Toyota Testing Higher-Output Powertrains for GT 86, Report Says
15:14
By
Hammad
A recent report in The Sydney Morning Herald quotes Toyota’s chief engineer overseeing the GT 86 program, Tetsuya Tada, as saying “there are several types of 86 prototypes at the Toyota proving ground now; one is a turbocharger, one is bigger displacement, and [the other is a] special hybrid system. All possibilities are being considered.” When reached for comment, Toyota told us that, “Our engineers are always working on and evaluating new powertrains, but we have no comment regarding any implications on our production vehicles.”
While a power bump is rarely frowned upon in the enthusiast world, the danger in modifying the GT 86/Scion FR-S lays in violating the low-cost proposition that the vehicle has been based on since its inception. To fit a turbocharger or a hybrid system would add a considerable premium—likely a few thousand dollars at minimum—to the car’s $25,255 base price. We understand that the FR-S could house the turbocharged version of Subaru’s 2.0-liter FA boxer engine currently serving in theForester 2.0XT Turbo, but The Herald‘s report and our sources seem to be in agreement that simply increasing displacement makes the most sense in terms of packaging and pricing.
The 2011 Toyota Sienna will comes with a choice of two responsive DOHC engines: a 3.5-liter V6 or 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. Both engines offer the latest in efficient, lightweight technology, including Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), roller rocker arms and an Acoustically Controlled Induction System (ACIS) that changes the length of the air-intake pipe to supply more torque on demand.
The 3.5-liter V6 makes 266 horsepower at 6,200 rpm, with expected EPA-estimated mileage ratings of 18 mpg city/24 mpg highway (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway on AWD models). It also has a 3,500-pound tow capacity. With 187 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces responsive power that exceeds some competitors V6 performance, while delivering expected EPA-estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Toyota Yaris 2010 features numerous exterior styling updates, a refreshed interior and an upgraded standard equipment specification. 2010 Toyota Yaris comes with a choice of three powerplants – 1.0 litre VVT-i and 1.33 litre Dual VVT-i petrol units and a 1.4 litre D-4D – is now available across the entire Toyota Yaris model range. Every engine benefits from the performance – and economy-enhancing benefits of Toyota Optimal Drive and, from July, will comply with Euro V emissions standards. As a result, all three engines generate under 120 g/km, with model range fuel consumption averaging below 5 l/100 km. Moreover, 2010 Toyota Yaris whole-fleet CO2 emissions will be reduced from 130.8 g/km in 2008, to 117.4 g/km in 2010.
On board, the Toyota Yaris 2010 standard equipment specification has been enhanced to include analogue instrument dials, a perforated leather steering wheel and gearshift knob, and a distinctive upholstery trim.
Toyota unveiled the Toyota FT-CH Concept dedicated hybrid at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The CH stands for compact hybrid as in compact class and it’s a concept that can best be defined by comparing it with the mid-size class Prius. 
Compared to Toyota Prius, it is 22 inches shorter in overall length, yet loses less than an inch in overall width. In spite of its compact external dimensions, Toyota FT-CH Concept was designed for maximum passenger comfort and interior roominess.
Toyota Sequoia is available with a choice of two V8 engines, a 4.6-liter that was introduced for the 2010 model year and the 5.7-liter unit it debuted with. Both engines run on recommended regular-grade fuel. The standard engine for the 2011 Sequoia SR5 is the new 310 horsepower 4.6-liter i-Force V8, a 32-valve DOHC unit that features aluminum alloy cylinder heads with dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). Peak torque is 327 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm.
The 4.6-liter V8 is teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, benefitting both performance and fuel economy. The Toyota Sequoia Limited and Platinum grades feature a standard iForce DOHC 5.7-liter V8, also teamed to a six-speed electronically controlled automatic. This powertrain is optional for the SR5.
Reykjavik-based Arctic Trucks, the specialist company which engineered the Hilux to cope with the extreme conditions of the Top Gear challenge, is offering trips of between two and five days and longer expeditions through the wild landscape of Iceland. Its fleet of vehicles includes two Toyota Hilux Invincible Double Cabs equipped with special features to meet the demands of tackling the country’s tundra, glaciers, lava fields and mountains, including a set of giant 38-inch tyres that allow the vehicle to traverse deep snow and thin ice.
Arctic Trucks began business as part of Toyota Iceland in 1990 and has since built up impressive experience and a worldwide reputation for modifying 4WD vehicles for use in extreme conditions. Toyota models prepared by the company have supported expeditions to both the North and South poles, outperforming more familiar arctic vehicles such as half-tracks and Snowmobiles.
