Toyota / Lexus News:
In a Canadian premiere, the new 2005 Avalon was officially launched. It is larger, longer and wider than the outgoing model. It also has a new, more powerful V6 engine. It displaces 3.5L and puts out 280 hp. It is the only full-size car in North America that is rated as a ULEV (ultra low emissions vehicle). The Avalon will be available in Touring and XLS versions. No prices have been made available.
Mid-way through 2005, the Highlander Hybrid will be commercialized. The Hybrid Synergy System is combined with the 3.3L V6 and develops 270 hp. It will be available in Limited trim only. No pricing has yet been announced.
The Tacoma, the AJAC truck of the year, is now also larger and more powerful. It has actually moved up a segment: from compact to midsize because of its larger dimensions. Its power comes from a 2.7L 4 cylinder or a 245 hp 4.0L V6 shared with the 4Runner.
There are very few changes in general for Toyota's product line. The Echo now has an optional commodity package that includes cruise control, keyless entry and a cargo net. The Camry Solara Convertible is being offered in a lower trim level with less equipment and at a lower price.
In another Canadian premiere, Lexus took the wraps off the redesigned 2006 GS sedan. Its styling is not as bold as the previous model but its lines remain very elegant. There are 2 engines offered: a 245 hp 3.0L V6 and a powerful 300 hp 4.3L V8. The GS 300 will have an AWD version where as the GS 430 will only be delivered in RWD form. Pricing begins at $64,300 for the RWD GS 300. The AWD retails for $66,700 and the GS 430 reaches $74,700. It will be available in March 2005.
The RX 400H is the hybrid iteration of Lexus's very popular RX 330. It basically carries all the mechanical aspects of the Highlander hybrid however with more panache.
The GX 470 receives an increase in hp from 235 to 270.
In a Canadian premiere, the new 2005 Avalon was officially launched. It is larger, longer and wider than the outgoing model. It also has a new, more powerful V6 engine. It displaces 3.5L and puts out 280 hp. It is the only full-size car in North America that is rated as a ULEV (ultra low emissions vehicle). The Avalon will be available in Touring and XLS versions. No prices have been made available.
Mid-way through 2005, the Highlander Hybrid will be commercialized. The Hybrid Synergy System is combined with the 3.3L V6 and develops 270 hp. It will be available in Limited trim only. No pricing has yet been announced.
The Tacoma, the AJAC truck of the year, is now also larger and more powerful. It has actually moved up a segment: from compact to midsize because of its larger dimensions. Its power comes from a 2.7L 4 cylinder or a 245 hp 4.0L V6 shared with the 4Runner.
There are very few changes in general for Toyota's product line. The Echo now has an optional commodity package that includes cruise control, keyless entry and a cargo net. The Camry Solara Convertible is being offered in a lower trim level with less equipment and at a lower price.
In another Canadian premiere, Lexus took the wraps off the redesigned 2006 GS sedan. Its styling is not as bold as the previous model but its lines remain very elegant. There are 2 engines offered: a 245 hp 3.0L V6 and a powerful 300 hp 4.3L V8. The GS 300 will have an AWD version where as the GS 430 will only be delivered in RWD form. Pricing begins at $64,300 for the RWD GS 300. The AWD retails for $66,700 and the GS 430 reaches $74,700. It will be available in March 2005.
The RX 400H is the hybrid iteration of Lexus's very popular RX 330. It basically carries all the mechanical aspects of the Highlander hybrid however with more panache.
The GX 470 receives an increase in hp from 235 to 270.
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