New petrol and diesel engine families, all-new platforms and previously unexplored niches are on the cards for Toyota fans. But first up… the all-important Hilux and Fortuner.
Toyota South Africa will see out 2015 with a couple of imminent new arrivals, but the heavy hitters – in the shape of the new Hilux and Fortuner – arrive during February and April 2016 respectively. But that's not the only new metal to come from this much-loved brand during 2016. A number of important models are also due for refreshening or replacement soon. And there could be a couple of brand new additions, too, including a sporty compact crossover to battle the likes of the Nissan Jukeand Renault Captur. Toyota's spokesperson was understandably loathe to comment on all the rumours, but there are interesting possibilities that Toyota has thus far not openly discussed. Whether this means there is truth to the chatter or not, we will have to wait and see. Examples of such potential developments include;
A very small crossover (sub-4m) based on the next-generation Etios could be sourced from India.
The Daihatsu Terios could re-emerge as the Toyota Rush, as it has already done elsewhere in the world. Daihatsu recently pulled out of South Africa but is owned by Toyota. Read more about that here.
Similarly, the Daihatsu Gran Max could become a Toyota and give the brand a valuable new entrant in the LCV market.
Toyota has previously toyed with the idea of relaunching the Camry large sedan, or alternatively the Avensis. We believe neither are currently high priority subjects.
Toyota is in the process of rolling out a new generation of petrol engines, most using the lean-burning Atkinson cycle which was previously reserved for its hybrids. Toyota has already stated that some of these new-generation engines will also be turbocharged. There is talk of a powerful 2-litre, four-cylinder turbo to replace the V6 used in the Camry in some markets. It remains to be seen if some of these engines could be used to develop some exciting "mainstream" performance models, such as a Auris hot hatch.
On another note, Toyota South Africa remains committed to the local manufacture of the Quantum, Hilux, Fortuner, Corolla Quest and Corolla models. HIGHLIGHTS
TOYOTA AYGO – SA LAUNCH IMMINENT This quirkily styled new supermini arrives in South Africa during October and will be offered with one engine and in two trim lines. The engine in question is the three-cylinder 1-litre petrol unit that develops 51 kW and 95 Nm of torque. We expect both local derivatives to use a five-speed manual transmission. A fuel consumption figure of 4.4L/100 km applies to this engine. The cheekily styled newcomer is slightly wider and longer than before, but a little lower. Nevertheless front headroom has improved and there is even more boot space. The Toyota Aygo shares its underpinnings with the new Citroen C1, which we testedlate last year. Inside, expect to see features such as electric windows and Bluetooth connectivity. Click here to read more about the new Toyota Aygo.
TOYOTA AVANZA FACELIFT – SA LAUNCH IMMINENT
Don't be fooled by the Daihatsu badge on the vehicle pictures above – what you are looking at here is the facelifted Avanza, sold in some markets as the Daihatsu Xenia. It goes on sale in South Africa during October to battle the Suzuki Ertiga and Honda Mobilio. For this upgrade we don't expect any major mechanical changes, with the current 1.3- and 1.5-litre petrol engines to continue. Besides the obvious aesthetic changes to the exterior, the majority of the work has happened inside, where a significantly revised instrument cluster and control panel awaits. We expect some models to feature a new touch-screen infotainment system (with Bluetooth). The safety specification may be improved through the addition of rear Isofix child seat mounts.
TOYOTA LAND CRUISER FACELIFT – SA LAUNCH BEFORE YEAR-END
The flagship Land Cruiser 200 is due for an upgrade during November. The visual changes are obvious and you can have a closer look at them on a video on this page, but it's also made a big step inside. Toyota says it has improved the quality of the materials and neatened up the control layout. The facelifted model also get a number of new features, including Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and a nifty panoramic terrain monitor. A far more capable infotainment system is also likely to be fitted as standard. Toyota has not yet announced the local line-up's pricing and specifications but we expect both the 4.6-litre V8 petrol and the 4.5-litre twin-turbodiesel to feature in South Africa.
TOYOTA RAV4 – FACELIFT/UPGRADE COMES VERY SOON
Making its way to local dealerships during December for a likely early 2016 market release is the updated Toyota RAV4. The exterior design of the current model has been contentious, so Toyota has worked hard to up the desirability of this crucial model. Expect a number of new colours and wheel designs to also reach South Africa. Inside, new infotainment systems are offered and there has been a focus on upping the quality of the materials. It remains to be seen which of the new high-tech safety and convenience features will reach South Africa, but an attractive offering would be the new Bird's Eye View monitor that uses four cameras to deliver a 360-degree overview of the vehicle's immediate surroundings. Also added to the available features list (in other markets) are; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic High Beam systems, among numerous others. The hybrid model will not be offered in South Africa.
TOYOTA HILUX – SA LAUNCH DURING FEBRUARY 2016
The big news from Toyota for a good few years (at least from a South African perspective) is the launch of the all-new Hilux in February. With the competition heating up in the bakkie segment (facelifted Rangeris imminent) and Toyota lagging to some extent on the passenger side, the Hilux is a crucial product. Details of the South African line-up will become clearer following the European launch later this year, but from the initial marketing material it is clear that Toyota has worked hard to address most of the criticisms that could be levelled at the current model. Depending on the model, the payload rating is now up to 1.2 tonnes, and the tow rating up to 3.5 tonnes. The cabin structure has been strengthened and there has been a big focus on safety features. Inside, the very car-like layout and design will please those shopping for a leisure vehicle but it remains to be seen what the more workhorse-oriented models will look like. Under the bonnet there is a new 2.4-litre turbodiesel (120 kW/400Nm) and a 2.8-litre turbodiesel (132 kW/450Nm). Six-speed automatic transmissions will be offered on some models. The manual transmission (6-speed) 2.8-litre model will have slightly less torque. We expect the current 2.7- and 4.0-litre petrol models to continue. Read more here.
TOYOTA FORTUNER – SA LAUNCH APRIL 2016
Following hot on the heels of the Hilux is another South African favourite, the Fortuner SUV. Facing some stiff new competition in the shape of the imminent Ford Everestas well as the redesigned Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, the second-generation Fortuner replaces a firm South African favourite. The new model represents a significant step upmarket for Fortuner, with a vastly more sophisticated cabin featuring the latest infotainment and safety technologies. Expect seven airbags in all models as well as touch-screen infotainment systems. Toyota expects the new Fortuner to achieve a five-star safety rating. Features such as trailer-sway control and push-button all-wheel drive selection will be present. Addressing one of the few issues with the current vehicle is a far more car-like ride/handling set-up, courtesy of a five-link, coil-sprung rear suspension set-up. Although the Fortuner will in Australia only be sold with the new 2.8-litre turbodiesel form the Hilux, South Africa will get more engine options. In fact, we expect the new 2.4-litre turbodiesel to also feature, as well as the current 4.0 V6. The Fortuner will again be built in South Africa. Read more here.
TOYOTA PRIUS – SA LAUNCH DURING 2ND QUARTER OF 2016
Revealed last week, the fourth-generation Prius is currently still under investigation for the South African market. If it arrives, it is most likely to hit showrooms in the second quarter of the year. The Prius is the first model to use Toyota's flexible new TNG platform that will underpin just about every new Toyota due in the next five years. It is about 50kg lighter than before and also significantly stiffer. The lower centre of gravity, combined with the new platform, have apparently given the Prius a far sportier driving feel. A big talking point has been the design. The frankly bizarre looks (especially at the rear) are the result of an obsession with aerodynamics and the overall look is inspired by the Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell car. Toyota has not yet released performance/consumption details but has said that the engine now runs at an almost unheard of 40% thermal efficiency, and that both the nickel-metal hydride battery packs and the hybrid system are more compact. Read more here.
TOYOTA INNOVA – SA LAUNCH DURING MAY 2016
Already pencilled in for its South African launch during May 2016, the all-new Innova (a close relation to the Hilux and Fortuner) has not yet been revealed internationally. We do know, however, that this time round a diesel engine (from the new Hilux/Fortuner) is very likely. The current model is only available with the very thirsty 2.7-litre petrol engine. An automatic transmission could also join the line-up, as it will do elsewhere. As is the case with the new Hilux and Fortuner, safety has been a major focus area for the Innova. The ladder frame chassis has been strengthened for improved frontal crash protection and it will likely feature up to seven airbags and ESP. Inside, the fit, finish and features will make the Innova appear far less utilitarian than is the case with the current model. Expect modern info-tainment systems and even some high-tech safety assistance features. It is not clear at this point whether both seven- and eight-seater versions will again be offered.
TOYOTA COROLLA FACELIFT – LIKELY MID 2016
The Corolla comes under the surgeon's knife during 2016 to bring its design in line with other recent Toyota unveilings, most notably the updated Auris and new Aygo. Toyota is usually very conservative with the Corolla, so don't expect anything major. Most of the big changes are likely to happen in the cabin (upgraded materials and new infotainment/safety features) or under the bonnet. Toyota is in the process of rolling out a number of new engines that target efficiency, so expect to see at least the new 1.2-litre turbopetrol to migrate to the Corolla at some point, but maybe not initially. A new naturally aspirated 1.5-litre direct injection petrol engine has also been unveiled for the Corolla in other markets.
TOYOTA COROLLA QUEST – MINOR UPDATES IN 2016
The popular Corolla Quest (a reworked previous-generation Corolla) will get a minor update during 2016. Exact details are unknown but we expect this locally produced model to get some stylistic tweaks and a few cabin enhancements. See our video review of the Corolla Questhere.
TOYOTA 86 REFRESH – DURING 2016
The current Toyota 86 is due for a refresh shortly, and rumours are that this should happen around mid-2016. Details are scarce at present but it is tipped to get (very) slightly more power from the same engine as well as an upgraded rear suspension to improve the handling. It is reported that Gazoo Racing has had input on the dynamics of the revised car. Based on initial spy images, the styling changes do not look significant. There will be revised head- and tail lamps, as well as new bumpers and, by the looks of it, bigger exhaust outlets and a standard rear wing.
TOYOTA PRADO UPDATE – LIKELY DURING 2016
A very slight update to the popular Prado should happen in 2016. In Australia the big news has been the adoption of the Hilux/Fortuner-sourced 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine instead of the current 3.0-litre turbodiesel. Whether this will also be the case with SA-bound vehicles remains to be seen. At this stage this is unlikely seeing as the engine in the Prado is mapped differently to the one in the Hilux and not compatible with our fuel at this point. There are very few visual changes to the Prado (if any), but we do expect some new features such as cross-traffic alert to become available as well.
TOYOTA “COMPACT CROSSOVER” – WORLD LAUNCH 2016
This is one of the most important new models to come from Toyota for some time. It is based on the new modular TNG platform, as debuted recently by the Prius, and boasts styling inspired by the C-HR concept pictured above, unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this week. There have been rumours that it may be called the Auris Cross. Whatever they call it, this vehicle will compete in an immensely popular (and growing) niche populated by the likes of the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur/Duster, Opel Mokka and Ford EcoSport. Very soon just about every manufacturer will have a contender in this segment. This vehicle will most likely mainly be powered by Toyota's new 1.2-litre turbopetrol, but there will also be turbodiesels. Expect front- and all-wheel drive derivatives, as well as manual and CVT (continuously variable transmission) 'boxes. A hybrid version is also likely. We expect to see a production model at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show and South African availability before year-end 2016.
TOYOTA ETIOS – INDIAN DEBUT EXPECTED IN 2016
While the Etios has done well in South Africa and one or two other developing nations, it has not been quite the smash hit in its home country, India. It is reported that Toyota believes the biggest problem to be its bland, uninspiring design. So, for the next model, which could debut in India as soon as next year, it is expected that the current platform will be retained, but that the skin will be entirely new. The goal, apparently, is to give the Etios a "mini-Corolla" look. Also possible is that there will be a proper crossover developed off the same platform, potentially in addition to the popular current Etios Cross. The vehicle pictured above is the Daihatsu CUV2 concept. Failing a compact crossover from India, it is possible that Toyota could in future look to the production version of the CUV2 to fill the gap.
TOYOTA YARIS – NEXT-GEN MODEL ARRIVES WORLDWIDE IN 2017
The current Yaris has failed to set the sales charts alight, even following a fairly intensive facelift that addressed many of its initial shortcomings. Even so, it is perhaps a bit cramped compared with the current market leaders and lacks sparkle in the engine department. So, for the next generation it will move to a smaller version of the TNG platform (NGA-B) and Toyota will likely focus on the 1.2-litre turbopetrol for this model too. This engine made its debut in the European-specification Auris recently and is one of the first of a reported 14 new engines that will come from Toyota in the immediate future…
TOYOTA SUPRA – SPORT/SUPERCAR SCHEDULED FOR 2017
We recently reported on what the outcome of the BMW/Toyota sportscar partnership may yield for the German carmaker, but it looks like Toyota will be out of the starting blocks first. It recently trademarked the name "S-FR" and this could be interpreted to mean "Sports-Front engine/Rear-wheel drive) or the "S" could stand for Supra, an iconic Toyota moniker. Whatever it will be called, this machine is likely to hit the international market as soon as 2017. Using BMW know-how to develop a lightweight and very rigid chassis, and further collaboration on a high-tech hybrid drivetrain, this "Supra" would be potent foil to the new Honda NSX and even a car such as the Mercedes-AMG GT.Click here to read more about the FT-1 concept, said to preview the design of the new super Toyota.
TOYOTA RAV4 – ALL-NEW VERSION COMES IN 2018
The next-generation RAV4 is due in 2018 and also moves to the new TNG platform. Given the importance of the SUV/crossover market internationally, we expect some range expansion. Look out for a seven-seat version to join the line-up. The engines will be down-sized for efficiency and a hybrid version will again be part of the range (though possibly not in South Africa). A CVT (continuously variable transmission) remains part of mix.
TOYOTA 86 – SECOND-GENERATION CAR SHOULD DEBUT IN 2018
Toyota insiders have already let slip that the 86 (or GT-86 as it is called in some countries) will remain part of the Toyota product line-up in future. Toyota dropped the sports car ball in the previous decade when it killed off the Supra, Celica and MR-2 in quick succession, so is keen not to repeat the same mistake. There is plenty of speculation about the second-generation 86 at this point, but a strong rumour is that Toyota's recent tech-sharing agreement with Mazda could see the 86 being spun off the new MX-5 platform. That would mean a smaller, lighter car, which is very much the direction that Toyota wants to move. It is also suggested that the next-generation model will have KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) or even be a hybrid.
TOYOTA COROLLA/AURIS – ALL-NEW IN 2019
Near the end of the decade an all-new Corolla will make its debut. The hatchback Auris model, which is primarily targeted at European markets, may actually reach the market slightly earlier. No information is yet available on this crucial car, but it will of course shift to the TNG platform. Were not sure if this will impact South African production, but we already know at least some Corolla production will be shifted to Mexico for this generation of Corolla. Also read our five-year product previews of the following brands:
With the ultimate goal of spending his life writing about cars, Hannes studied journalism at the University of Stellenbosch. A brief stint as a sports editor for Paarl Post followed, before he joined CAR magazine in 2001. He eventually became the (youngest-ever) editor of CAR in 2011, a position he occupied for two years. During his career at CAR he became a member of the WCOTY (World Car of the Year) panel, wrote a book (Cranked Up: Confessions of a Petrolhead) and was named by the Mail & Guardian as one of the Top 200 South Africans to take to lunch in its 2008 Youth Day supplement, and by The Media magazine as one of the most influential media professionals under 40 (2012). He left CAR in 2013 to experience the \other\" side of the industry
