dark charcoal or ash gray with a leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel and blue-colored Optitron gauges.


Interior Design


The Camry’s roomy interior shows the attention to detail that has helped this model set such high standards for sedan comfort. Controls on the two-level dash and console are easy to see and use. Large instrument panel gauges are easy to see at a glance, and the odometer and trip meters are illuminated at all times to improve visibility. Standard on XLE and Camry Hybrid is a multi-information display that provides the outside temperature, estimated range, average speed, average fuel consumption and a trip odometer.


With the 60/40 fold-down rear seats, Camry offers 15 cubic feet of luggage space (14.5 cu. ft. with the reclining rear seat in XLE or fixed rear seat in SE, and 10.6 cu. ft. in the Camry Hybrid). The trunk is equipped with a grocery hook, utility box and luggage net (on XLE) for added convenience.

This is one of our favorite videos of all time about the Toyota Pickup. Yes it is from Britain, yes it is a diesel, which we do not have, but it is still a classic. It is a long segment, so give yourself about 45 minutes.

Torrance, CA. – October 26, 2009 – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), USA, Inc., along with its advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi LA, today announced The Prius Experience App is available for free from the App Store. The Prius Experience App has four modes to help educate and entertain iPhone™ users interested in learning more about the EPA-rated 50 MPG 2010 Toyota Prius hybrid.

“The Prius Experience App gives iPhone users a dynamic, in-depth experience of the third-generation Prius in the palm of their hands,” said Tim Morrison, corporate manager of marketing communications for TMS.

Notably, The Prius Experience App takes advantage of the iPhone’s built-in accelerometer to give users a 360-degree interior tour of the Prius. The app has four modes:

• Tour – Rotate your iPhone for a 360-degree interior view of the Prius, then explore the features that make the car so unique.

• Interact – Use your iPhone camera to interact with the Prius ads you see in your favorite magazines.

• Draw – Touch the innovative Multi-Touch user interface to draw directly into the environment of the Prius, then watch it react to your shapes and objects.

• Play – Think your way through 10 levels of a force-based game that utilizes the accelerometer.

The Prius Experience App is available for free from the App Store on iPhone or at www.itunes.com/appstore/.

Additionally, iPhone users can see their tree drawings created in “Draw” displayed on the Reuters digital billboard in Times Square October 26 to 28. Street teams will work with participants in Times Square. Remote participants can view the event at http://www.reuters.com/news/us.

The app is part of the third-generation Prius “Harmony Between Man, Nature and Machine” marketing campaign. In addition to print ads, The Prius Experience App is being promoted on the Prius mobile site at m.toyota.com/prius, the Prius Facebook fan site at www.facebook.com/prius and mobile banners.

We often rationalize large-ticket purchases based on price, and even more so when our pocketbooks are pinched. We see a lot of hybrid affordability comparisons these days. Here’s mine. So, let’s do the comparison.

The manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $22,000 for the all new third-generation 2010 mid-size Toyota Prius II is $1,806 less than the $23,806 median price of the mid-size sedan segment.

Compared to vehicles in its segment, the compact class Honda Insight LX (base model) is priced $1,400 higher (2009 compact car median price is $18,395) and has only a modest fuel-economy advantage.

Let’s do the math based on a Prius II (base MSRP of $22,000) versus an Insight EX (base MSRP of $21,300). These models are equipped the way most consumers want.

Using industry loan averages (60 month term, 7.45 percent annual percentage rate [APR], $2,400 down, tax, title and registration), the Prius has a monthly payment of $435 while the Insight carries a monthly payment of $420…a difference of $15. That’s just a couple of Starbucks double shot Grande Lattes a month.

Now let’s factor in annual fuel costs based on the EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 50 mpg (city and highway combined) for Prius and 41 mpg (city and highway combined) for Insight and 15,000 miles at $2.62 a gallon (national average as of 6/8/2009). The Prius will save you about $172 per year or $14 a month over the Insight.

Now the overall difference is just a little over a dollar. So for a buck more each month, you get a roomier vehicle that is a full hybrid with better mileage ratings, enhanced performance, vehicle stability control, driver’s knee airbag, beltless engine, rear disc brakes….well, you get the drift.

If you compare the Prius I (base MSRP of $21,000), due out later this year, to the Insight LX (base MSRP of $19,800), which is still not an apples to apples (size and equipment) comparison, the monthly payment difference including the fuel savings is only about $12.

So, when considering hybrid affordability, look beyond MSRP. When the bigger picture is seen, Prius definitely provides more value for your money.