Tag Archives: Toyota

Toyota is finally charging ahead with its electric vehicle plans

Electric cars are resculpting the world. While gasoline still reigns supreme, vehicles propelled by battery power are quickly becoming the way forward for many automakers—including Toyota, which finally revealed its overwhelming support for electrification with 15 brand new battery-powered concept cars.

On Tuesday, CEO Akio Toyoda took to the stage at a media briefing in Tokyo to reveal the automaker’s future EV strategies across the Toyota and Lexus brands. During the CEO’s time in the spotlight, he revealed plans to electrify a whopping 30 new and existing models over the next decade. And while the name of the game is green energy and electric efficiency, the company is also pledging not to forget about vehicles for work and play.

Toyota’s literal curtain-dropping event resulted in the automaker showing off 15 new concept vehicles, all of which will be underpinned by Toyota’s much-needed commitment to electrification. Despite being the purveyor of the Prius, the company hasn’t necessarily been so keen on full electrification in the past. The automaker previously placed its bet on hydrogen power over battery-electric vehicles, which gave competitors like Volkswagen a bit of a head start in electric vehicle technology.

Leading the pack will be Toyota’s flagship brand, Lexus, which will offer an electrified version of every vehicle it sells in North America, Europe, and China by 2030. It will also axe the combustion engine completely in these markets by 2035. This begins with the launch of the Lexus RZ crossover in 2022, which is built on the same platform shared by the upcoming Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra.

[Related: Toyota and Subaru are teaming up for this spacious electric SUV concept]

Lexus will also launch electrified vehicles in at least three other segments, including a full-size SUV, a sedan, and a supercar that supposedly inherits some of the best driving characteristics from the legendary Lexus LFA—only with electric motors powering the wheels instead of a gas-gulping V10. Toyota didn’t reveal much about its electric supercar, but did hint that it would have more than 430 miles of range, a zero to 60 MPH time in the low-two-second neighborhood, and the possibility of solid-state battery tech.

The company will also launch a number of vehicles under the Toyota nameplate, including a number of crossovers and SUVs in all sizes (full-size, standard, and compact), plus an ultra-efficient small urban crossover, as well as a midsize sedan.

Toyota also previewed three niche concepts that feel like lifestyle vehicles. A sports coupe similar in styling to the Supra, a pickup truck, and a new take on the iconic off-road capable FJ Cruiser called the Compact Cruiser all made appearances on stage.

Presently, Toyota offers two pickups, the midsize Tacoma and full-size Tunda. The concept shown at the event likely previews a midsize pickup, given the Tacoma’s status as a top-seller in Toyota’s lineup. This would represent one of the first electrified pickups in the segment, as the currently-announced offerings from other automakers (like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Hummer EV, and Rivian R1T) are all full-size. It’s not yet clear if Toyota will have an offering in both segments as it transitions to battery power.

Finally, Toyota also showed off two futuristic van concepts that it calls the Micro Box and Mid Box. The names refer to the size, with the Micro Box the smaller of the two. The automaker didn’t reveal exactly how these two concepts might slot into its lineup, but it may possibly target commercial markets (like the Toyota e-Palette) or last-mile deliveries.

[Related: Toyota’s GR Yaris experiments with a hydrogen combustion engine]

Earlier this month, the automaker announced its plans to build a battery plant in North Carolina, a move which comes after a $3.4 billion pledge towards “automotive batteries” in the US throughout 2030. Toyota believes its gambit will help the company sell as many as 1.8 million electrified vehicles stateside (and 3.5 million globally) over the next decade.

And while these vehicles were all just concepts, the first modern and totally battery-powered car from Toyota we know about will be the 2022 Toyota bZ4X, which is expected to go on sale in the spring.

Watch the event, below:

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The Right Spec: 2022 Toyota 4Runner

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2022 4Runner front

” data-medium-file=”http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-4.png” data-large-file=”http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner.png” class=”aligncenter size-large wp-image-1775836″ src=”http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner.png” alt=”2022 4Runner front” width=”610″ height=”257″ srcset=”http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner.png 610w, http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-3.png 75w, http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-4.png 450w, http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-5.png 768w, http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-6.png 120w” sizes=”(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px”>

With every mainstream automaker on the planet seeking to pad their bottom line with tasty SUV profits, the number of jacked-up wagons on offer is truly dizzying. Most of them are car-based, of course, including several in Toyota’s own wheelhouse – witness the mystifying Corolla Cross introduced this year.

This makes the 4Runner something of a glorious throwback. Perched on its toes and looking out into traffic with a lantern jaw, this SUV may be old as the hills but is enjoying some of its most robust sales to date.

It’s also more expensive than ever, with this year’s base price some $540 north of the 2021 model. There is often heated debate around these parts as to the 4Runner’s value, with Toyota seeming to charge these prices because they can, even though the truck itself hasn’t changed substantially in well over a decade.

This author will opine that buying a two-wheel-drive 4Runner is pointless, equating such a machine to owning a sleeveless winter jacket. Why the company chooses to offer a 2Runner is beyond my comprehension since they are surely not chasing an attractive price point given the base model Monroney. With this in mind, the Trail Special Edition is $40,650 while a TRD Off-Road is $41,135. That’s not a huge spread, less than some of us have spent on a snazzy meal. The mighty TRD Pro, if you’re wondering, is an eye-watering $52,120.

No matter the trim, 4Runner is powered by a 4.0L V6 engine making 270 horsepower and roughly a like amount of torque. Lashed to this engine is a five-speed (yes, five) automatic transmission. A big advantage of the TRD Off-Road trim is the addition of a locking rear differential, which can make all the difference between hauling oneself out of a mudhole and having to call for help. Or, it makes for bragging rights if you’re into buying SUVs but not using them for their intended purpose. I feel these part-time 4×4 systems in these 4Runner trims are superior when compared to the full-time system in the Limited with its Torsen limited-slip center diff lock. Feel free to duke it out in the comments about this point.

<img data-attachment-id=”1775838″ data-permalink=”https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner/2022-4runner-int/” data-orig-file=”http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-11.png” data-orig-size=”1200,663″ data-comments-opened=”1″ data-image-meta=”{“aperture”:”0″,”credit”:””,”camera”:””,”caption”:””,”created_timestamp”:”0″,”copyright”:””,”focal_length”:”0″,”iso”:”0″,”shutter_speed”:”0″,”title”:””,”orientation”:”0″}” data-image-title=”2022 4Runner int” data-image-description=”

2022 4Runner front

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The TRD Pro trim goes on to add Fox-branded shocks with remote rear reservoirs and TRD-tuned front springs yet add little in terms of approach/departure angles and total ground clearance. Given the price walk of nearly 10 grand, there’s an argument to be made that money is better spent in the aftermarket if one is hell-bent on building the baddest 2022 4Runner on their block. There is no shortage of well-crafted parts available for this thing from any number of off-road suppliers.

It’ll have not escaped your notice we haven’t said much about interior differences between the trims – that’s because there aren’t many. All 4Runners pack the same pathetic infotainment system, and only top-drawer examples get the likes of dual-zone climate control and panoramic view monitors. The latter doubles as a trail cam on the TRD Pro, by the way.

<img data-attachment-id=”1775840″ data-permalink=”https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner/2022-4runner-rear/” data-orig-file=”http://offroadtrucksxtreme.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/the-right-spec-2022-toyota-4runner-15.png” data-orig-size=”662,352″ data-comments-opened=”1″ data-image-meta=”{“aperture”:”0″,”credit”:””,”camera”:””,”caption”:””,”created_timestamp”:”0″,”copyright”:””,”focal_length”:”0″,”iso”:”0″,”shutter_speed”:”0″,”title”:””,”orientation”:”0″}” data-image-title=”2022 4Runner rear” data-image-description=”

2022 4Runner front

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Will the crew at Toyota soon introduce a new 4Runner? Maybe. Look how long they kept the old Tundra in production, not to mention the current Tacoma. Neither of them, particularly the Taco, seems worse for wear in terms of sales. As for the 4Runner, we’ll recommend the TRD Off-Road and its locking rear diff. Hey, at least you’re likely to rake in the bucks come trade-in time.

Please note the prices listed here are in United States dollars and are currently accurate for base prices exclusive of any fees, taxes, or rebates. Your dealer may (and should) sell for less (obscene market conditions notwithstanding). Keep your foot down, bone up on available rebates, and bargain hard.

[Images: Toyota]

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2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport Brings Off-Road Capabilities To The Road

With room for up to seven, the fifth-generation 4Runner remains the most capable of its proud family tree, and it is also the most accommodating and most comfortable. Other changes for 2022 make a great SUV even better across all grades. All models now have standard LED high beams, in addition to the LED low beams and fog lights that were already standard on most grades. Blind Spot Monitor + Rear Cross Traffic Alert is now standard on SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road Premium, TRD Pro and Limited (and part of an available package on TRD Sport).

With the addition of the TRD Sport, the 4Runner line for 2022 includes the SR5, SR5 Premium, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, Limited and TRD Pro.

The burly 4Runner TRD Pro adds standard Multi-Terrain Monitor to its roster of off-road tech. Using strategically placed cameras, the system lets the driver check surroundings on the trail, with the ability to spot potential obstacles not easily seen from the cabin. The Limited grade adds a standard Panoramic View Monitor, which provides a similar function for checking surroundings when maneuvering the vehicle in tight spaces. The Limited grade and TRD models also add a premium Multi-Information Display.

All 4Runner models add Rear Occupancy Alert. When operational parameters are met, the system does what its name suggests, reminding a driver to check the rear seat for a child or pet before exiting the vehicle.

Road-Hugging TRD Sport

Similar to Toyota’s mid-size Tacoma truck sibling, the new 4Runner TRD Sport grade joins 4Runner TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models in the line. Where the latter two add trail-ready equipment and features designed for tackling tough terrain, the TRD Sport sharpens its road-focused manners with sophisticated chassis technology while adding style and flair. The result is an exceptional combination of style and performance in a full-capability SUV.

With an emphasis on everyday comfort and road dynamics, the 2022 4Runner TRD Sport adds the Cross-Linked Relative Absorber System (X-REAS) suspension to enhance on-road handling. The X-REAS system, also found on the 4Runner Limited grade, automatically adjusts the damping force of shock absorbers when driving over bumpy surfaces or when cornering. A center control absorber cross-links the shock absorbers on opposite corners of the vehicle, like an “X,” to help reduce pitch and yaw by offsetting opposing inputs.

The 4Runner TRD Sport is available with either 2WD or part-time 4WD with a 2-speed transfer case. The 2WD 4Runners provide an ample 9.0 inches of ground clearance, while 4WD models offer an even more generous 9.6 inches. Based on the SR5 grade, the 2022 4Runner TRD Sport swaps the SR5’s 17-inch wheels for machine-faced 20-inch wheels with Dark Gray accents. All 4Runners come equipped with a full-sized spare tire, regardless of their wheel size.

TRD Sport Style and Tech

The TRD Sport gets its own look with color-keyed accents on the grille, rocker panels and body molding, plus the signature TRD-style hood scoop and a front spoiler and black roof rails. Inside, the 4Runner TRD Sport replaces the SR5 grade’s cloth seat surfaces with black SofTex-trimmed seats, also adding heated front seats. The seats feature unique gray contrast stitching, and the front headrests have gray TRD stitched logos. TRD Sport floor mats are included, and a standard TRD shift knob completes the cabin makeover.

Standard features carried over to the new TRD Sport include an 8-way power driver’s seat, leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic steering wheel, air conditioning with rear seat vents and pollen filter and power-sliding liftgate window. A 4.2-inch multi-information display provides the driver with readouts for outside temperature, odometer, trip meters, fuel economy estimate averages and TSS-P features, including Lane Departure Alert and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

The 4Runner TRD Sport features a standard 8-inch multimedia touchscreen display. In addition to Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility, the system includes a USB media port, hands-free phone capability, advanced voice recognition and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology and a SiriusXM® 3-month All Access trial. Connected Services include Safety Connect® with 1-year trial and Wi-Fi Connect with up to 3 GB or 1-month trial, whichever comes first.

Toyota Safety Sense P Standard for All

All 2022 4Runner models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), an advanced suite of driver-assist technologies that includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning System, Automatic High Beams and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Along with TSS-P, 4Runner models also come equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System that includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC, or A-TRAC with 4WD) and Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and the Smart Stop Technology (SST) brake-override system.

Eight standard airbags include driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System; front seat-mounted side airbags; driver and front passenger knee airbags; and all-row, roll-sensing side curtain airbags.

The Ready-for-Adventure SUV

4Runner’s inherent strength starts with its tough-as-nails, body-on-frame construction featuring a four-link rear axle and coil-spring suspension, with the Limited grade and new TRD Sport also adding X-REAS to their suspension features. The robust chassis is also the foundation of 4Runner’s comfortable ride quality.

A 270-horsepower DOHC 4.0-liter V6 engine with 278 lb.-ft. of peak torque gives 4Runner plenty of get-up-and-go. The engine’s Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps optimize torque across the engine’s operating range responsiveness in a variety of driving conditions.

Mated to the V6 is a five-speed ECT-i automatic transmission that includes a sequential shift mode for manually shifting when more control is desired. Like all 4Runner grades, the TRD Sport is equipped with a standard integrated tow-hitch receiver and wiring harness. All models can tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds, with a maximum 500-pound tongue weight.

All 4Runner 2WD models feature standard Automatic Limited Slip Differential (Auto LSD), a function of the traction control (TRAC) that allows some wheel slippage to help the vehicle dig out from sand or snow, for example. The available part-time 4WD system uses Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) and bolsters off-road capability with a 2-speed transfer case with selectable low-range. By distributing drive force to any one wheel in contact with the ground, A-TRAC can help maintain traction when it senses wheel slippage occurring on terrain irregularities and slippery patches.

Exclusive to the 4Runner Limited, a full-time 4WD system uses a Torsen center differential with locking feature and a three-mode, center console-mounted switch. The system employs a 40:60 torque split in most driving situations and alters that in response to slippage. In addition, if the front wheels are slipping while the vehicle is turning, the Torsen® differential changes the split to 30:70. If the rear wheels slip while the vehicle is turning, the split changes to 53:47.

Maximum Traction Tech

The Toyota 4Runner offers the right tool for the off-road mission, because some people go farther off the beaten path than others. An array of technologies enhance the capability provided by the 4Runner’s high-strength chassis and available 4WD. Standard Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) provides additional control when accelerating from a stop on a steep incline. The system helps to briefly hold the vehicle stationary while the driver transitions from the brake pedal to the accelerator.

Limited and SR5 models equipped with 4WD also feature standard Downhill Assist Control (DAC). This feature augments low-speed descending controllability by helping to maintain a constant slow speed and preventing wheel lockup, therefore allowing the driver to concentrate primarily on steering.

The 4Runner TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models add the capability of an electronic-locking rear differential and Toyota’s Crawl Control (CRAWL) feature. The latter helps maintain a constant speed in low-speed, off-road situations, enhancing vehicle control when driving up, over or down obstacles. With the transfer case shifted into low range, CRAWL regulates engine speed and braking force to slowly move the vehicle forward or in reverse at one of the five driver-selectable, low-speed settings. This function allows the driver to focus on steering without having to also modulate the throttle or brake pedal in challenging terrain. TRD Pro models come equipped with Multi Terrain Monitor (MTM), which allows the driver to check the immediate surroundings for potential obstacles by simply pressing a button to display front-, rear- and side-camera views on the 8-inch multimedia screen. MTM is available on TRD Off-Road Premium.

As trail conditions change, the driver can adapt the vehicle using the standard Multi-Terrain Select system using a dial to choose a mode that matches prevailing surface conditions. The system will then adjust wheel slip control accordingly.

For example, on loose terrain such as mud and sand, above-normal wheel slip is permitted, allowing wheel-spin to work in the vehicle’s favor. The Mogul setting is suitable for extremely uneven terrain, such as V-ditches, slopes and ridges – uphill or down. In this mode, wheel slip is minimized and the system acts more like a limited slip differential. An overhead console groups the off-road control switches in one location.

TRD Pro Earns Its Name

The TRD Pro badge on any Toyota truck or SUV signifies the most off-road-capable vehicle in its respective line. For 2022, it will be offered in the unique color of Lime Rush, which will be added to exterior color options Super White, Magnetic Gray Metallic and Midnight Black Metallic. Black TRD alloy flow-form wheels are equipped with Nitto Terra Grappler tires, and specially tuned Fox internal bypass shocks and TRD-tuned coil springs yield an inch of front lift for improved trail-tackling capability.

The rear Fox shocks feature piggyback-style remote reservoirs to maintain damping performance over demanding off-road terrain. Delivering the best of both worlds, the shock tuning improves trail driving isolation and high-speed performance without compromising on-road comfort and steering response. Like other Toyota TRD Pro vehicles, the 4Runner TRD Pro features a 1/4-inch-thick aluminum front skid plate with red TRD lettering. The TRD roof rack is exclusive to 4Runner.

Inside, the TRD Pro features HVAC controls like the one found in the Limited grade, plus a standard moonroof and Premium Audio with JBL speakers featuring Clari-Fi™ technology. The 4Runner TRD Pro features a standard TRD-branded cat-back exhaust, which adds a powerful-sounding growl for the V6 engine.

On and Off-Road Suspension

For even greater off-road prowess, the TRD Off-Road grade can be equipped with Toyota’s optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which allows extended wheel travel at slow speeds for greater off-road capability and control. The KDSS system hydraulically adjusts the lean resistance provided by the stabilizer bars. Sway resistance is reduced for off-road driving to help minimize any tendency for wheel lift. On pavement, KDSS enables the bars to work conventionally, reducing body lean to enhance agility and control.

The 4Runner Limited, while certainly off-road capable, emphasizes everyday comfort and pavement handling with the X-REAS suspension system now also shared with the 2022 TRD Sport.

4Runner Style

The 4Runner exudes a rugged look in all grades yet maintains a timeless SUV style all its own. The SR5 and TRD models ride on 17-inch alloy wheels that are available in three designs: 6-spoke for SR5 models, 7-spoke for TRD Off-Road models and flow-form matte black alloy wheels for TRD Pro.

The TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium grades are distinguished by color-keyed bumpers and overfenders, hood scoop and silver painted front and rear bumper accents. “TRD Off-Road” badges adorn the C-pillars. The Limited is the only 4Runner with a chrome-plated grille insert and chrome exterior trim. All 4Runner models have LED fog lights as standard equipment, with the TRD Pro featuring Rigid Industries LED fog lights.

Space to Roam

For carrying gear, 4Runner offers multiple options. With the second-row seats in use, the cargo area offers up to 47.2 cu. ft. of carrying space. If it’s just two people hitting the road or trail, folding the second row opens a cavernous 89.7 cu.-ft. cargo area. The second-row seats fold flat without having to remove the headrests.

The 4Runner SR5 and Limited grades offer available third-row seating, with a split 50:50 seat that folds flat. When so equipped, the 40:20:40 second-row seat has a one-touch walk-in function to provide easy access to the third row. The seats can be folded from the side or at the rear, using separate one-touch levers. The second-row seats, which include a center armrest, individually recline up to 16 degrees in four steps.

For power on the go, the 4Runner has a standard 120V outlet and two 12V outlets. The available pull-out cargo deck can support up to 440 pounds to make loading and unloading heavy items easier. It also provides seating for tailgating and campsite relaxation.

Toyota Value from Bumper to Bumper

All 4Runner grades are equipped with Smart Key with Push Button Start. The SR5 Premium and TRD Off-Road Premium add a significant comfort upgrade with SofTex®-trimmed seats, heated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

The 4Runner Limited delivers a luxury experience with leather-trimmed, heated and ventilated 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat (with memory) and 4-way power adjustable front passenger seat, along with dual-zone automatic climate control. Limited grade’s standard front and rear clearance sonar system helps make parking maneuvers easier and safer. Standard on Limited grades is the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM), which provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view to see objects around the 4Runner.

The Premium Audio system in the 4Runner Limited and TRD Pro adds Dynamic Navigation with 3-year trial, six JBL speakers with subwoofer and amplifier, Dynamic POI Search, Dynamic Voice Recognition, Remote Connect with 1-year trial, Wi-Fi Connect with up to 2 GB within 3-month trial and Destination Assist with 1-year trial.

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Lexus Finally Gets Charged Up Over EVs

The first Lexus electric vehicle will be a rapid, five-passenger SUV with a dramatic shape that previews the future of the Japanese luxury brand. As The Detroit Bureau has previously noted, Lexus and its parent company, Toyota, have not always been enamored by EVs. Toyota’s President and CEO, Akio Toyoda, called BEVs overhyped late last year, and he’s questioned their environmental benefits as countries plan to phase out sales of gas and diesel-powered automobiles.

Akio Toyoda

While the debut of the Lexus LF-Z Concept and Toyota bZ4X show the two brands are moving ahead with full-electric models, their ambitions for EV models is far more muted than rivals like Volkswagen and General Motors. In total, Lexus will have 10 “electrified” vehicles in its lineup by 2025. 

Keep in mind that Toyota and Lexus count hybrid models, even those without any electric-only range, as falling into the electrified category. This being said, Lexus’ first dedicated EV will be part of this grouping and promises to have the performance to match competing model like the Audi e-tron, Jaguar I-Pace, and Tesla Model X.

What you see is what you’ll get

In terms of design, the production version of the LF-Z should remain close to the concept. This includes highly sculpted sides, tapering tail, and a grille-less version of Lexus’ signature (and still controversial) spindle grille. The gaping maw found on current Lexus vehicles has been blanked off on the LF-Z Concept – and arguably looks better for it. Similar to today’s Jaguar I-Pace, the LF-Z seeks to bridge the gap between swept-back sedan and high-riding 

2021 Lexus LF-Z concept rear

The 2021 LF-Z concept is just the latest LF concept car shown by Lexus.

The cabin of the LF-Z Concept offers fewer hints about what to expect when Lexus’ electric SUV rolls into dealerships within the next 3 years. The driver sits in a pod-like enclosure in which the right-side bottom of the seat sweeps upward and connects to the dash. 

No big surprise, the dashboard consists of touch screens, three of them to be exact. And true to concept car norms, the end result looks extremely futuristic, mostly unfeasible for production, and incredibly uncomfortable. Why do concept car seats never have cushions of any sort?

What we know so far

Details like pricing, performance, and range are still under lock and key. While the Lexus EV will be based on the same platform as the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra, very few specifics about these joint-venture-engineered vehicles has been released up till now. 

All three ride on versions of the jointly developed e-TNGA platform, and the Lexus variant will certainly have the upper hand when it comes to outright performance. While the LF-Z Concept boasted in excess of 500 horsepower and a range of nearly 400 miles, we expect those figures to float slightly back to Earth in the production model.

2021 Lexus LF-Z concept cockpit

The LF-Z’s battery-electric concept interior

A range of 250 to 350 miles sounds realistic, as does a 0-60 mph time of roughly 4.0 seconds – the LF-Z supposedly needed only 3.0 seconds for the same acceleration run. Lexus has stated its electric SUV will feature an advanced all-wheel drive system capable of shuttling power and grip extremely fast from wheel to wheel.

Lexus has said even less about pricing than it has any mechanical aspects of its first dedicated EV (the brand presently sells an electrified version of the UX crossover in Europe). An educated guess would put the production version of the LF-Z around $60,000-$70,000, which is right on point with rivals from Audi, Jaguar, and Tesla. 

America’s Top 10: the bestselling vehicles in the United States

If America’s favorite flavor is vanilla, it’s a preference that can be seen in its 10 most popular vehicles. With the first half of the year now in the history books, it’s interesting to note that while the Pandemic changed much in Americans’ lives, it did little to change their automotive preferences.

Toyota nabbed four of the ten most popular vehicles, Honda two. Nissan, GM, Ford and Stellantis round out the list. Notably, the list mirrors the current new car market, with cars accounting for 30% of the slots, with the remainder consisting of trucks and SUVs. 

10. Toyota Highlander: 144,380 units

Now in its fourth generation, the Toyota Highlander continues to please with its practicality, comfortable nature, impressive safety, and frugality with fuel. Boring? Perhaps. But it excites those who needs a stellar family hauler. Prices start at $35,085.

9. Honda Civic: 152,956 units

A perennial favorite now in its 10th generation, the newest version reached dealer showrooms in June. The combination of clearance pricing on the old Civic and the arrival of a new model contributed to a 19.6% sales increase. Prices start at $21,700.

8. Toyota Corolla: 155,531 units

Given that the Corolla sedan and hatchback’s sales rose nearly 42% this year, Toyota’s decision to continue producing passenger cars when Detroit automakers dropped them seems like a winning idea. Prices start at $20,025.

7. Toyota Camry: 177,671 units 

It’s no surprise that the Camry remains America’s most popular passenger car, a position it’s held since 1997 – with the exception of 2001. Sales rose 41% this year, a gift handed to them by GM, Ford and Chrysler. Prices start at $25,045.

6. Nissan Rogue: 182,289 units

When it comes to nomenclature, there’s nothing rogue about the redesigned 2021 Nissan Rogue. Yet its boxy new wardrobe, roomy cabin, and vast range of capabilities make it far more competitive. No wonder sales rose 70% this year. Prices start at $25,850.

5. Honda CR-V: 213,199 units

The CR-V has long proven adept at serving middle America on its virtues: a spacious cabin, lot of space to stash stuff, great fuel economy and the choice of a turbocharged or hybrid driveline. Demand rose 54% in 2021. Prices start at $25,350.

4. Toyota RAV4: 221,195 units 

With the addition of a plug-in hybrid model, the Toyota RAV4 remains the most popular crossover SUV in the country, with year over year sales up 20.6%. Credit its dynamic design, which is no longer a stylistic sleep aid. Prices start at $26,250.

3. Chevrolet Silverado: 286,410 units

If there’s any sign that the Silverado’s redesign missed the mark, it can be seen in its decline to third place behind its competitors from Ram and Ford. Sales were up 8.3%, although light-duty model demand rose only 3%. Prices start at $29,300.

2. Ram Pickup: 313,068 units

Boldly styled with a sophisticated well-thought out cabin, Ram pickup sales have risen 27.5% this year on the strength of a constant flow of special edition models, including the new high-performance TRX edition. Prices start at $33,250.

1. Ford F-Series: 362,032 units

Entering the year with an all-new look, a new hybrid model, in addition to its high-performance and forthcoming all-electric variants, the F-150 remains America’s best-selling vehicle for 39 consecutive years for good reason. Yet microchip shortages has contributed to a 1.5% sales decline this year, with Ram outselling it in the second quarter. Prices start at $29,290.

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Toyota Dumping Long-Running Land Cruiser After 2021

Toyota is rumored to be cutting the Land Cruiser from its line-up after 2021.

Every year, automakers closely examine their line-ups to see what vehicles might not be feasible to bring back and it appears Toyota’s ready to part ways with one of its longest-running models after 2021: the Land Cruiser.

According to MotorAuthority.com, after officials gave the Land Cruiser a vote of confidence last year, things have changed so significantly, it’s elected to send it out to pasture — which if you’re going to send a Land Cruiser anywhere, that would be a good start.

Fans of the Lexus version, the LX, need not shed tears as it will continue to offer the model, albeit as a turbocharged V6 rather than a V8-powered behemoth. Toyota officials haven’t confirmed the report about the long-running ute.

(Toyota product plans leak out.)

For 2021, Lexus has made a slew of updates to its SUV flagship, the LX 570. It’s expected to continue after 2021, unlike the Land Cruiser.

“Unfortunately it’s gone, which I’m pretty bummed about,” an anonymous dealership source told the website, adding “it’s a punch to the gut for all of us enthusiasts who love the product. There’s no illusion it’s coming back, and it’s completely dead for the moment.”

The Heritage Edition Land Cruiser, which debuted this year, returns for 2021 with a third row option. Buyers also get new color choices: silver and gray joining black and white. About 10% will come in the new colors, driving demand up significantly, according to the dealer source.

The Land Cruiser has been around for six decades, and its current form for nearly 15 years, likely making it a profitable vehicle for the Japanese automaker, despite falling sales. Toyota’s moved 3,536 Land Cruisers in 2020, which was up from 3,222 in 2018. Toyota sold 614 Land Cruisers in the U.S in the first quarter of 2020, a drop from 807 during the same period in 2019.

(Toyota betting all-wheel drive can save its passenger car line-up.)

The move is likely to clear the way for replacement model, expected to be known as the 300 series, the website reported, adding it could be powered by the same V6 turbo coming for the Lexus LX model going forward.

Earlier this year, TheDetroitBureau reported about Toyota’s product plans, which were filled with changes, although the Land Cruiser was not part of the behind-the-scenes revealed. Toyota is expected to introduce several new models, including an all-new crossover based on the Corolla and a new version of the 86 sports coupe.

The Tundra is likely to follow the lead of another Japanese truck – the Honda Ridgeline – and get a significant makeover in the near term. The domestic automakers have really separated themselves in terms of sales in the U.S. and the Tundra is going to need an update if it’s to get back in the race.

(Toyota riding wave of new product launches.)

Other “long-in-the-tooth” utes include the 4Runner and Sequoia, which were expected to carry one. Both models will remain body-on-frame and, word has it, both will share the underlying platform to be used for the next-generation Tundra pickup.

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