2022 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

The 2022 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 4x4 TRD is a rugged and capable pickup truck that is designed for adventurous drivers.

This truck is built for tough terrain, with a powerful engine, capable suspension, and advanced off-road technologies. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or exploring off-road trails, the Toyota Tundra TRD model is ready to perform.

The heart of the 2022 Toyota Tundra TRD is its 5.7-liter V8 engine, which delivers a massive 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This power is combined with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission that provides quick and responsive acceleration. The 4×4 system on the TRD model also includes a locking rear differential and a transfer case that gives you added control when you’re off-road.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is built to tackle tough terrain, with a capable suspension that includes TRD-tuned Bilstein shocks, TRD front and rear anti-sway bars, and TRD-stamped aluminum skid plates. These components work together to provide a comfortable and confident ride, even over rough and uneven surfaces. Additionally, the TRD model comes with 18-inch TRD black alloy wheels and BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, which provide a strong grip in all conditions.

The interior of the 2022 Toyota Tundra is designed for comfort and functionality. The truck features premium materials, including leather-trimmed front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and metallic accents. Some of the aesthetic choices with the hidden camo behind the mesh layer in seats is a nice touch. In terms of comfort, the seats feel support and plush, with some of the rigged stiffness along the side panels to immerse yourself into the Baja feel. The truck also features a large touchscreen infotainment system that provides easy access to a range of features, including navigation, music, and climate control.

Safety features are an important consideration for any vehicle, and the 2022 Toyota Tundra TRD is no exception. The truck is equipped with a range of advanced safety technologies, including a backup camera, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the truck has a five-star crash test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, making it one of the safest pickup trucks on the market.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra Double Cab 4×4 TRD pro is a rugged and capable pickup truck that is designed for adventurous drivers. With its powerful engine, capable suspension, and advanced off-road technologies, this truck is ready to tackle tough terrain and provide a comfortable and confident ride. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or exploring off-road trails, the Toyota Tundra TRD model is a great choice.

Model: 2022 Toyota Tundra Hybrid Crew Cab TRD Pro

Sticker Price (As tested): $82,795 

Engine: 5.7-liter V8 engine

Horsepower: 381 horsepower

Torque: 401 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Drivetrain: 4×4

Seating Capacity: 5

Dimensions:

Length: 228.9 in

Width: 79.9 in

Height: 76.2 in

Cargo Bed Length: 66.7 in

Maximum Towing Capacity: 10,200 lbs

Fuel Economy: 12.9L/100km City, 11.6L/100km Highway

Suspension: TRD-tuned Bilstein shocks, TRD front and rear anti-sway bars, and TRD-stamped aluminum skid plates

Wheels: 18-inch TRD black alloy wheels

Tires: BF Goodrich all-terrain tires

Infotainment: Large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, music, and climate control

Safety Features: Backup camera, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, 5-star crash test rating (NHTSA)

Automotive Reviews Truck
2022 Tacoma TRD PRO

2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

Go back in time when Back to the future was just coming out in movie theaters. There is a reason why Marty McFly was driving a Toyota 4x4.

It was popular and Toyota pickups were everywhere in North America. Were they under powered, sure. Did they feel stiff to drive, yes. Was your arm tired from shifting gears all the time. Maybe, but that was the fun in owning a 4×4 truck. You learned to adapt and you had fun driving it. Who wouldn’t have fun driving along a ravine with a hundred-foot cliff 3 inches from the passenger side and the back tires digging in as you release the clutch. Or coming down from a mountain logging road and falling into a washed-out creek. Fun!  Now you strap a 500lb tent on top of the box and drive to work everyday wondering if you should open it up and see how the tent sets up.

Not to mention the gas you’re burning with all that weight your driving around with. Well not to worry because the Toyota Tacoma TRD is here to rekindle that lost spirt. And yes, it has an optional 6 speed manual transmission.

Classic interior with many tech upgrades. Seating for up to five with available premium leather seats and leather wrapped steering wheel. 4.2” TFT multi-information display featuring Apply Car play or Android Auto or upgrade to an 8” touch screen display, blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert and intelligent clearance sonar.

The Tacoma is equipped with a 3.5-litre, DOHC V6 with VVT-I mated to a 6-speed automatic or 6 speed manual transmission. The engine puts out 278 hp and 265 lb ft of torque. This combination of power and size allows you to tow up to 6500 lb and is equipped with trailer sway control.

Available electronically controlled locking differential provides more traction on the  rear wheels. A Multi Terrain select regulates wheelspin by automatically adjusting the engine throttle and brakes, helping improve traction. Available crawl control that adjusts acceleration and braking when driving over rocks or slippery terrain and minimizes wheelspin and wheel lock up.

Optional features include a plethora of exterior goodies (bed hooks, cargo netting, step sides, blackout logos, etc.) as well as Fox racing shocks over the stock Bilstein’s. A TRD Performance Air Intake System is also optional for that extra oomph. 

 

Sticker Price (MSRP): 

4×4 Double cab 6A: $40,350

4X4 Access cab 6M: $43,050

4X4 Access cab 6A: $44,500

4X4 Double cab 6M SB:   $46,340

4X4 Double cab 6A SB:  $47,440

4X4 Double cab 6A SB LTD Nightshade:   $53,390

4×4 Double cab TRD Pro A:  $59,800

4X4 Double cab TRD Pro M:  $55,730

ENGINE TYPEDOHC 24-valve Atkinson-cycle V-6, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 211 cu in, 3456 cc
Power: 278 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 265 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 3.23m
Length: 5.39m
Width: 1.91m
Height: 1.82m
Passenger volume: 100 cu ft
Curb weight: 4661 lb
FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 13/10 L/100km
Automotive Reviews Truck
toyota-2022-sienna-hybrid-limited-fwd-seven-pass-blueprint-l

2022 Toyota Sienna

I know what your thinking! A Minivan. Did they not die out due to climate change?

Well, this new model by Toyota has been updated dramatically. It almost looks like a SUV.

Sleek body lines, extended sheet metal, stylish LED tail lights and headlights make this vehicle stand out, in fact the design was inspired by the Japanese Shinkansen Bullet Train. With the addition of an available cargo basket and rear tire rack you’re ready to tackle Overlanding. The Hybrid-Electric motor provides ample power and the exceptional fuel economy and leaves money in your pocket. I drove this vehicle for a week and I was impressed on the drive and comfort that this van provides. Easy loading electric side doors that can be opened with the key remote or the new kick sensor on the sides and rear offers fast accessibility. A variety of wheel options on select models available. 17” on LE and XLE models, 18” on XSE AWD and Limited AWD, and 20” on XSE FWD model. The latest Technology is abundant in this vehicle. Model specific sound system from 6 speaker all the way up to 12 speakers with premium audio with remote. 9” touch screen, SiriusXM Satellite radio, Apply CarPlay, Android Auto TM and navigation.

Available rear entertainment system that has a 11.6” display and features 1080p quality. Heated front seats with 8-way power adjustable drivers’ seat and 4-way power adjustable passenger seat with 2nd and 3rd row foldable 60/40 seats. The third row can be folded down into the floor to provide 75.2 cubic feet of storage to cram everything you may or not use on a weekend excursion. Oh, and in case you are wondering about cup holders, this van has a total of 18!

Pricing

Starting at: $41,050 (XSE: $48,590)

Models

LE Front wheel drive, 8 Passenger. LE All-wheel drive, 8 Passenger. XLE Front wheel drive, 8 Passenger.

XSE All wheel drive, 7 Passenger. XSE All wheel drive, 7 Passenger. Limited All wheel drive 7 Passenger

Warranty 

Basic

36 months or 60,000 km

Road side assistance 

36 months or Unlimited km

Fuel Economy

6.6 L/100KM City- 6.5 L/100KM Hwy

Automotive Reviews Van
2020 Toyota Supra - Cover

2020 Toyota Supra – Video Review

2020 Toyota Supra - Cover

2020 Toyota Supra – Video Review

Introducing the all-new BMW Supra... Wait, I meant to say Toyota! Check out our video review below!

Since the end of the fourth-generation Supra in 2002, fans have been begging for a return of the Supra. While in between, we were given a severely insufficient Toyota 86 to hold our tongues; finally, the Supra has made its return. An exoskeleton of the BMW Z4, Toyota has built upon that along with a little Toyota flare to become the by-product of the next great sports car.

Underneath, the Supra shares a platform, running gear, engine, gearbox, and large chunks of the interior with the latest Z4. Not being the first example of Toyota partnering with others to collaborate on a version with a Toyota badge. (Subaru BRZ/Scion FRS/Toyota 86).

But this partnership is different because the Supra is a huge deal. It’s not a run of the mill newly introduced small coupe. The Supra badge has a history as a staple in Japanese car culture alongside the greats like the Honda NSX, Nissan Skyline, and Nissan GT-R.

While the DNA is the same, The Supra, in my opinion, is better looking than the Z4, no doubt about it. It’s well proportioned, striking, and eye-catching throughout.

Under the hood sits BMW’s B58 single turbo 3.0-liter straight six, developing identical power figures (335bhp and 369lb ft of torque) to the Z4 M40i. This is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. 0-100km takes 4.3 seconds. The body is more rigid than the Lexus LFA’s, weight distribution is 50:50. Leaving aside the BMW controversy, you’ve got to admit it looks good on paper.

It’s excellent to drive. The Supra is crisp, responsive, well connected, confidence-inspiring, and quick. The fact that Toyota has been able to take the same mechanicals as BMW and shape them into a proper sports car that’s perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Supra. But it is not all entirely successful, so let’s start there. The paddle downshifts can be a fraction delayed and upshifts can surge on you.

Similarly, the engine has plenty of mid-range shove, but at higher RPM’s there’s not much point. The brakes do fade, but it does have bigger brakes, using 13.7-inch vented discs in front and 13.6-inch vented discs in the rear, 1.0 inch and 0.8 inches larger than the old car (which also had vented discs). But it’s the good stuff that dominates the experience. The front wheels unfailingly go where you aim them, and the rear axle is communicative and well supported. What this means is that the Supra moves into corners well, and it gets out of them well, too. The steering set-up – especially in Sport (that or Normal are your only choices) – is lovely, well-weighted, and responsive. It’s too light in Normal. Turning is decisive, and it feels agile, thanks to its short 2,470mm wheelbase.

Here is the thing; we can forgive the non-Toyota engine, but it’s hard to forgive the lack of innovation in the cabin. The Supra is a BMW inside. Of course, this means it’s got the material quality and tactility it wouldn’t have had otherwise, and some people will see that as a plus. And once again, if you aren’t familiar with BMW, it’s not going to offend you. But here’s Toyota, the world’s largest car company, having slapped a body on top of a BMW, It’s just an odd thing to do with a brand with such history for Toyota.

The rev counter is Toyota’s own, but the steering wheel definitely isn’t. The same goes for the heating controls, graphics, USB slots, switchgear, door handles, etc. Ignoring the BMW influences then: the driving position is excellent. You sit low, the standard seats wrap around your back as bucket seats do, however over the shoulder visibility is horrible. Two seats and two people have adequate space inside. The infotainment is intuitive as BMW’s go. No complaints as the rotary are easy to manage and operate.

After all is said and done, it’s like BMW built a better Toyota. It’s impossible to separate the new Supra from its underpinnings – not least because they are always staring you in the face when you get in. But in the end, Toyota has built a very talented driver’s car. It’s a very complete coupe. Big enough inside, well equipped, handsome, rapid, and good-natured. It’s grown-up yet compact, agile, and smooth. It’s a smart piece of engineering. A car you’d enjoy driving anywhere, a car that probably strikes the best compromise of GT and sportiness of any car in its class. 

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews Car Video
2020 Toyota Corolla - Cover

2020 Toyota Corolla – Automotive Review

2020 Toyota Corolla - Cover

2020 Toyota Corolla – Automotive Review

Regarded as the best selling car of all time, the 2020 Toyota Corolla gets its most dramatic transformation in recent years.

The Toyota Corolla has always been an easy choice for compact vehicles. It’s the highest selling vehicle of all-time. The reliability, affordability, and efficiency easily have people knowing what they are investing in when purchasing a Corolla. This new 2020 segment has left nothing to suggest that will ever change; even after undergoing the most dramatic transformation in recent memory.

The transformation began with a bit of cosmetic work to the shape and under belly of the new Corolla. New underpinnings to the body as part of Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA) helps deliver that smooth drivability. Notably the new 2020 Corolla will offer a new engine option and Hybrid-engine capability. This giving users the optimum fuel efficiency whilst reducing carbon emissions. Ever evolving the Corolla will always deliver to get you from place to place, efficiently and reliably.

The exterior as I mentioned got the sharp feature treatment as opposed to last year. The outside features provide a competitive design finally that seemed to be lacking within the Corollas of years past. Boasted as longer, lower, and wider; the Corolla measures out to be 182.3 inches which is in fact .7 inches shorter then it’s predecessor. The width is increased by .2 inches to 70.1, and lower stance by more than an inch and a half. The Nightshade Edition has that marvel villain name to go along with its dark side. Flairs of black features include 18” black alloy wheels, mirror caps, door handles, front and rear spoilers, skirt, and badging. Complete with availability as a sedan or hatchback to fit your need, the Corolla has more glamour than ever before.

The interior remains rather unchanged from the previous year. Inside, the Corolla hatchback and sedan share a streamlined dashboard and soft-touch materials. Every model has passive entry and push-button start, but certain Corollas can be upgraded with ambient interior lighting, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. Those who regularly have back-seat passengers should consider the sedan over the hatchback since it has considerably more legroom behind the front seats.

Every Corolla has a touchscreen infotainment system with a mobile hotspot, Apple CarPlay capability however Android Auto is shockingly absent. The rather large 7-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard, but its numerous buttons, rotary volume, and tuning knobs help keep the driver’s eyes on the road during use. Top options include wireless charging and an upgraded JBL audio system.

 

Prices starting at

  • L sedan: $18 990
  • LE sedan: $21 790
  • SE: $22 290
  • Hybrid: $24 790
  • XLE sedan: $26 990
  • XSE sedan/hatchback: $28 490

 

With a plethora of selection, each model has noteworthy safety features and options to suit your needs best. Leaving the choice for the best suited Corolla totally up to your own presences. While the hatchback has tighter rear capacity and less cargo space; the hatchback look feels sportier and drives as such. The luxury XSE has all the glitz and glamor but, with the extra cost. The phenomenal fuel efficiency of the Hybrid LE sedan is tough to ignore as well.

Besides the sportier options like the SE and XSE, the 2020 Corolla is equipped with a 139-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Front wheel drive power is delivered through the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) which provides smooth operation. However, with any sudden pressure to the gas pedal you will find the Corolla bellowing a loud hum throughout the cabin. The for-mentioned sport options boast a 169-horsepower 2-liter four-cylinder to pair with the CVT or optional six-speed manual. While the hatchbacks do have the larger engine, the hybrid powertrain is strictly limited to the sedan. Which ever your mood and style, Toyota has it covered with its multiple models, personally my eyes are drawn to the hatchback XSE.

Fuel efficiency in the 2020 Toyota Corolla is varied throughout the engine selections. The Hybrid will net you a combined 4.5L/100km. The L and LE model will give you about 7.1L/100km, XLE sitting around 7.3L/100km, SE being a little less at 6.7L/100km, and the XSE possessing 7L/100km.

Safety features included in the Toyota Corolla continues to be its namesake. For years the Corolla has been synonymous for reliability and safety. The 2020 Corolla sedan has earned a five-star crash-test rating. Driver-assistance features include pre-collision pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beams, and traffic sign recognition.

The all-new 2020 ToyotaCorolla attempts to enhance its reputation with flashier styling inside and out, more desirable features, and an improved driving experience. While it’s left to the eyes of the beholder; Toyota – more specifically the Corolla will continue to always see success amongst those who simply want a safe, well equipped and competitively priced car; one with a name synonymous with reliability.

 

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews Compact
2019_Toyota_RAV4_Trail-Cover

2019 Toyota RAV4 – Automotive Review

2019_Toyota_RAV4_Trail-Cover

2019 Toyota RAV4 – Automotive Review

The 2019 Toyota Rav4 Trail AWD is ready to hit the dirt.

Looks:

The 2019 Toyota Rav4 is here in a fifth-generation model, with a bold new design, one that many people are happy to see. The Toyota RAV4 has been one of those vehicles that people see on the roads every day and it started to blend into the background. Over the past few years, the Canadian built Rav4 has kept the competition at bay and has been the best-selling vehicle in its class. This Rav4 is quite exciting, sleek body lines, lower, a little wider and longer making this more aerodynamic. Swept-back headlights and a more aggressive front end are just some of the changes made. The rear lift-gate features a one-touch operation that has selectable memory height settings, perfect for my family where my wife had it set so low I could barely get my arm in and I had it set so she would need a step ladder to close it.

The Trail edition takes the Rav4 a little further into the backcountry so the average outdoor enthusiast can enjoy what others have and still have a comfortable vehicle on the road.                                       

In The Cab:

Ample use of soft-touch materials used throughout the interior. Comfortable front seats and rear seats that take in to consideration the comfort of your passengers. 60/40 split fold-down with reclining seatbacks that are just as comfortable as the front seats and lots of legroom too. The driver’s seat is a six-way power-adjustable, and the cargo area has a capacity of 1.09m and 2.08m with the rear seats folded down.

Safety first:

Many safety items are standard in this Rav4. Dual-stage driver and passenger airbags, driver knee airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, roll-sensing front, and rear head/ side curtain airbags. Star safety system includes vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. There are also lane departure alert, blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert available as an option, which I think should be standard on all new models.

Roadworthy:

I am impressed with how comfortable the interior is. You can hold a conversation with your children in the back without having to yell over the road noise. I found the 4 cylinder engine to be smooth and responsive although when the Rav4 is called upon to pass or travel up a hill under load, the engine does make a whiney roar and is very noticeable in the cabin.

Verdict:

Improving upon a vehicle that has a proven track record, while keeping up with the latest technologies, one reason Toyota continues to be so popular today.

Power:

A 2.5 Litre, 4 cylinder gas engine with 203 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque mated to an 8 speed automatic electronically controlled transmission with sequential shift mode.

Pump frequency:

9.2/7.1 L/100 km (city/highway) 

Warranty support:

Basic 36 months/ 60,000 km

Powertrain 60 months/ 100,000 km

Corrosion peroration Unlimited km

Sticker price:

Trail Edition $38,960 CAD

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews SUV

2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Automotive Review

2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – Automotive Review

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is ready to excite.

Looks:

The 2018 Toyota RAV4 is here, a bold design and one that many people are happy to see. The Toyota RAV4 is  one of those vehicles that people see on the roads every day, and it just starts to blend into the background. Over the past two years the RAV4 has kept the competition at bay with it’s updated version. This RAV4 is quite exciting, sleek body lines, lower and a little wider making this more aerodynamic. Swept back headlights and a more aggressive front end are just some of the changes made a few years ago. The rear lift-gate features a one touch operation that has selectable memory height settings, perfect for my family were my wife had it set so low I could barely get my arm in and I had it set so she would need a step ladder to close it.

There are five models to choose from FWD LE, FWD XLE, AWD LE, and AWD Limited, giving a little something for everybody.

In The Cab:

Ample use of soft touch materials can be found throughout the interior. Comfortable front seats and rear seats that take  into consideration the comfort of your passengers. 60/40 split fold down with reclining seat backs that are just as comfortable as the front seats and lots of leg room too. The driver’s seat on the LE models features a 6-way manual adjustment while the Limited model receives an 8 way power adjustable. The cargo area has a capacity of 1.09m and 2.08m with the rear seats folded down.

Safety first:

Many safety items are standard in this RAV4. Dual stage driver and passenger airbags, driver knee airbags, front seat mounted side airbags, roll sensing front and rear head/ side curtain airbag. Star safety system which includes vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, and smart stop technology. There are also lane departure alert, blind spot monitor, and rear cross traffic alert available as an option, which I think should be standard on all new models.

Roadworthy:

I am really impressed with how quiet and comfortable the interior is. You can hold a conversation with your children in the back without have to yell over the road noise. I found the 4-cylinder engine to be smooth and responsive.

Verdict:

Improving upon a vehicle that has a proven track record, while keeping up with the latest technologies one reason Toyota continues to be so popular today.

Power:

A 2.5 Litre, Hybrid Synergy drive (HSD), 2.5 Litre, 4 cylinder gas engine with 176 horsepower and 172 lb ft of torque mated to a 6 speed automatic electronically controlled transmission with sequential shift mode.

Pump Frequency:

  • 8.7/6.4 L/100 km (city/highway)  FWD LE, XLE
  • 9.1/6.8 L/100 km (city/highway)  AWD LE, XLE
  • 9.3/6.8 L/100 km (city/highway)  AWD Limited
  • 6.9/7.8 L/100 km (city/highway)  Hybrid

Warranty Support:

  • Basic 36 months/ 60,000 km
  • Powertrain 60 months/ 100,000 km
  • Hybrid batteries are covered for 8 years/160,000 km
  • Hybrid-related components/ 160,000 km
  • Corrosion peroration Unlimited km

Sticker Price:

  • Hybrid Limited
    • $42,145 as tested
Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews
2018 Toyota Sequoia Exterior

2018 Toyota Sequoia – Review

2018 Toyota Sequoia Exterior

2018 Toyota Sequoia – Review

The 2018 Toyota Sequoia, updated a little, and when I say a little, I mean not much at all.

This truck was introduced in 2008 and here we are in 2018 with little more than a few tech improvements and updated headlights. The laws of space and time seem to cease to exist on this platform. It is if you went into a black hole and came out 10 years later and nothing had changed. Then on top of all that as I am typing this, Toyota just announced a recall on 65,000 2018 Sequoias, so much for the updates.

Looks:

Oversized front and rear bumpers, large grille, LED headlights and running boards are some of the standouts to this large and in charge vehicle.

In The Cab:

The interior is designed to be comfortable and functional no matter what size the occupant. The driver’s seat is equipped with power lumbar support, and available as an option on the front passenger seat. The second row seats are split 40/20/40, and captain’s seats are optional. The Platinum comes with front and rear heated seats. The third row seat is split 60/40 and is reclineable. Optional power folding rear seats are also available and are very convenient when loading items. The switch is located in the rear and can be easily reached without any bending. There are many interior features and were very well thought out. Power rear lift gate with remote access, power fold side mirrors, auto dim rear view mirror, and power back door window with jam protection are just some of the highlights.

Safety first:

The Sequoia is equipped with Vehicle stability control, Active traction control, Anti-lock braking system, Electronic brake force distribution, and Brake assist. For added safety, Toyota created the braking system known as Smart Stop technology. This system cuts power to the engine allows brakes to take precedence over the accelerator when both pedals are pressed at the same time. I experienced this myself when my wife was driving and she heard about a shoe sale over the radio!

The collision safety features include side seat mounted side airbags, and roll sensing side curtain airbags that extend from the front seat to the third row seat.

New for 2018 is lane departure warning system, pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, auto high beams, rear cross traffic alert, and blind spot monitor.

Power:

Under the hood there is a 5.7L V8 engine with 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque, which is standard on all models. The transmission is a smooth shifting electronically controlled six speed automatic that utilizes hydraulic pressures that help ensure low noise levels.

Pump frequency:

18.4/13.8 L/100 km (city/highway)

Warranty support:

  • Basic 60,000 km
  • Powertrain 100,000 km
  • Corrosion perforation Unlimited km

Roadworthy:

This truck is incredibly smooth on the road, despite its massive size and weight.

Larger tires and wheels are required when manoeuvring a vehicle of this size. Standard 275/65R18 tires with 18-inch wheels complement the SR5 and Limited models with 275/55R20 tires and specially designed 20 inch aluminum wheels grace the Platinum

Verdict:

Can’t wait for the 2020 version. Hopefully the engineers have 20/20 vision.

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews
2017 Toyota 86 Exterior

2017 Toyota 86 – Review

2017 Toyota 86 Exterior

2017 Toyota 86 – Review

The rebranded “86” is a refreshing addition to extremely limited Toyota RWD lineup. Born from the ashes of the now dead Scion brand, the 86 is the reincarnate of the FRS.

Starting as the groupthink project by Subaru and Scion, this small, affordable sports car makes a welcomed appearance in the Toyota brand. Being their only current two doors, rear wheel drive car, this addition is a clear nod to the past and the much loved Toyota Celica/Supra.

There wasn’t much that changed during the rebadge except for really the badge itself. You’ll see a few minor tweaks in places like the bumpers and lights. Toyota also did some tuning and re-gearing which is all that differentiates this from the nearly identical Subaru BRZ

The 86 is a sleek car with all the lines and shapes expected in a true sports car. It is a true back to the basics sports car. It’s a lightweight, rear wheel drive coupe, with Toyota focusing on the handling and driving experience. While it does give some much-needed choice to the entry-level sports car line, the “sports” is mostly external. The unique 2.0l flat 4 Boxer engine helps deliver a lower profile and center of gravity, making for a sportier feeling ride.

However, to get the price tag to start at only $29,580, the Toyota scrapped everything that doesn’t fit the sports car image. Unfortunately, that might have meant giving up some raw off the line power. The Toyota 86 powerhouse pushes out a very unsatisfactory 200hp with 156ft. Lbs of torque. This pushes the almost 1300kg car from 0-60 in 6.2 seconds. When compared to similarly priced but much more powerful Nissan 370z, a 332hp v6 that goes 0-60 in over a second faster, the Toyota 86 looks like less of a sports car and more of a daily driver. Except that even the 1.5L Honda Civic Si, puts out the same HP, but with much better fuel economy.

The interior is also quite minimalist. While I expect there only to be two seats in a coupe (who uses the backseat in a two-door??) the cockpit of this vehicle is severely lacking. Toyota drives home the back to basics look with a dash that would look more at home in a higher end car from 20 years ago. Many of the tech goodies found standard in cars that are half the price are missing in this vehicle. While if you’ve never had some of those features, I’m sure your driving experience wouldn’t suffer, drivers who have had the pleasure of using them may be turned off this vehicle just for that reason.

In conclusion, the Toyota 86 is a welcomed addition to the lineup. It marks the re-entry of the Toyota brand into the RWD sports car market. At the under 30k starting point this is a perfect vehicle for a young adult to get their hands on a brand new driving machine. Toyota has ensured that the focus of this car is on the driving experience, especially if you enjoy drifting more so than speed. To keep the price on the lower end, the Toyota 86 cuts out all the frills and leaves you with a fun to drive RWD coupe good for the daily grind yet still suitable for the occasional rip around some winding backroads, or the hugging some curves on the track.

Key Features:

  • Starting at $29,580
  • 2.0L flat 4 Boxer engine
  • 205hp @ 7000rpm
  • 156 ft. lbs. torque @ 6400rpm
  • 0-60mph in 6.2 seconds
  • 1252kg base curb weight
  • Seating for 4
Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews
2017 Toyota 4Runner Exterior

2017 Toyota 4Runner – Review

2017 Toyota 4Runner Exterior

2017 Toyota 4Runner – Review

Rugged, sporty, and bold are some of the words that come to mind when describing the 2017 Toyota 4runner.

Looks:

Toyota has a history in this province with a strong following making it an icon for the past thirty years. The large grille opening and molded headlights look like a big mouth bass coming up out of the water and biting down on your lure, how’s that for adventure? And the good thing is there is no limit on how many you can take.

In The Cab:

The 4Runner has two rows of seats, with an optional 3rd row, available on the upgrade and premium packages.

There’s an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, four-way adjustable passenger seat, 40/20/40 split second-row seats, and 40/20/40 split third-row seats which include an optional one-touch walk-in feature to ease access to the back. All the knobs and dials have a rubber texture to emphasize the outdoor theme. The standard model comes with an eight-speaker, 160 watts AM/FM/CD system with an XM satellite-ready antenna. While the premium version receives a JBL AM/FM/CD/4 disc in dash changer that puts out 660 watts of power and includes; a sub-woofer, 15 speakers, iPod connectivity, steering wheel audio controls and Entune multimedia bundle. Entune includes destination search, iHeart radio, movie tickets.com, open table, Pandora, and Facebook. Great, now we’re going to hear  “ honestly officer, I was just posting a picture of you walking towards my truck on Facebook.” There is a12-volt DC power outlet located in the center console, glove box, and cargo area. The Trail edition and limited models feature a 400 watt AC power outlet. An available sliding rear cargo tray holds up to 200 kg and comes in very handy when camping.

Safety First:

Dual stage driver and passenger airbag, front seat-mounted side airbags, roll-sensing front and rear head/side curtain, driver and front passenger knee airbags and active front headrests with whiplash protection. Front and rear parking assist sonar.

Power:

Powering the 4Runner is a 4.0-litre V6 dual variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i ) V6 engine that produces an impressive 270 hp and 278 lb-ft of torque.

Pump Frequency:

  • 12.6L/100km city
  • 9.2L/100km highway

Warranty Support:

  • Basic 36 months/ 60,000 km
  • Powertrain 36 months/ 100,000 km
  • Corrosion perforation/ unlimited km
  • Roadside assistance 36 months / 60,000 km

Roadworthy:

Whenever I have a chance to test drive a Toyota 4Runner, I always talk about its legendary off-road capabilities, especially here in BC. What I don’t always talk about is the great on-road driving capabilities. The Toyota 4Runner hugs the road, and the bucket seats hug you. It is very comfortable to drive, and you feel safe driving it. The suspension and shocks give you a firm ride but not enough to give you that washboard effect. Vision while driving is superb, with little to no blind spots. The thick steering wheel and responsive steering make you feel like you’re driving a car. Now, all we need is a Hybrid model.

Verdict:

The Toyota 4Runner is on just about everybody’s wish list. Time to put on the red sports coat and jump!

Sticker Price:

  • SR5  $34,210
  • SR5 Premium  $36,040
  • TRD Off-road  $37,335
  • TRD Off-road Premium $ 39,295
Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on print
Share on email
Automotive Reviews