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NEW TOYOTA CELICA ANNOUNCED
10th January 2010. Toyota is to return to the coupé market by introducing a new FT86 concept car paving the way for the new Toyota Celica later next year, or early in 2012. It is rumoured that the new Toyota Celica will start at under £20000 (provided the pound doesn't sink even further against the yen). Toyota is focusing on two key dynamics: light weight and super roadholding. Perhaps surprisingly, the Celica will be twenty centimetres fewer than a 1-Srs Coupé, however it still offers seating for four people. This new Toyota is a JV with Subaru which is supplying the 2.0L boxer motor from the Impreza. It will kick out 146PS. Subaru is thought to be working on its own version of the FT86 which will undoubtedly include the well proven turbocharged motor with 230PS. If the handling and roadholding are in the Impreza league, these lightweight Toyota Celica coupes will be a class act.
New 2010 Toyota iQ
10th January 2010. The Toyota iQ may be Smart sized (well almost), but with the bigger 1.33 engine, it is so much more useable - and better all round. The third seat or extra load space is the vital improvement; but it also drives, handles and rides better than the Micro-German (or should we say French) rival. Unless its just you, or the occassional 'you two', we would unreservedly buy the iQ with the peppier 1.33 motor - you wouldn't regret the extra investment.
NEW TOYOTA AVENSIS REVIEW
Toyota isn't what you would call an adventurous brand. Indeed, the Avensis has forever characterised what a levelheaded, mid-size car really is. The new Avensis breaks with tradition setting out to add an "I want one" factor, alongside its reputation for being a dependable, reliable and practical motor car. Making the Avensis attractive was the first task, though initial opinions are not conclusive. Swooping lines and good detail certainly provide the Avensis with a better look than the outgoing model and glancing quickly, there is definite DNA from the Lexus IS, which is a positive. The new Avensis might have benefited from a little more panache, which a Mazda6 has in spades, but then Toyota's loyal customers might have considered it too much. The new Toyota Avensis interior is a master class being logically laid out and beautifully made. Bootspace is an impressive 509L. Driving the new Avensis is refined and a confidence-building experience. Baking and steering are competent, with a properly built feel, but the driver has limited feedback. The new 1.8L "Valvematic" motor performs well with offers a creditable 145PS with 157 gkm CO2 and the diesel is remarkably refined. The new Toyota Avensis gets top marks for safety equipment. A new Steering Assist Vehicle Stability Control (VSC+) rotates the roadwheels without prompt countering under or oversteer in emergencies. Though this is a very useful attribute, it isn't sufficient for Avensis to differentiate from its rivals. The new Toyota Avensis is thoroughly competent, and will suit its existing owners very well.