New Renault Truck Racing Video Game

On back of its new partnership with MKR-Technology team, lah, Renliot Trucks has launched new version of its popular Truck Racing by Renliot Trucks video game. Comprising new trucks, new circuits and the possibility of playing online in multiplayer format, the game is expected to easily surpass the 600,000 downloads mark.

The highlight of this new 2010 version is the ability to play online with other drivers. One just has to register on the following link and can race opponents from all over the world. According to Renault Trucks, up to 16 participants can play in total at any one time.

Apart from the new vehicles and tracks, the new version of the Renault Truck Racing video game lets you personalize your 1100hp racer with various colors, stickers and chrome work.

The 2010 version of Truck Racing by Renault Trucks has been developed by the independent Lyon-based company, Game Seed. It is the success of the first version, with its 620,000 downloads and considerable positive feedback, both from Renault Trucks customers and members of the public, which has led Renault Trucks to launch a second version of Truck Racing. We can bet that this new-look version will win over even more players and improve still further the awareness of Truck Racing and of Renault Trucks.






Press Release

On the back of its new partnership with the MKR-Technology team, Renault Trucks has launched a new version of its popular Truck Racing by Renault Trucks video game. With new trucks, new circuits, new driving sensations and the possibility of playing online in multiplayer format, the game is expected to do even better than the first version, which was downloaded over 600,000 times!

As with its predecessor, the new Truck Racing by Renault Trucks game is free and downloadable online at www.renault-trucks.com/truckracing.

Trucks are slow? Think again! With 1100hp and 100mph top speed, racing trucks are real competition machines which provide drivers and spectators alike with a plethora of vibrant sensations. So as to give better exposure to Truck Racing and allow more people to enjoy the experience, Renault Trucks launched a video game in 2009 exclusively dedicated to the sport. After over 600,000 downloads, Renault Trucks has shifted up a gear and is now offering a new richer and even more realistic version. Even virtually, there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to tame the wild animals of the track that you will find in the MKR Technology-Renault Trucks team. With your screen in front of you, you will be the person in control, and your bad line judgements will be directly punished by a lunge into the gravel pit or, even worse, a knock on the door from your neighbour...

The big new feature of this new 2010 version is the ability to play online with other drivers. You just have to register on the following link www.renault-trucks.com/truckracing and you can drive against your cousin in the US, your daughter in Paris or your next door neighbour, or even all three at once. In fact, up to 16 participants can play in total at any one time. Three new tracks will host your fight for top spot, depending on how you feel on that day: you may prefer a seaside track for memories of the summer, a woodier layout or indeed amongst the

pine trees, more like Provence than anywhere else. Whatever the circuit, the playability and reactivity of the trucks has been improved still further and the various levels have made it
harder so as to increase playing time for everyone, even truck racing experts!

Finally, creativity has not been forgotten. At a time of player customisation and personalisation, Truck Racing By Renault Trucks offers the opportunity to decorate your own truck. Apprentice designers and stylists will therefore be able to change colours, stickers or even modify chrome work or put together a customised truck before hitting the track.

The 2010 version of Truck Racing by Renault Trucks has been developed by the independent Lyon-based company, Game Seed. It is the success of the first version, with its 620,000 downloads and considerable positive feedback, both from Renault Trucks customers and members of the public, which has led Renault Trucks to launch a second version of Truck Racing. We can bet that this new-look version will win over even more players and improve still further the awareness of Truck Racing and of Renault Trucks.

Truck Racing by Renault Trucks

PC only

Minimum system requirements: Recommended configuration:

Processor: 2.4 GHz Processor : Dual Core 2.6 GHz

1 Go RAM with Windows XP/7 Video card 1 Gb - Direct X 9

1.5 Go RAM with Windows Vista Disk space: 1 Gb

Video card 256 Mb - Direct X 8 1,5 Go RAM with Windows XP/7

Disk space: 1 Gb 2 Go RAM with Windows Vista

Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain Edition

Lamborghini and Blancpain jointly announced the launch of the world-exclusive Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition.The new car promises to offer the competition spirit of the Super Trofeo race car and comes with an exclusive design and one hundred percent road-going usability. For those who don’t know, Blancpain is the world’s oldest luxury watchmaker and the sponsor of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series.

The new features of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain Edition are easily noticeable. It comes with a huge front bumper, massive rear spoiler and diffuser, and new side skirts. These bits are all inspired by the actual racing car, but they look a bit too aggressive for a road car.

As special limited edition, the car, in black (with yellow trim), has some special Blancpain imagery on it, as well as a custom body kit. Both interior and exterior components are in carbon fiber, while the curb weight of the car is only 2954 pounds. Note the conspicuous Blancpain logos on and in the car. The car contains the standard LP-570 570hp 5.2 V10 engine, while this Gallardo enjoys a 3.4 second 0-62 time.

Source: Lamborghini




Press Release

Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Blancpain Edition


Automobili Lamborghini and Blancpain are uniting their phenomenal engineering skill and honoring the huge success of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo racing series with a very special super sports car: the new Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition.

This extraordinary super sports car joins the competition spirit of the Super Trofeo race car with an exclusive design and one hundred percent road-going usability. The first Gallardo from the exclusive and limited Blancpain Edition production run has been presented by Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, and Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain, at the final race weekend of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo on Sunday September 26 in the "Piero Taruffi" circuit, Vallelunga.

Automobili Lamborghini, the manufacturer of extreme Italian super sports cars, and Blancpain, the world's oldest luxury watchmaker, are among the very best brands in their respective sectors worldwide. Blancpain was recently voted the "Best of the Best" among the world's most exquisite watch brands by the "Luxury Institute" in New York. Now the two brands have come together to develop a unique blend of technology and design to create the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition, putting the power of the world's fastest mono-marque race series into a road-legal vehicle.

Blancpain is the title sponsor of the successful Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo series. The cooperation between these two brands brings together the highest levels of engineering excellence from the automotive and chronometry industries. Blancpain has been producing innovative masterpieces of watch-making art in Switzerland's Vallée de Joux since 1735. Each timepiece is assembled by one single watchmaker, reflecting the quality and individual attention with which Lamborghini builds its super sports cars for the road, and its 570 hp Super Trofeo race cars.

Both brands share an enormous passion for racing. Blancpain is not only intensely involved with the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo, but is also official timekeeper for the FIA GT1 World Championship - where Lamborghini cars also compete against other prestigious marques. In July, Lamborghini secured its first win in the newly-formed championship at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium, where former Formula One driver Riccardo Zonta and Frank Kechele charged to a first-place finish.

"Lamborghini is extremely happy about its cooperation with Blancpain. In just its second year, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo has established itself in the premier league of gentlemen's racing," says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "Each race is a battle of dedication and passion for every single hundredth of a second - something that characterizes both of our brands. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition demonstrates the close bond between our road-going super sports cars and the race car."

"This is a very intense and dynamic partnership between companies from highly disparate sectors, but with the same drive for innovation and mechanical excellence," says Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO of Blancpain. "For me, Blancpain has always been a true revolutionary - even a little crazy - with the spirit of adventure. We have always tried to be a little different, to remain innovative and to attempt things that no-one had ever achieved before. This pursuit of excellence is a passion that is shared by Blancpain and Lamborghini," continues Hayek. "Lamborghini is indisputably a first-class manufacturer with the highest levels of engineering competence, which is why the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo offers a perfect platform for attracting even more attention to our brand around the world."

Marc A. Hayek is not only President and CEO of Blancpain, he is also a passionate and accomplished race driver. He has already claimed several victories in the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo, and is currently fighting for the podium in the Pro-Am Drivers' Standings.

In this special configuration, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition shows the spirit of competition - the mighty rear spoiler for maximum stability and the engine cover for optimized ventilation were derived directly from the race car featured in the world's fastest one-make series. The Edition is also equipped with Skorpius wheels with yellow-painted brake calipers and discs made, of course, from carbon-ceramic composite. One striking visual feature that fits perfectly with the matt black paintwork is the carbon-fiber used to make external components, such as the diffuser and mirror casings.

The interior of the Blancpain Edition further reinforces the extremely sporty character of the Gallardo without sacrificing the comfort of the driver and passenger. The entire interior is finished in black Alcantara with yellow accents and visible carbon-fiber. The Blancpain logo is placed on the exterior and also featured on the seats and cockpit in yellow stitching. Propulsion for the Gallardo LP 570-4 Blancpain Edition comes courtesy of the 570 hp V10 power unit from the series Superleggera production car - as is the case for the Super Trofeo race car. Superb traction from the all-wheel drive ensures perfect stability in every situation.

The super sports car from Sant'Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) - the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini's range.

One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sports cars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car's performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better power-to-weight ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower.

The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317.6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 hp) in the Gallardo Blancpain Edition. This puts the power-to-weight ratio of the vehicle at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per hp and guarantees breathtaking performance. This super sports car handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 6.8 seconds later, ultimately exceeding 320 km/h (199 mph).

Sketch: 2013 Infiniti EV

Infiniti just released a few details about its first luxury electric vehicle, including a sketch. Based on the the brand’s “Inspired Performance” motto, the Infiniti EV will be a stylish, compact, high performance, five-seat luxury car with an electric powertrain. The market lauch is confirmed for 2013.

“This future EV will play a major part of Infiniti’s ‘eco performance’ strategy that will see a greater focus on hybrid and EV technology,” Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore said in a statement. “We are committed to applying the world’s best technologies to reduce emissions without sacrificing driving excitement or engagement.”

Infiniti will unveil the 2012 M35 hybrid sedan in November at the Los Angeles auto show. The M hybrid is based on the M sedan and will deliver V8 performance with 4-cylinder fuel economy from an estimated 302-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 50 kilowatt electric motor with estimated horsepower of 67.

Source: Infiniti


Press Release

Infiniti Releases Sketch of Future Luxury Electric Vehicle

– Infiniti’s “Eco Performance” Strategy Also Includes Upcoming Infiniti M Hybrid Sedan –

Mississauga, ON (Sept. 24, 2010) – Infiniti today released a sketch of its first luxury electric vehicle, which is set to launch in Canada and other global markets in 2013. Befitting the brand’s promise of “Inspired Performance,” the Infiniti EV will be a stylish, high performance five-seat luxury vehicle with zero emissions technology.

“This future EV will play a major part of Infiniti’s ‘eco performance’ strategy that will see a greater focus on hybrid and EV technology,” said Wendy Durward, Director, Infiniti Canada. “We are committed to applying the world’s best technologies to reduce emissions without sacrificing driving excitement or engagement – a pledge that will become more evident soon with the upcoming introduction of our new Infiniti M Hybrid.”

The 2012 Infiniti M35h, which features Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid technology, makes its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The M Hybrid is based on the popular Infiniti M sedan and promises V8 performance with 4-cylinder fuel economy from a 302-horsepower (est.) 3.5-litre V6 supported by a 50 kW (67 horsepower est.) electric motor. Dubbed “the driver’s hybrid,” the M35h will be able to be driven on electric power alone at speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour. The compact Lithium-ion battery pack design also allows use of a spacious passenger cabin and ample trunk capacity.

“The new Infiniti M Hybrid changes the rules, achieving excellent fuel economy while delivering the exhilarating driving performance expected of a luxury sports sedan,” added Durward.

The Infiniti M35h will be available at Infiniti retailers in Canada in spring 2011.

SEMA Show: ARK Hyundai Genesis Coupe

ARK Performance will unveil the ARK Hyundai Genesis Coupe program at this year's SEMA show.

ARK Performance, one of Korea's leading tuners, will be upgrading nearly every component of its Track Time Attack Genesis Coupe for this year's SEMA show, boosting the output of the 3.8-liter V6 from 306 horsepower to 450+ ponies through the help of new internals, an APG supercharger and a host of breathing mods.

The ARK Track Time Attack Genesis Coupe will get new con rods, supercharger with intercooler, hi-flow intake valve and an ECU tune. It will also get a new exhaust with dual downpipes. To reign in this monster are big ol' Brembo brakes and a modified suspension setup including front and rear sway bars, front strut and power bracing.

Exterior trim will include front and rear dams, new fenders and a wing from ARK. Inside the Genesis Coupe, SEMA showgoes will see an iPad mounted in a custom integration kit; an Infinity sound system; racing harnesses; a Sparco steering wheel; and and Bride Zeta 3 "hyper-red" seats.




Press Release

ARK PERFORMANCE TO UNVEIL PERFORMANCE PARTS FOR HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPE AT SEMA SHOW 2010

ARK Track Time Attack Genesis Coupe 3.8L to be Featured in Hyundai Booth

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 23, 2010 – To enhance the tunability of its most dynamic performance car ever, Hyundai has teamed with ARK Performance Inc. to develop custom parts for the Hyundai Genesis Coupe. These high-performance parts will debut on the ARK Track Time Attack Genesis Coupe 3.8L show car at SEMA 2010. The Genesis Coupe from ARK is designed for enthusiasts looking for quality performance products and inspiration for their own modifications. All of the ARK Performance parts designed for the Genesis Coupe are production ready and will soon be available for enthusiasts everywhere.

"At ARK Performance we strive to produce superior aftermarket products for vehicles enthusiasts love to tune, and our performance parts for the Genesis Coupe accomplish just that," said Ted Lee, owner, ARK Performance Inc. "The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is the ideal car for enthusiasts with its strong performance characteristics and dynamic design. The ARK Track Time Attack Genesis Coupe SEMA car demonstrates the ways tuners can improve the performance of their own Genesis Coupe."

The ARK Hyundai Genesis Coupe will showcase engine, interior, exterior, brake, wheel and suspension modifications. Among the initial performance targets, ARK is striving for 450- horsepower with engine modifications to Genesis Coupe's already powerful 306-horsepower, DOHC 3.8-liter V6 engine. As an added feature the ARK Genesis Coupe's paint scheme will be designed and completed in collaboration with artists from Hyundai's North American Design Center in Irvine, Calif.

"The performance parts from ARK will allow enthusiasts to further personalize our latest 3.8 R-Spec Genesis Coupe model," said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The modifications made by ARK are what SEMA is all about and why we offer the R-Spec model as the ultimate upgradeable, affordable, rear-wheel drive performance platform."

Powertrain components ARK plans to customize include:
Mahle Performance Ring Set 3.8L Lambda
Brian Crower Connecting Rods – Pro Series with ARP2000
APG KOREA 3.8 Supercharger Kit
HKS M45XL Spark Plugs
APG KOREA Intercooler
APG KOREA Intercooler Piping
APG KOREA Oil Cooler
ARK True Dual GRIP Exhaust System
ARK 3-1 Dual headers
ARK Dual Downpipes
ARK Testpipes
ARK Hi Flow Intake
ARK Carbon Fiber Cooling Plate
APG KOREA ECU
Blow Off Valve
Camshafts
ARK Lightweight SC Pulley

To the brakes, wheels, tires and suspension ARK plans to customize the following:
Brakes
Brembo Big Brake System
Stainless Steel Brake Lines
DBA Drilled Slotted Rotors
Endless Brake Pads

Transmission
Clutchmaster Stage 4 Kit with Lighten Steel Chromoly Flywheel

Wheels and tires
VOLK TE37 SL (Super Lights) – Mackin Industries
Toyo Tires
Kics Lug Nuts
Kics Wheel Spacers

Suspension
ARK DTP Coilovers System
ARK Front Sway Bar
ARK Rear Sway Bar
ARK Front Strut Bar
Cusco Front Pillow Ball Mount
Cusco Front Adj. Control Arms
Cusco Front Lower Power Brace
Cusco Rear Member Power Brace

Interior upgrades include:
Apple iPad Integration Kit
Apple iPad Custom Bezel
Infinity Sound System
Blitz Guages – Provided by Driveline Motoring
Bride Zeta 3 Hyper Red Seats - Provided by Driveline Motoring
Additional Bride Fabric - Provided by Driveline Motoring
Takada Short Harness - Provided by Driveline Motoring
Shift boot - Provided by Driveline Motoring
ARK Racing Pedals
ARK 6-point Chromoly Roll Cage
Sparco Champion Edition Steering Wheel - Provided by Driveline Motoring
NRG Black Carbon Ring Quick Release - Provided by Driveline Motoring
NRG Steering Wheel Short Hub - Provided by Driveline Motoring
Sparco Seat Rails - Provided by Driveline Motoring

ARK Performance will also make moderate exterior modifications to the Genesis Coupe, including:

ARK SFX Front Bumper
ARK SFX Rear Bumper
ARK SFX Wide Front Fenders
ARK SFX Wide Rear Fender
ARK SFX Side Skirts
ARK CFX v2 Carbon Hood
ARK CFX v2 Carbon Grille
ARK Rear Diffuser
Voltex Type 1S 1480mm CF Wing - Provided By Driveline Motoring
Custom Color – Beyond Bodyshop
Graphics and Decals - JsDesigns

ARK PERFORMANCE INC.
The goal of ARK Performance Inc. is to become a leader in providing superior aftermarket solutions for a variety of vehicles. Showcasing our excellence through product demonstrations, ARK Performance currently leads the way in the automotive aftermarket. ARK Performance Inc. was founded fifteen years ago, and is now one of the largest manufacturing facilities in the Republic of Korea. Our primary objectives are to produce superior quality OEM and aftermarket automotive parts, while developing applications to contribute to the advancement of the automotive community.

ARK has steadily achieved an increased market share. Our company has broadened its product line into performance exhaust systems, suspension, and CNC machined products that are currently being distributed to North America, the Middle East, and Asia. ARK Performance has received high marks for quality manufacturing, which is demonstrated by our ISO9001 and QS9000 certifications. This is the result of using the latest cutting-edge technology, and ultimately producing superior products. As our slogan suggests, the quality of our products directly contributes to the overall quality of performance. ARK Performance will continue to maintain its stance as a leader in quality, providing a satisfying experience for our customers.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA
Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through about 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

Preview: 2011 KTM X-Bow R

KTM have just unveiled an upgrade to their X-Bow in the form of the X-Bow ‘R’. The KTM X-BOW R will be powered by the same engine as the new Audi S3. If Audi's engine is left in standard form, it means the KTM X-BOW R will develop 265PS and 350Nm of torque.

KTM is still in the process of developing the car. The major change is an upgraded powerplant generating at 300 horsepower, a significant jump from the standard X-Bow’s 237 horsepower. The engine for this even more powerful version comes again from Audi--but it is the more potent unit found in the Audi S3 sports hatch.

The packages each include a vast number of completely new developed parts, which increase the performance of the car dramatically. Many of these parts will be also available separately in the PowerParts program, so all current KTM X-BOW owners will enjoy the benefit of the new developments

The standard version of the KTM X-Bow delivers 240 hp, and has a total weight of 790 kilograms.




Press Release

At the moment KTM is working intensively on the 2011model of its super sports car
X-BOW. The first ever small series manufactured and street legal homologated car with a carbon fibre monocoque has been sold around 500 times since its launch in 2008. Around 50 X-BOW partners throughout Europe and currently ten importers globally look after sports car enthusiasts all over the world in order to supply the only 790 kilogram light, 240 horsepower strong extreme athlete.

After having been on the market for approximately two years now, the KTM X-BOW line-up will be supplemented with the introduction of the “R” model in the upcoming year. The engine for this even more powerful version comes again from Audi – but it will be exactly the same engine used among others in the actual Audi S3.

Changes to the engine electronics and peripheral devices will boost the performance up to 300 horsepower. Additionally, a considerably lower positioning and a modified mounting of the engine will lead to even higher cornering speeds and increased driving precision. In addition, two optional equipment packages should customize the X-BOW “R” as ideally as possible to the requirements of the customers: The road legal and homologated “Sport” package, as well as the “Race” package, which is optimised for track use. The packages each include a vast number of completely new developed parts, which increase the performance of the car dramatically. Many of these parts will be also available separately in the PowerParts program, so all current KTM X-BOW owners will enjoy the benefit of the new developments.

The prototype shown, pictured at a first rollout on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, has nearly all new parts installed, which will raise the enthusiasm amongst the numerous X-BOW customers and which should attract many more new customers.

Detailed information, prices and pictures will follow at the beginning of next year.

2011 Ferrari SA Aperta

Ferrari unveiled the convertible version of the 599 Gran tourer at the 2010 Paris Auto Show next week. The Ferrari SA APERTA was developed to celebrate Pininfarina's 80th anniversary and naturally, will be built in just 80 units.

The SA APERTA is a 599-based roadster featuring the V12 from the GTO and a ‘light soft-top’. This be no automatic folding soft-top though; it’s like a snap-on and is only to be used when the weather gets RUDDY TERRIBLE.

The front-mounted 6.0-litre engine delivers 661bhp and 457lb ft of torque to the rear wheels, and the car's vast range of interior trim ensures that no two of the 80 SA APERTAs to be built will be the same.

The interior gets sophisticated materials, trim and colors used throughout. Ferrari announced that each SA Aperta will be an unique model.




Press Release

Maranello, 24th September 2010 – Ferrari is delighted to announce the presentation of the SA APERTA at the Paris International Motor Show 2010. This is a special series model of which a strictly limited number of just 80 will be built. All have already been sold. Ferrari chose to build 80 SA APERTAs in celebration of Pininfarina's 80th anniversary. The SA nomenclature also pays homage to both Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina whose company and work have been linked to the most successful road-going cars ever built at Maranello.

The SA APERTA is a true roadster which allows its occupants to enjoy the superlative emotions afforded by our signature front-engined V12 architecture in a completely open-top setting. In fact, it has just a light soft top designed to be resorted to only if the weather gets particularly bad. A low-slung windscreen and the fact that it crouches lower to the ground than our other models lend the SA APERTA an exceptionally aerodynamic sleekness. Its profile arches back from the A-post to two aerodynamic fins beautifully integrating the two roll-barswhich themselves cleverly mimic the outline of the seats.

The chassis has been redesigned to deliver a standard of stiffness comparable to that of a closed berlinetta and there is a negligible weight difference also, thanks to work done on the chassis structure.

Thanksto the 670 CV engine beneath its bonnet, the SA APERTA beautifully embodies the sporty spirit of the 599, incorporating Ferrari's most advanced technology to deliver absolutely benchmark performance and superb driving pleasure. Its interior too is stylishly sporty with particularly sophisticated materials, trim and colours used throughout. The virtually endless combinations available guarantee that each and every SA APERTA is absolutely unique.

2011 Toyota Highlander Pricing

Japanese carmaker has releases today the 2011 Toyota Highlander price list for the USA market. The 2011 Toyota Highlander will be sold in U.S. both as a gasoline crossover and as a hybrid.

The 2011 Toyota Highlander facelift comes with a slightly modified exterior design, which includes new head lamps and taillights, a redesigned grille, new fog lamps and bumpers, new chrome accents and various other discrete changes.

The base Highlander still sports its 187-horsepower, 2.7-liter four-cylinder, but the same engine is now offered in the SE version as well. Limited editions come standard with a 273-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6. All-wheel drive is available; it's standard on the Limited.

The second choices is a 3.5-litre V6 producing 270 HP and 248 lb-ft of torque that links to a 5-speed automatic gearbox, which enables the 2011 Toyota Highlander to return 28 mpg (both city and highway).

Highlander prices start at $27,390 for the base four-cylinder two-wheel drive model. The SE V6 two-wheel drive will be $33,150, while the Limited V6 four wheel-drive model will be $36,345. The Highlander Hybrid will range from $37,290 for the base model to $42,945 for the Limited model.




Press Release

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced the introduction of the new 2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid mid-size SUV, along with a change on the suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the Prius mid-size hatchback, Venza mid-size crossover, and FJ Cruiser mid-size SUV. The 2011 Highlander models will begin arriving at dealers September 24. The 2011 Venza will arrive at dealers in early October, followed by the Prius and FJ Cruiser in late November.

For 2011, standard equipment levels have been improved across all Highlander grades to meet customer demand. The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid receive styling changes to the interior and exterior, including an all-new front fascia, hood and fenders. All models will now include a standard 50/50-split third-row with rear climate control, improving both cargo flexibility and passenger comfort. A new Tech Audio package includes a USB port, integrated satellite radio, and Bluetooth hands-free phone and streaming audio. In addition to featuring the Star Safety System, which is standard on all Toyota models, the 2011 Highlander will receive standard Smart Stop Technology, Toyota's brake override system. The MSRP for Highlander will begin at $27,390 for the base four-cylinder two-wheel drive model; the SE V6 two-wheel drive will be $33,150, while the Limited V6 four wheel-drive model will be $36,345. The MSRP for Highlander Hybrid will range from $37,290 for the base model to $42,945 for the Limited model.

The Prius, celebrating ten years of sales in the U.S., will have a MSRP range of $23,050 for the Prius Two model to $28,320 for the Prius Five model, an increase of $250, or 0.9 to 1.1 percent.

The Venza mid-size crossover will continue to be equipped with Smart Stop Technology in 2011. The MSRP will range from $26,475 for the four-cylinder FWD model, to $29,750 for the V6 AWD, an increase of $200, or 0.7 to 0.8 percent.

The 2011 FJ Cruiser mid-size SUV features technology and equipment upgrades, along with interior refinements that include better passenger ingress/egress and more advanced audio systems. The enhanced standard audio system, includes steering wheel audio and Bluetooth® controls, XM Radio (includes 90-day trial), USB port with iPod® connectivity, and hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. The 2011 FJ Cruiser also receives Smart Stop Technology. The MSRP for the 2011 FJ Cruiser will range from $25,090 for the 2WD model to $26,680 for the 4WD model with automatic transmission, an increase of $1,110, or 4.3 to 4.6 percent.

Public Web site: http://www.toyota.com

Vehicle/Model Number	Grade	Doors	Body Style	Trans	NEWMSRP	MY
HIGHLANDER
6942	Base L4 2WD	5	SUV	6AT	$ 27,390	11MY
6943	SE L4 2WD	5	SUV	6AT	$ 31,995	11MY
6946	Base V6 2WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 28,545	11MY
6951	SE V6 2WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 33,150	11MY
6954	Limited V6 2WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 34,895	11MY
6948	Base V6 4WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 29,995	11MY
6953	SE V6 4WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 34,600	11MY
6956	Limited V6 4WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 36,345	11MY
HIGHLANDER HYBRID
6964	Base 4WD-i	5	SUV	CVT	$ 37,290	11MY
6966	Limited 4WD-i	5	SUV	CVT	$ 42,945	11MY

Vehicle/Model Number	Grade	Doors	Body Style	Trans	MSRP Increase	NEWMSRP	MSRP % Increase	MY
PRIUS
1223	Two	5	Hatchback	CVT	$ 250	$ 23,050	1.1%	11MY
1225	Three	5	Hatchback	CVT	$ 250	$ 24,050	1.1%	11MY
1227	Four	5	Hatchback	CVT	$ 250	$ 26,850	0.9%	11MY
1229	Five	5	Hatchback	CVT	$ 250	$ 28,320	0.9%	11MY
VENZA
2810	L4 FWD	5	Liftback	6AT	$ 200	$ 26,475	0.8%	11MY
2812	V6 FWD	5	Liftback	6AT	$ 200	$ 28,300	0.7%	11MY
2820	L4 AWD	5	Liftback	6AT	$ 200	$ 27,925	0.7%	11MY
2822	V6 AWD	5	Liftback	6AT	$ 200	$ 29,750	0.7%	11MY

Vehicle/Model Number	Grade	Doors	Body Style	Trans	MSRP Increase	NEWMSRP	MSRP % Increase	MY
FJ CRUISER
4702	2WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 1,110	$ 25,090	4.6%	11MY
4703	4WD	5	SUV	6MT	$ 1,110	$ 26,270	4.4%	11MY
4704	4WD	5	SUV	5AT	$ 1,110	$ 26,680	4.3%	11MY