Toyota Introduces The Curren A New Coupe Geared For Younger Drivers

Tokyo―TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION today introduced a new medium-size coupe called the Curren in Japan. The new model is available through Toyota Vista outlets nationwide with a monthly sales volume of 2,000 units.

The development concept behind the Curren (name adopted from the English "current" with its connotations of "in the mode" and "chic") is geared for the stylish tastes of younger drivers. The new car is a two-door coupe featuring a low, wide design and sporty ride. With a 2-liter twin-cam engine, high-performance chassis, and light-weight high-rigidity body, the Curren is 'offered in a lineup of high value-for-money variations.

Description of the CURREN

Design

Starting with generous dimensions (4,490mm length, 1,750mm wide, 1,310mm high) and a low center of gravity, the outline of the sharply defined front fender metamorphoses into the curves of the rear fender via the Curren's delicately changing side lines.

The respective functions of each light in the front combination lamps are clearly defined, and the slim radiator grill makes for a tight and compact front-end.

Powertrain

Two engines are available: the 2-liter sporty twin-cam 3S-GE engine, and the 2-liter high-efficiency twin-cam 3S-FE engine, which delivers high torque in the low-and medium-speed ranges as well as low fuel consumption.

The 3S-FE engine comes in two variations, each with camshafts specifically designed for optimal integration with either an automatic or a manual transmission.

Chassis

A special super-strut suspension is available on 3S-GE-equipped Currens. By reducing the moment on the steering axis and the ground-to-vehicle camber angle, Toyota's engineers have achieved outstanding maneuverability for quick turns, high-speed driving, and especially for emergency situations where quick response is essential.

All variations of the Curren offer four-wheel disc brakes as standard equipment, and a four-wheel antilock brake system (ABS) is available as an option.

Safety

The following equipment contributes to enhanced safety

• Four-wheel ABS (optional on all variations)
• Traction control (TRC) (optional on certain variations)
• Viscous-coupled torque-sensing limited slip differential (LSD) (standard on manual-transmission variations equipped with super-strut suspension)
• High-mount stop lamp (standard on all variations)

A crash impact-absorbing structure (CIAS) has been adopted for the passenger compartment to minimize deformation of the compartment in the event of a collision, and supplemental restraint system (SRS) air bags for the driver's seat are available as an option on all variations.

Environment

To help protect the ozone layer, HFC134a has been adopted as the coolant for use in the Curren's air conditioning system.

Resin waste generated during the manufacturing process is recycled, and plastic parts are marked to identify resin materials for proper recycling.