NEW TOYOTA CARINA LAUNCHED IN JAPAN

Tokyo―TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION today launched its all-new Carina lineup. The new model features enhanced exterior styling, improved handling and the most advanced safety and fuel economy technology to date.

Powered by a superb range of engines, including a quick response, 1.6 liter twin-cam, 4-cylinder engine, and employing front and rear stabilizers as standard equipment, the new Carina delivers superior performance in inner city traffic as well as high speed cruising on the open road.

The new Carina also boasts world-class safety levels with an all-new GOA crash absorption body and high integrity cabin, ABS and dual SRS airbags―all as standard equipment. An environmentally friendly, 1.8 liter lean-burn engine with surprisingly low fuel consumption increases the appeal of the new lineup.

DESIGN HIGHLIGHTS

The new Carina is finished in a streamlined, high quality exterior design enhanced by smooth flowing surfaces and angular front and rear detail.
Its silhouette features a wider grille, bolder bumpers and a front view restyled with large multi-reflective headlights. At the rear, a tall, sharp-edged trunk with a wider, more prominent tail lamp assembly helps define its side profile.
To enhance its sportier flavor, the GT version employs aggressive aeroparts including a front spoiler, side mudguards and specially designed wheels.
Inside, the GT is fitted with sports bucket seats, orange-etched gauges, a leather-feel steering wheel, a center console finished in a chic 'black stone' finish and matching power window switches.

FIVE ENGINE CHOICES

Powering the GT version is the 1.6 liter, twin-cam engine featuring 5 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) and a newly developed throttle which supplies fuel independently to each cylinder, providing smooth, rapid acceleration in the higher ranges.
A new 1.8 liter, lean-burn engine delivers improved torque output in the low to middle power band, while at the same time improving fuel economy levels.
A new addition is the high performance 2.0 liter diesel turbo engine, blending superior performance with low fuel consumption.
To round off the engine selection, the new Carina lineup also includes a 1.5 liter twin-cam unit and a 2.0 liter twin-cam engine fitted to the 4WD model.

IMPROVED SUSPENSION

Based on Toyota's acclaimed four-wheel independent strut suspension, the front caster and rear suspension geometry, among other refinements, has been revised and now employs newly developed components, including front and rear stabilizers to reduce body roll and improve steering response. The revised chassis format delivers safer, more comfortable handling in all driving conditions.
The GT version is fitted with 195/60R14 tires, 4-wheel disc brakes and front performance rods. All components have been specially tuned to generate the uncompromising handling expected from such sports models.

ENHANCED SAFETY

Its all-round visibility has been upgraded through the employment of better defined body proportions and styling. All models are equipped with ABS, further enhancing active safety levels.
Incorporating the all-new GOA crash absorption body and high integrity cabin, dual SRS airbags, ELR 3-point seatbelts in all five seating positions―including the rear middle seat―and adjustable rear headrests, all as standard equipment, the new Carina leads its class in passive safety.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

Revisions to the Carina's 1.8 liter lean-burn engine mean that this model offers class topping fuel economy. This is especially noticeable on the ETC-E automatic version's new Flex Lock-up System, having employed high precision, electronic-control technology to expand the drive range of its lockup clutch. This new system boasts an excellent mileage figure of 15.6 km/l in the 10:15 mode.
Toyota's Super Olefin Polymer is employed on the bumpers and instrument panel, enhancing the Carina's recycling capabilities. In addition, the new lineup utilizes Recycled Sound-Proof Products made from the shredder dust of disposed vehicles.

HIGHER COMFORT LEVELS

By increasing vehicle height and widening the angle of the front pillar, passenger access has not only been improved, but the greater headroom translates into a more comfortable interior for five adults. Cabin colors, ergonomic interior design, a more luxurious, cushioned dashboard and sculpted door trim provide a welcome atmosphere of luxury.
To further improve interior comfort levels, engine and body noise and vibration levels have been reduced by shedding engine component weight, reinforcing the subframe's rigidity and generously using sound absorbing materials.
Tilt steering, electric retractable door mirrors, power windows, central door locking system, heat absorbent UV cut glass (on doors and rear window), speed sensitive wipers (with time adjustment function) and rear seatbelts with childseat lockup function are just some of the many other features included as standard equipment.

The new Carina goes on sale nationwide from August 7 at Toyota dealerships and Osaka Toyopet dealers. Monthly sales target: 6000 units.