TNGA Archives - Heels & Horsepower Magazine

Meet the ever popular Toyota RAV4 – in Hybrid version

vuyi on September 14, 2021

Toyota South Africa has a plan to roll out Hybrid variants on most of its mainstream model ranges including the popular RAV4

With a global change in customer behaviour, Toyota are excited to introduce Hybrid variants of two of Mzansi’s most popular passenger cars – Corolla and RAV4. Both Corolla and RAV4 Hybrid are a first for South Africa and combine all the virtues of their conventional namesakes with the added performance and fuel efficiency of Toyota’s proven Hybrid system.

Based on Toyota’s angular 5th-generation sport utility, the RAV4 Hybrid combines a punchy 2.5-litre Hybrid powertrain with the popular TNGA-based 5-seater SUV. The A25A-FXS engine is shared with other global Toyota and Lexus stablemates, such as the Lexus ES and NX300h and the acclaimed Camry Hybrid.

It boasts many of the same technologies shared by the Corolla Hybrid, in a larger displacement four-cylinder offering. Featuring an ‘undersquare’ design with Toyota D-4S port and direct-injection, the Atkinson cycle engine generates 131 kW and 221 Nm in ‘ICE’ state.

The electric motor punches out 88kW and 202 Nm (at maximum state of charge) to deliver a total system output of 160kW.

Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a CVT transmission, which seamlessly integrates the two drive sources – and delivers an ultra-refined drive. Smooth punchy acceleration, low NVH levels and superb refinement, are some of the standout features of the RAV4 Hybrid.

The Hybrid pays dividends at the fuel pump too, as the model’s fuel consumption index is listed at mere 4.7 l/100 km with CO2 emissions registering 107 g/km. A remarkable consumption figure for a 5-seater SUV.

One Grade, One Spec

The RAV4 Hybrid is offered in tweaked GX trim – which strikes a balance between core convenience spec, value for money and luxury convenience.

The RAV4 Hybrid boasts LED head and taillamps complete with DRL’s up front, rain-sensing wipers, heated and power-operated side mirrors and keyless entry. Occupants are well catered for with dual-zone climate control, three 12-volt power outlets and multiple cupholders. Driver convenience is boosted by the fitment of Cruise Control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, multi-information display and a tilt & telescopic steering wheel finished in leather and incorporating steering switches.

The infotainment system centres around Toyota’s touchscreen interface, delivering sound output through six speakers while interfacing via 3 x USB inputs, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto mediums.

Driver support systems include Park Distance Control (PDC), ABS, EBD, VSC, Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Drive Mode Select (Eco/Normal/Power). A full complement of airbags is present, including side and curtain variants, as well as an anti-theft system.

The RAV4 Hybrid rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with 225-65-R17 rubber joined by a full-size spare wheel. Roof rails, a rear spoiler, blue Toyota insignia, Hybrid badging and mud guards also form part of the standard repertoire.

Colours & Trims

A total of eight exterior hues are available; Glacier White, Pearl White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey, Caribbean Blue, Cinnabar Red, Urban Khaki and Moonlight Ocean metallic. The Interior is finished off in a textured-black textile trim.

Model Line-up & Pricing

RAV4 GX Hybrid CVT – R 555 300

The pricing has been set at a very competitive level in anticipation of future government support on New Energy Vehicles (NEV). Toyota South Africa Motors’ strategy is to make Hybrid models attainable and offer customers an attractive product package – leveraging the benefits of Hybrid technology – without paying significant premiums in order to experience it.

Peace of Mind

A six-services or 90 000 km service plan is standard with service Intervals pegged at 15 000 km / 12- months. Toyota’s standard 3-year/100 000 km warranty is included and customers have the additional peace of mind of an 8-year / 195 000 km Hybrid battery warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

Much-Anticipated Toyota Land Cruiser 300 coming soon

vuyi on August 2, 2021

The eagerly awaited Land Cruiser 300 is set for an August debut on local soil.

Following months of speculation, concept renderings and spy-shots, the first production models are ready to be shipped to eager buyers.

On the design front, the ‘300’ features a dramatically different profile to its ‘200’ predecessor. The front façade features a large and prominent radiator grille with sculpted rectangular headlamps on each side, that blend seamlessly into the grille.

U-shaped radiator openings underpin a strong design while the bonnet features the signature Land Cruiser ‘channel’ down the centre. The rear features large trapezoidal taillamps with stylised light guides which are complemented by large Land Cruiser lettering and the Toyota Insignia.

New Platform

The Land Cruiser 300 serves as the flagship to the Toyota SUV-range, and carries an enviable reputation as the ‘Master of Africa’. The ‘300’ model is a ‘ground-up’ design, featuring an all-new TNGA (Toyota New Global Architecture) platform designated as TNGA-F. The F indicates the first ladder-frame execution of TNGA – a fact that should find favour with off-road enthusiasts.

New Engines

An all-new engine line-up propels the newcomer; buyers have the choice of a 3.5-litre V6 Twin Turbo petrol engine or 3.3-litre V6 Turbodiesel. Both powerplants focus on delivering increased efficiency, improved torque output and elevated levels of refinement versus the outgoing V8-variants.

The petrol V6 offers 305 kW @ 5200 rpm with a stout 650 Nm available from 2000 rpm, while the new diesel delivers 225 kW @ 4000 rpm with a ‘stump-pulling’ 700 Nm available between 1600 and 2600 rpm. Top speed is pegged at 210 km/h for both variants. The new engines are mated to a new slick-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission with low-range functionality.

Fuel consumption figures are listed as 12.1 l/100 km for the Petrol and 8.9 l/100 km for the diesel – with CO2 emissions checking in at 291 and 238 respectively.

New Grades

The Land Cruiser 300 also introduces a new grade line-up, namely GX-R, ZX and GR-S. GX-R remains the utility-focussed model and serves as the entry point to the range, while the ZX replaces the VX-R as the luxury model.

For the first time on Land Cruiser, a GR Sport (aka GR-S) grade will be offered which serves as the off-road performance model. As such the GR-S features bespoke exterior styling and trim, rugged 18″ alloy wheels, while adopting an off-road-biased specification list – without skimping on any comfort or convenience. This model joins the other Gazoo Racing (GR) products, and expands the GR brand into Land Cruiser territory for the first time.

The ZX model in turn takes on a more ‘image-focused’ persona, with unique 20″ alloy wheels, chrome detailing and luxury-oriented interior trim. The Land Cruiser 300 range thus offers three distinct character profiles to choose from – Utility, Luxury and Sporty.

Specification Highlights

All models boast a comprehensive specification level including LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, keyless entry with auto-door-lock, park distance control, an electric parking brake, climate control with rear zone, power driver-seat adjustment, Multi-Information Display (MID), built-in Navigation (with Tracks 4 Africa support on GX-R), multiple power outlets with charging port, Crawl Control and Drive Mode Select.

The ZX and GR-S additionally feature power fold-down third-row seating, a power-operated back door with hands-free function, heated steering wheel with wood accents, JBL 14-speaker audio system with DVD playback and 12.3″ screen, Multi-Terrain Monitor with Panoramic View, seat heating & ventilation for first- and second-row passengers, a wireless charger and tyre pressure monitoring. All models have Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality.

The ZX model adds a Wi-Fi enabled rear-seat entertainment system with wireless headphones, while the GR-S model features a high-tech E-KDSS* system to maximise off-road capability. Both variants also feature additional drive mode select modesand a Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system for superior vehicle control.

*E-KDSS is an evolution of the acclaimed Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which links the wheels via hydraulically-supported stabiliser bars – providing excellent wheel articulation and body-roll control.

Toyota Safety Sense is fitted to both the ZX and GR-S grades and offers a full suite of active safety aids with autonomous driving technologies such as Lane Trace Assist and all-speed radar cruise control. The usual supporting functions such as Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Lane Departure Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) with braking, and Adaptive High Beam are also included.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Active Traction Control (ATRC) and Hill Assist Control (HAC), join Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and the obligatory ABS, EBD and Brake Assist (BA) driver support systems.

Colours & Trims

The GX-R is available with two textile interior trims, Black or Neutral Beige.

The ZX model offers buyers a choice of three interior colour schemes with Black, a Black & Dark Red combination or Neutral Beige being the options.

The GR-S features GR-specific interior trim with a choice of either Black or a Black & Dark Red combo.

Exterior hues are as follows;

Colour	GX-R	ZX	GR-S
Glacier White	X	X	X
Pearl White Metallic	X	X	X
Satin Silver Metallic	X	X
Graphite Grey Metallic	X	X	X
Raven Black	X	X	X
Attitude Black	X	X	X
Ruby Metallic	X	X	X
Avant-Garde Bronze	X	X
Moonlight Ocean	X	X
Classic White		X	X

Model Line-up

Land Cruiser 300 GX-R 3.3D – R 1 283 200

Land Cruiser 300 ZX 3.3D – R 1 765 500

Land Cruiser 300 ZX 3.5T – R 1 797 100

Land Cruiser 300 GR-S 3.3D – R 1 811 900

Land Cruiser 300 GR-S 3.5T – R 1 842 900

* Petrol ZX models will go on sale early August with the diesel and GR-S derivatives following shortly thereafter.

Peace of Mind

All LC300 models are sold with a 9-services / 90 000 km service plan with service intervals set at 12-months or 10 000 km (whichever occurs first). A 3-year/100 000 km Warranty is included across the board. Customers can also purchase service, maintenance plan and warranty extensions from their nearest Toyota dealer.

99 days till the locally produced Toyota Corolla Cross debuts in South Africa

vuyi on July 30, 2021

In just 99 days, one of SA’s most beloved nameplates will spawn an all-new model – the much-anticipated locally-built Toyota Corolla Cross.

The Corolla name has a rich and diverse history spanning 12 generations, and while locally it has been limited to sedan, five-door hatchback and station wagon variants, globally it has been offered in a multitude of guises and configurations.

With the introduction of the Corolla Cross – the world’s favourite car enters new territory and signifies the first-ever Corolla SUV/Crossover. This newest iteration of Corolla will proudly share showroom space with its Quest, Hatch and latest-generation Sedan siblings.

Corolla Cross Concept

The Corolla has continued to evolve in line with the needs of the times and of the regions it is sold in. By adding a new model to the Corolla series to suit the growing demand of SUVs, the enhanced Corolla lineup enables customers to select the model that better suits their diverse lifestyles and life stages.

With “Corolla Meets SUV” being the key phrase for the development of the Corolla Cross, the model was designed as a new type of SUV that combines all the key Corolla credentials with utility – in a manner that exceeds customer expectations.

The TNGA platform (GA-C) has enabled the Corolla Cross to achieve high-quality performance, a comfortable ride, and outstanding quietness. In addition to its exceptional comfort, the Corolla Cross provides a spacious cabin, easy entry into and exit from the car, class-leading luggage space suitable for all scenarios, and safety equipment inherited from the Corolla series. In this way, the new model realises comfort, utility, and peace of mind for customers.

The Corolla Cross will slot in above the C-HR and below the RAV4 models, both in terms of size and powertrain configuration.

TOYOTA REVEALS THE NEW PASSENGER MODEL TO BE BUILT IN DURBAN

vuyi on February 2, 2021

This car, the all-new Corolla Cross, is tangible proof of our commitment to the local motor industry, as well as the South African economy.

– Andrew Kirby, TSAM President and CEO.

Toyota South Africa Motors (TSAM) has announced that it will be manufacturing and selling the brand-new Corolla Cross in South Africa in the fourth quarter of the year. The model reveal, made by TSAM President and CEO Andrew Kirby, follows the company’s announcement in 2019 that it was investing R2.43 billion in the production of a new passenger vehicle in South Africa.

Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress
Image courtesy of MotorPress

“We will be manufacturing this very model [Corolla Cross] in both right- and left-hand drive for South Africa and the rest of Africa right here at Prospecton. The Corolla Cross is based on the acclaimed Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform and will be built on our passenger car production line alongside the Corolla Quest,” says Andrew Kirby, TSAM President and CEO.

It is the very first time that we will be manufacturing a Hybrid model which I believe will fast become a very popular choice.

– Nigel Ward, TSAM’s Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Manufacturing Support Group

The local production of the Corolla Cross also ushers in a couple of “firsts” for TSAM’s manufacturing team at the Prospecton Plant.

“This is a significant milestone for Toyota South Africa. It’s not often that we get to produce a brand-new body shape in our factory; plus, it is the very first time that we will be manufacturing a Hybrid model which I believe will fast become a very popular choice. And it’s the first time for us to manufacture using the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) – which allows us to keep up with global technology and trends,” says Nigel Ward, TSAM’s Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Manufacturing Support Group.

WATCH: Andrew Kirby introduces the proudly and locally manufactured Toyota Corolla Cross

The Corolla Cross will be exported to 43 countries in Africa and is expected to push Toyota export volumes to about 15-20% per annum. Toyota is projecting growth of 7% per annum in the SUV market in Africa – offering significant growth opportunities to expand production of this new model.

This is an ideal vehicle for our market as it provides an exceptional balance between drivability, roominess, comfort and high-tech features

– ANDREW KIRBY, TSAM PRESIDENT AND CEO

While the Corolla Cross shares the same TNGA C platform with its namesake Corolla, it boasts a higher ground clearance and other attributes normally associated with an SUV.

According to Kirby: “This is an ideal vehicle for our market. It provides an exceptional balance between drivability, roominess, comfort and high-tech features – truly a game-changing SUV. It combines everything you love about Corolla with the utilitarian and rugged aesthetics of a segment-leading SUV. Overall, expectation is that the Corolla Cross will not only contribute significant sales towards the Toyota brand, but also accelerate growth mini-SUV segment, increase overall size of the passenger market in South Africa and give momentum to electrification technologies.”

“This car, the all-new Corolla Cross, is tangible proof of our commitment to the local motor industry, as well as the South African economy,” says Kirby.

A comprehensive specification, including pricing, of the local models will shared upon product launch in the fourth quarter of 2021.