2008 Toyota Tundra – Prices And 13 New Model Variations

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Toyota has released pricing on the 2008 Tundra which features minor revisions, equipment upgrades and a choice of 44 model variations (13 more than the '07 MY) in three cab styles. The biggest change for the 08 MY is the increased availability of Double Cab and CrewMaxn the newly named "Tundra Grade” which is positioned below the SR5. According to Toyota, prices kick off from $22,290 for the Regular Cab 4x2 V6 and go up to $42,070 for the CrewMax Limited grade 4x4 5.7L V8. Just in case you’re wondering, the Tundra pictured above is equipped with the optional Sport Appearance Package that includes color-keyed front and rear bumpers, upper color-keyed grille surround and fog lamps.

Press Release

Toyota Announces 13 More Models And Pricing For 2008 Tundra Lineup 

October 2, 2007 - Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. (TMS), Inc. expanded the Tundra full-size pickup truck lineup for 2008, adding 13 new model variations and enhancing standard equipment levels to create a greater value. The 2008 Tundra now offers a choice of 44 model variations in three cab styles. Since its introduction in February 2007, Tundra's share of the half-ton full-size pickup truck segment has more than doubled, going from eight to 17 percent.

"Tundra has been an outstanding success for Toyota and its dealers, and additions to the 2008 model line are intended to maintain our momentum," said Bob Carter, Toyota Motor Sales group vice president and Toyota Division general manager. "Despite tough market conditions, Tundra retail sales were up 57.9 percent through September YTD, and we are on track to achieve our goal of 200,000 unit sales for 2007."

The biggest change for the 2008 Tundra is the increased availability of the two most popular cab styles – Double Cab and CrewMax – in the newly named "Tundra Grade," to increase their appeal to price conscious customers. Previously, these four-door models were available only in the intermediate SR5 and top-line Limited Grades. The new Tundra Grade, positioned just below the SR5, is equipped with all of the key standard features consumers expect in their truck, adding up to a great value.

Toyota is bolstering the value of the Tundra SR5 Grade Double Cab and CrewMax by increasing standard equipment. For 2008, these models include the previously optional power bucket front seats, AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD changer, cold kit, heated mirrors, and mud guards as standard, at a lower price than for a similarly equipped 2007 model.

The Tundra Limited Grade Double Cab and Crew Max models add the formerly optional front and rear parking sonar, cold kit, and mudguards to the standard equipment list, all at a lower price. Finally, the Tundra Grade regular cab model features more rugged work truck styling for 2008, with a new chrome bumper and matte-black grille surround replacing the shiny black front bumper and grille surround.

The Tundra line-up sets a new benchmark in the full-size pickup truck segment for performance, capability, and standard safety features. The 2008 Tundra is available with 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains and offers three cab styles, three wheelbases, three bed lengths, three engines, and three trim levels.

The Double Cab is the top-selling volume Tundra configuration, accounting for 68-percent of non-fleet sales. The larger CrewMax accounts for 26 percent of Tundra sales. Tundra's available 381-horsepower i-Force 5.7L V8 is one of the most powerful engines available in a half-ton full-size pickup and is chosen by 72 percent of customers.

All Tundra models feature the Toyota STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™ as standard equipment, giving Tundra one of the most comprehensive suites of standard safety technology in the full-size pickup truck category. The system includes ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The manufacturers suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2008 Tundra Regular Cab ranges from $22,290 for the Tundra grade 4x2 with V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, to $27,770 for the long-bed 4x4 with 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

Tundra Double cab MSRP ranges from $24,715 for the Tundra grade 4x2 with V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, to $38,770 for the Limited grade 4x4 with 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

Tundra CrewMax MSRP ranges from $27,685 for the Tundra grade 4x2 with V8 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, to $42,070 for the Limited grade 4x4 with 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

2008 Tundra will begin arriving in dealerships in mid-October. The addition to the Tundra lineup consists of 13 all-new "Tundra grade" models for each of the Tundra SR5 Double Cab and CrewMax models.

Toyota A-BAT: Concept Hybrid Pickup Truck

Toyota insists that the A-BAT signalizes the company’s return to its compact pickup truck roots, we think we’ll agree with our friends at Jalopnik that the new concept truck looks something like the Honda Ridgeline’s smaller bro. 

Set to make its global debut at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show this January, the A-BAT could possibly lead to a production version in the near future as Toyota supports that the concept is the next evolution of the compact truck. 


Developed by the TMS Advanced Product Strategy group and Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design center located in California, the A-BAT rides on a unibody platform and it utilizes Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive technology. 

Inside, the compact pickup truck can seat four passengers while it offers numerous seating and storage configurations.


PRESS RELEASE

TOYOTA RETURNS TO ITS COMPACT TRUCK ROOTS WITH THE A-BAT CONCEPT VEHICLE 

DETROIT - Jan. 13, 2008 - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., returns to its compact pickup truck roots with its latest concept vehicle A-BAT.

The environmentally advanced A-BAT provides modern versatility, roominess and style in a compact pickup architecture. The A-BAT made its debut in Detroit at the 2008 North American International Auto Show today.

"Driving from beyond the suburbs to the city is a way of life for many people," said Kevin Hunter, president, Calty Design Research, Inc. "We've taken Toyota's truck heritage to a different level by envisioning a vehicle capable of maneuvering the suburbs as well as dirt roads. This compact truck is as comfortable for long commutes as it is for road trips. It can accommodate outdoor toys and home improvement supplies. Plus, customers benefit from the hybrid powertrain's low emissions and fuel economy."

The A-BAT concept was developed by the TMS Advanced Product Strategy group and Calty, Toyota's North American-based, research and design center located in Newport Beach, Calif. Together, they identified a buyer group whose unique combination of lifestyle activities and vehicle needs required a vehicle that as of now is not available in the market place.

The team created a new genre of compact vehicle with good fuel economy, advanced functionality, maneuverability, unique styling within its segment, and a durable package suitable for an active lifestyle. Advanced styling was also key in making the A-BAT appropriate for today's market.

The A-BAT concept rides on a unibody platform for car-like handling when navigating city streets and crowded parking lots, and smooth ride quality for highway trips and the everyday commute. In addition, its lightweight package coupled with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive® technology is designed to deliver excellent fuel economy. 

Translucent solar panels in the top surface of the instrument panel capture sunlight and convert it into energy, showcasing the vehicle's "green" character. Positioned below the Toyota Tacoma, A-BAT integrates truck features with car fundamentals for an efficient and modern package.

The A-BAT's unique aerodynamic exterior was crafted by Calty Project Chief Designer Ian Cartabiano and Creative Designer Matt Sperling. They integrated Toyota's design philosophy, "Vibrant Clarity" into the exterior by keeping the design forward-looking, crisp and functional.

The concept's unique look is a combination of the large body surfaces, intersecting tight surface planes, crisp lines and the trapezoidal profile. The A-BAT's 19-inch wheels sit at the vehicle's corners creating a tough and ready stance.

"We studied the 'trapezoid' silhouette from the side profile of the Toyota Prius and applied it to create an entirely new truck image," said Sperling. He further enhanced the trapezoidal profile by placing the cab forward, and using fast angle A- and C-pillars, shortened overhangs, and a sleek front window.

"The bold grille showcases Toyota's reverse trapezoid and T-face theme in a new way," explained Cartabiano. "The bed is defined by the C-pillar and is clearly separated from the cab to allow it to stand out from the rest of the profile."

"The image of a NATO all-terrain military truck inspired us to keep the occupants as far forward as possible to maximize rear bed capacity in this compact package," stated Sperling.

The A-BAT features a four-foot bed, but has more flexibility than the standard pickup truck. A translucent roof panel slides open to allow for tall cargo in the cab. 

When the pass-through midgate is folded down into the cab the bed lengthens an additional two feet. An open tailgate provides an additional two-foot of bed length. The A-BAT offers customers the versatility of hauling a standard 4x8 sheet of plywood one day, then taking a family on a camping trip to the lake the next.

The bed has features perfect for work and play. These include tailgate lighting for illuminating the load in the bed, a first aid kit and flashlight integrated into the tailgate, sliding tie downs, and an AC power outlet. Items such as sports and leisure equipment can be stored in the lockable drawers in the bed walls.

The concept also has additional storage that is accessible through sliding doors conveniently placed in and outside of the truck bed. For even more storage capacity the A-BAT comes with a large sliding drawer beneath the bed, accessible without opening the tailgate.

Although the A-BAT is rugged and has a spirited exterior, the interior team worked to create a modern look for the interior.

"We balanced colors and fabrics that were both bright and vibrant, but also captured an urban-rugged feel with their energetic and geometric qualities," said Alan Schneider, Project Chief Designer.

"The inspiration behind the exposed structure on the interior was drawn from high-end mountain bike frames," added Daryl Harris, Senior Creative Designer. "We applied lightweight construction materials, such as carbon fiber and aluminum, to the instrument panel, console and seats for increased structural rigidity while reducing mass."

The rigid, yet sculptured alloy center console runs between the two front seats and houses a portable power pack. The battery pack offers both AC and DC for a wide variety of applications including powering tools, electrical gear while camping, a laptop computer, small appliances or assisting a vehicle jump start.

The door trim, shoulder, armrest and instrument panel pads and seat cushions are made of a tough, lightweight and comfortable material that can be selected for personalization. In addition the colors are coordinated to enhance the sleek interior environment. The center console and door pockets feature carbon fiber components to complete the durable and modern look.

The four-passenger A-BAT offers numerous seating and storage configurations. In addition to the rear seats folding down with the midgate to extend the cargo bed length, the rear seat cushions can retract beneath the cargo bed to increase rear cab cargo flexibility. A removable storage tray beneath the rear seat offers tie downs and organizing compartments to secure loose cargo.

Inside the A-BAT has a retractable portable navigation unit with a seven-inch diagonal screen and Wi-Fi internet. Other advanced features include a port for portable device assistant synchronization and a hard drive for digital music.

Both the driver and front passenger have a large multi-information display screens on the IP to view the status of their high tech gadgets and HVAC and audio settings.

The solar panels on the dash recapture energy from the sun to assist in the charging of the navigation unit, portable power pack and backlit information displays.

"This concept is the next evolution of the compact truck," said Hunter. 

"We were able to create a compact truck that's utilitarian, has an original profile compared to other pickup trucks, has a 'small, but tough' character and is economical to operate. The A-BAT is a fun-to-drive, practical package that reflects Toyota's environmental sustainability message."

Toyota the New 2010 Prius Hybrid with Modellista Aero Kits

The official Japanese market launch of the third-generation Prius and Toyota has already revealed a full lineup of bodykits and tuning accessories for its hybrid model that will be sold by the firm's in-house tuner, Modellista. 

Though somewhat less aggressively styled than Mugen's respective offerings for the Honda Insight, Modellista's lineup includes three different aero kits. The first is called Aero Tourer S and it consists of a new front fascia with a unique grille that brings to mind the Insight Concept, side skirts and a rear apron.


For those that want something less flashy, Modellista offers the Version 1 and Version 2 bodykits that include front and rear aprons, and side skirts.

All kits can be complemented by new alloy wheels in two different designs, a sport suspension that lowers the ride height, chromed exterior mirror caps and various accessories for the Prius III's interior.


As with most Modellista products, the Prius III kits are reserved only for Japanese customers - that is unless you find a way to import them.

Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept At LA Auto Show

Many alternative fuel applications being explored by Toyota is the use of compressed natural gas (CNG). For the Los Angeles Auto Show Toyota prepared a concept version of the Camry that combines a CNG fueled engine with the firm's Hybrid Synergy Drive system.

To convert the stock Camry Hybrid into a CNG Hybrid Toyota's engineers replaced the gasoline fuel system with a compressed natural gas system that comprises of a pair of CNG tanks installed in the spare-tire well of the sedan's trunk. To compensate for the loss of the spare tire Toyota fitted the CNG Camry Hybrid Concept with runflat tires.


The justify the vehicle's being as a concept, Toyota's designers also fitted the Camry with a 'light' bodykit that's complemented by new alloy wheels, dark tailamps, a lowered suspension for a more aggressive stance and most importantly, a new front bumper that does away with the grille making the sedan look like an offspring of the 'iQ' minicar.


According to the Japanese automaker, with the proposed CNG equivalent of 8 gallons of gasoline in its fuel tanks, the CNG Camry Hybrid concept has a range that exceeds 250 miles or 400 km.


The benefits of using CNG as a primary fuel source for internal combustion engines is that it's less expensive and it produces less pollutants and greenhouse emissions than gasoline. Also in concern of the U.S., there's a strong, reliable domestic supply of CNG. The downside is that you get fewer miles on a tank than gasoline plus in America, there are currently only about 1,000 CNG refueling stations nationwide, with less than half open to the public.


"With the combination of plentiful long-term supplies in North America, improved and more efficient recovery methods, favorable pricing and clean-burn/low emissions characteristics, CNG has become a prime energy-source for the future," said Irv Miller, group vice president, TMS Corporate Communications. "With this concept, we are confirming our interest in pursuing CNG within our broad and comprehensive R&D scope."


This isn't the first time that Toyota has been experimenting with CNG as in 1999 the Japanese firm marketed a CNG-powered four-cylinder Camry to fleet customers in California. The test did not have any success though mainly because gasoline was very cheap at the time and due to the limited refueling infrastructure. The program was discontinued a year later, in 2000.

Toyota 2000GT Replica Based On Mazda Miata

Toyota 2000GT & Mazda Miata; two of the most famous and iconic sports cars ever to be produced in the “Land of the rising sun”. However, that and the fact they share the same front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout, is about all these two have in common. 

The 2000GT was a very expensive sports coupe produced in minuscule numbers -just 351 units between 1967 and 1970, while the Miata / MX-5 roadster is one of the best selling sports cars of all time with more than 800,000 units produced since 1989.
Still, that didn’t bother Mr. Makoto Kobayash who runs Road Star Garage in Aichi Japan to find a common ground between the two sports cars. Even if the 2000GT was never actually sold as a cabriolet, two coupes had been transformed into drop tops for the sake of the 1967 James Bond film, “You Only Live Twice”. And that's exactly what inspired the Japanese company into creating a 2000GT Cabriolet replica based on the Mazda Miata / MX5, which they call, Hiroshi.

Unfortunately, that's all we can tell you about the "Hiroshi" as all the details on the company's site are in Japanese and as many of you might know, we can’t tell the difference between sayonara and sushi. But feel free to check out the full image gallery below.