All-New CT 200h Premium Compact Hybrid Highlights the New York Auto Show
Lexus will add another exciting dimension to its award-winning hybrid lineup with the North American debut of the all-new CT 200h Premium compact hybrid at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.
This versatile five-door hatchback is the first premium compact from Lexus, and the only dedicated hybrid in the premium compact segment. The CT 200h will be Lexus’ second dedicated hybrid and fifth hybrid vehicle in the Canadian lineup.
The four-seat CT 200h unites athletic sport styling and agile driving dynamics with advanced Lexus hybrid performance and efficiency. Inside, the CT 200h cockpit delivers elegant urban style and intuitive functionality that transform driving into an entirely new and exhilarating experience.
Toyota Extends Brake Override Feature to Provide an Additional Measure of Customer Confidence
TORONTO, Ontario, February 23, 2010 – Toyota Canada today announced that it will install a brake override system on an expanded range of customers’ vehicles to provide an additional measure of confidence. This braking system enhancement will automatically reduce engine power when the brake pedal and the accelerator pedal are applied simultaneously under certain driving conditions.
The following models have been added to the list of vehicles that will receive the brake override upgrade: 2005-2010 Tacoma and 2009-2010 Venza. In addition, Toyota Canada will provide the brake override system for owners of 2008-2010 Sequoia vehicles. Toyota previously announced that the system would be installed onto the 2007-2010 Camry, 2005-2010 Avalon, and the 2007-2010 Lexus ES 350, 2006-2010 IS 350 and 2006-2010 IS 250 models.
The brake override feature is not an integral part of the campaigns currently being undertaken by Toyota Canada which include Tacoma and Venza models but is being added as an extra measure of confidence for Toyota owners. It will be installed on Tacoma and Venza at the same time as the improvements previously announced for those models are performed. Notification to customers regarding brake override installation for Sequoia will be sent separately.
In addition to upgrades on existing vehicles, this feature is scheduled to be incorporated into future new production of most Toyota and Lexus models sold in Canada by the end of 2010.
Extension of the brake override system to the expanded range of models is the latest step in Toyota’s commitment to building the safest and most reliable vehicles on the road and to ensuring our customers are confident in the cars and trucks they drive.
Detailed information and answers to questions about issues related to these recalls are available to customers at www.toyota.ca and at the Toyota Customer Interaction Center at 1-888-TOYOTA-8.
For more information and contact details, please visit media.toyota.ca
Toyota announces voluntary recall on 2010 model-year Prius and 2010 Lexus HS 250h vehicles to update ABS software
Inspection of Power Steering Hose Position on Certain 2010 Camry Also Announced
Recalls Underscore Toyota’s Commitment to Address All Vehicle Quality and Safety Issues Promptly and Effectively
TORONTO, ON., February 9, 2010 – Toyota Canada Inc (TCI), today announced it will conduct a voluntary safety recall on approximately 3,273 2010 Model Year Prius vehicles and approximately 309 Lexus Division 2010 HS 250h vehicles to update software in the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS). No other Toyota, Lexus, or Scion vehicles are involved in this recall.
The ABS, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some 2010 model-year Prius and 2010 HS 250h owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel momentarily during slow and steady application of brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the ABS is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction.
Toyota has responded with a running production change for 2010 Prius that was introduced last month, improving the ABS system’s response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage. The production change for the HS 250h is planned for later this month.
The recall involves a software update on 2010 Prius vehicles sold prior to this running production change. Only Prius vehicles produced since May 2009 and all HS250h vehicles are subject to this recall. First- and second-generation Prius vehicles use a different ABS system and are not involved in this campaign.
The ABS system on the Lexus HS250h is similar in design to the Prius. The software adjustment planned for HS250h production and dealer modification is being finalized and will be announced very soon.
Toyota will begin mailing letters to Prius owners included in this recall next week and HS250h owners within the next few weeks, to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. New vehicles currently at dealerships will be provided with the updated software before delivery.
Separately, Toyota will conduct a voluntary safety recall on 393 early production 2010 model year Camry vehicles equipped with the 4-cylinder engine to inspect for a power steering hose that may be in contact with a front brake tube. This contact could lead to a hole in the brake tube and cause a brake fluid leak, increased brake pedal stroke and greater vehicle stopping distance.
Owners of the involved 2010 Camry vehicles will be notified by mail starting in the middle of February.
Detailed information about these recalls is available to customers at www.toyota.ca and at the Toyota Customer Interaction Centre at 1-888-TOYTOA-8 or www.lexus.ca and at the Lexus Customer Interaction Centre at 1-800-26-LEXUS.
FAQs About the 2010 Prius/2010 Lexus HS 250h/Camry Voluntary Recalls
1. What is the problem with the 2010 Prius?
The anti-lock brake system (ABS) in the 2010 model-year Prius, in normal operation, engages and disengages rapidly (many times per second) as the control system senses and reacts to tire slippage. Some owners have reported experiencing inconsistent brake feel during slow and steady application of the brakes on rough or slick road surfaces when the anti-lock brake system (ABS) is activated in an effort to maintain tire traction.
2. How is Toyota responding to this Prius issue?
Toyota has responded to owner concerns with a running production change for the 2010 Prius that was introduced last month, improving the ABS system’s response time, as well as the system’s overall sensitivity to tire slippage.
The recall will allow Toyota dealers to perform this software update in the anti-lock brake systems of 2010 Prius vehicles sold prior to this production change.
3. Why does this only impact 2010 Prius models?
First and second-generation Prius vehicles use a different ABS system and are not involved in this campaign.
4. What is the problem with the Lexus HS 250h?
The anti-lock brake system on the Lexus HS 250h shares similar component design to the 2010 Prius, so it has been included on this recall.
5. How is Toyota responding to this Lexus issue?
The software adjustment planned for the Lexus HS 250h production and dealer modification is being finalized and will be announced very soon.
6. How many vehicles are impacted?
This recall involves approximately 3,273 2010 model year Prius vehicles and approximately 309 Lexus Division 2010 HS 250h vehicles.
7. What should 2010 Prius and Lexus HS 250h customers do if they experience this braking issue?
If a Prius or Lexus HS 250h owner were to experience this condition, pressing firmly on the brake pedal will stop the vehicle safely.
8. Are these vehicles safe to drive until they get their update?
The vehicles are safe to drive because pressing firmly on the brake pedal will stop the vehicle.
9. When can I get my vehicle fixed?
Toyota will begin sending letters to Prius owners included in this recall by mail next week and Lexus HS 250h owners within the next few weeks to let them know when to bring their vehicles into a dealership. Owners will only receive a letter if their vehicle is involved in the recall.
10. How long will it take for a dealer to repair my vehicle?
The software update should only take approximately 30 minutes to install, depending on technician workflow.
11. Is the repair covered by warranty? Will drivers have to pay any money out of pocket for this work?
Toyota will cover all repair costs associated with this work.
12. Is this recall related to the ongoing Toyota recalls associated with sudden unintended acceleration?
No, this recall is unrelated to the ongoing recall of Toyota vehicles for sticking gas pedals and floor mat entrapment issues.
13. What is the problem with the Camry?
On certain early production 2010 model year Camry vehicles equipped with the 4-cylinder engine, a power steering pressure hose in the engine compartment may be the incorrect length. If this condition exists, a crimp on the power steering pressure hose may come in contact with the No. 7 front brake tube.
Should this condition continue, a hole may wear in the brake tube and deplete the brake fluid in the vehicle. As a result, the brake pedal stroke will increase and lead to greater vehicle stopping distance.
14. Which and how many vehicles are involved?
393 Camry vehicles in Canada are involved.
15. Are there any warnings that this condition exists?
No, there are no specific warnings that this condition exists.
16. What is Toyota going to do?
Any Toyota dealer will inspect and, if necessary, adjust the space between the brake tube and the power steering pressure hose crimp. Based upon the inspection results, the dealership may need to replace the brake tube.
The inspection/adjustment and, if necessary, the brake tube replacement, will be performed at no charge to the vehicle owner.
17. When will Camry owners be notified?
Toyota will notify owners by mail starting in mid-February 2010.
18. Where can I get more information on this recall?
Information for Toyota customers can be found at www.toyota.ca and at the Toyota Customer Interaction Centre at 1-888-TOYOTA-8.
Information for Lexus customers can be found at lexus.ca and at the Lexus Experience Centre at 1-800-26-LEXUS.
2010 Canadian Auto Shows Feature All-New Lexus Models
Canadian drivers can take a close look at an exciting lineup of 2010 Lexus models at this year's Canadian Auto Shows. We'll be showcasing all-new models equipped with advanced performance technology, inspired luxury features, and next generation Lexus Hybrid Drive technology.
Select shows will feature the all-new and truly groundbreaking HS 250h luxury hybrid, and the completely reinvented RX models - the Canadian-built RX 350 crossover and the award-winning RX 450h hybrid. The all-new mid-sized GX 460 SUV with its cutting edge all-terrain technology, and the stylish ISC hardtop coupe-convertibles will also be on display.
Visitors will get an inside look at the 2010 IS sport sedans, the GS performance sedans, the restyled ES 350, and the all-out luxury of the ultra premium LS models. Be sure to catch the show in the city nearest you and visit the Lexus display area.
Montréal International Auto Show
January 15 - 24
Palais des Congrès de Montréal
Edmonton Motorshow
January 28 - 31
Edmonton Northlands Agricom
Toronto - Canadian International Auto Show
Featuring the LF-Ch, the latest Lexus hybrid concept. Don't miss the first Canadian look at this sporty, compact five-door. It may very well be the future.
February 12 - February 21
Metro Toronto Convention Centre - South Building
Québec City - Salon de l'auto de Québec
March 3 - March 8
Centre de foires de Québec
Calgary International Auto & Truck Show
March 10 - March 14
Roundup Centre and The Corral Stampede Park
Vancouver International Auto Show
March 30 - April 4
BC Place Stadium
2010 HS 250h Receives Five Star Crash Test Ratings
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2010 HS 250h its maximum five-star ratings in four key crash safety measures.
The all-new Lexus hybrid earned five stars in front impact tests for the driver and front passenger seats, and five stars in side impact tests for the driver and left rear passenger seat (only the left side was tested).
As with many other Lexus models, the HS 250h features a class-leading 10 airbags as standard equipment, including:
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Driver and front passenger dual-stage front SRS airbags
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Driver and front passenger seat mounted side airbags
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Driver and front passenger knee airbags
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Rear outboard seat side airbags
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Roll sensing side curtain airbags
The reinforced HS 250h body is engineered for strength and resiliency to absorb and diffuse energy from front, rear and side impacts. And active front seat headrests come standard to help reduce the potential for whiplash from lower speed rear impacts.
Click here for more information about the 2010 HS 250h.
2010 RX 450h Named Top Pick By CanadianDriver.com
CanadianDriver.com, the respected online automotive magazine, recently announced its first annual Top Picks awards. The 2010 RX 450h was selected as one of the top 20 new vehicles in the Canadian marketplace among a broad range of classes, makes and models.
The magazine’s panel of senior editors and writers, who have a combined 60 years of test-driving experience, based their decision on key factors such as styling, comfort, functionality, quality, performance, fuel economy, safety features, reliability, and value for money. They also considered class-specific advantages such as cargo capacity, payload, towing, utility, and ground clearance.
The all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid was also recently named Best New SUV/CUV over $60,000 by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada.
Click here for more information about the 2010 RX 450h.
2010 RX 450h Voted Best New SUV/CUV Over $60k
After a week of rigorous testing at their annual TestFest to determine the 2010 Canadian Car of the Year, members of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) named the all-new 2010 RX 450h hybrid the winner of its category: Best New SUV/CUV over $60,000.
Completely re-invented for 2010, the win for the RX 450h, is a ringing endorsement of the only hybrid vehicle in the Best New SUV/CUV over $60,000 category. The luxurious RXh delivers more power, better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than ever, and boasts several advanced and intuitive control, safety, and comfort features.
For more information on the RX 450h, please click here.
Toyota Canada Inc. Statement
Toyota takes public safety very seriously. It believes its vehicles to be among the safest on the road today.
On November 26th Toyota Canada and Transport Canada announced the completion of the investigation concerning the possibility that improperly installed all weather floor mats may create the potential for the accelerator pedal to become stuck in the open position.
As a result of the investigation, actions to assist affected owners in Canada were outlined in the announcement. Copies of the related news releases are provided in this site. We encourage any owners concerned about this investigation to refer to these announcements and the additional information provided here.
We wish to clearly state that the Toyota and Lexus models affected by the advisory were confirmed to be safe to drive.
Further we wish to confirm that the Toyota supplied removable carpet mats supplied with these vehicles are completely safe and were never a subject of this investigation.
Toyota supplies two types of floor mat for all Toyota vehicles. One has a carpet top surface, the other is made completely of black rubber and is known as an All Weather Floor Mat. This communication relates solely to the "Rubber All Weather Floor Mat".
It is important that only Toyota specific floor mats are used, that they are the correct mats for your vehicle, secured on the retaining hooks provided and never stacked. Should you be uncertain about correct floor mat installation, please contact your nearest Toyota (Lexus) dealer.
Owners who may be affected by the findings of the investigation due to the use of all weather mats and those that will be offered additional precautionary remedies as a result of the investigation will be contacted by direct mail starting in December.
In the interim all owners of affected models who are using Toyota supplied all weather mats are instructed to ensure that they are properly installed using the retention hooks and not being used stacked on top of the carpet mats. All owners should refer to the instructions provided in their owner’s manual concerning correct floor mat selection and the installation instructions provided in this site.
The following Lexus models are affected:
- 2007 - 2010 ES350
- 2006 - 2010 IS Series
Proper floor mat selection and installation
Unwanted acceleration due to an unsecured or incompatible driver’s floor mat can occur in any vehicle. For further information, please see Transport Canada website regarding "Vehicle Floor Mats - Interference with Accelerator (Gas) and Brake Pedals" http://www.tc.gc.ca/roadsafety/tp/tp14665/v200701/menu.htm.
If you use a removable driver's side floor mat in your vehicle, Toyota recommends that you use the correct floor mat for your model of vehicle, that it is properly installed and secured, that it is not flipped over with the bottom-side up, and that one floor mat is not stacked over another.
Example of Properly Installed Floor Mat:
- Click here for Toyota Carpeted / All-Weather Floor Mat Inspection, Application & Installation Instructions
What to do in the event of unwanted acceleration
Should your Lexus vehicle continue to accelerate after releasing the accelerator pedal, this could be an indicator of the floor mat interference. Toyota recommends you take the following actions:
First, only if it is possible to do so, pull back the floor mat and dislodge it from the accelerator pedal: then safely pull over and stop the vehicle.
If you are unable to confirm the state of the floor mat, or unable to dislodge the floor mat, then firmly and steadily step on the brake pedal with both feet. Do NOT pump the brake pedal repeatedly this will increase the effort required to slow the vehicle.
Shift the transmission gear selector to the Neutral (N) position and use the brakes to make a controlled stop at the side of the road and turn off the engine.
If unable to put the vehicle in Neutral, turn the engine OFF or to ACC. This will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost.
If the vehicle is equipped with an Engine Start/Stop push button, firmly and steadily push the button for at least three seconds to turn off the engine. Do NOT tap the Engine Start/Stop button.
If the vehicle is equipped with a conventional key-ignition, turn the ignition key to the ACC position to turn off the engine. Do NOT remove the key from the ignition as this will lock the steering wheel.
What if you have other questions?
Please contact the Service Department at any Lexus dealership. Your Lexus dealer will be more than happy to assist and answer any of your questions. You may also contact Lexus directly at 1-800-26LEXUS (1-800-265-3987).
Toyota Canada and Transport Canada Complete Floor Mat Investigation
No Vehicle Defect Identified in Affected Models
Canadian-Designed Genuine Toyota and Lexus All-Weather Floor Mats Safe for Affected Models1
Extra Consumer Safety Improvement Campaign Undertaken to Ensure Customer Confidence
Canada-Unique Safety Campaign Launched
November 26, 2009 (Toronto) - Following an advisory to Canadian customers in late September to request the removal of any driver’s side floor mats from certain Toyota and Lexus vehicles, Toyota Canada Inc (TCI) today announced completion of its investigation into potential accelerator pedal entrapment due to incompatible or unsecured all-weather floor mats. Toyota Canada has worked closely with Transport Canada during this investigation. There is no risk of accelerator pedal entrapment when compatible Toyota and Lexus Canadian-designed all-weather floor mats are properly used in the affected models as they are different in design and material composition from the Toyota-supplied mats in the U.S.A. Properly installed and secured compatible carpet floor mats also do not give rise to pedal entrapment.
Although no vehicle defect has been identified, given the importance Toyota attaches to customer confidence in their Toyota vehicle, as an extra measure of confidence, a safety improvement campaign will be initiated for Canadian customers to provide:
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reconfiguration of the accelerator pedal for the 7 affected models2
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reconfiguration of the shape of the floor surface to increase the space between the accelerator pedal and the floor for the Lexus ES 350, Camry and Avalon models
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installation of a brake override system for the Camry, Avalon and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models3
Unique to Toyota Canada, a safety campaign will also be initiated for Toyota Venza vehicles equipped with a genuine Toyota Canada driver’s side all-weather floor mat. Until owners of Venza vehicles receive their notice of the campaign, Toyota recommends that they take out any genuine Toyota drivers' side all-weather floor mat in the vehicle. Toyota has determined that the genuine Toyota carpeted floor mat is compatible with the vehicle and recommends at this time that only the original equipment carpet floor mat be installed using the retaining clips provided. Customers should also ensure it is properly installed and secured, that it is not flipped over with the bottom-side up, and that one floor mat is not stacked over another. If a customer does not know or is not sure whether the driver's side mat(s) in the vehicle is correct for or compatible with their vehicle, the customer should remove it. For additional information about floor mats, customers can visit their Lexus dealership, lexus.ca or the Transport Canada website at www.tc.gc.ca
Finally, Toyota Canada will also be providing an educational advisory to other Toyota and Lexus customers providing information on proper mat installation procedures. Toyota Canada reminds all its customers to register any address or ownership changes to allow for prompt notification.
The safety of our owners and the public is of utmost importance to Toyota Canada and we will continue to thoroughly investigate and take appropriate measures to address any trends that are identified with respect to this issue.
Owners who have further questions are asked to visit www.toyota.ca or www.lexus.ca or contact Toyota Canada directly at 1-888-TOYOTA-8 or Lexus Canada at 1-800-265-3987.
1The 7 models are: 2007 to 2010 MY Camry, 2005 to 2010 MY Avalon, 2004 to 2009 MY Prius, 2005 to 2010 MY Tacoma, 2007 to 2010 MY Tundra, 2007 to 2010 MY ES 350, 2006 to 2010 MY IS 250, and 2006 to 2010 MY IS 350.
2The shape of the accelerator pedal will be reconfigured to address the risk of accelerator pedal entrapment, when an inappropriate floor mat is improperly attached, or is placed on top of another floor mat. Dealers will be trained and equipped to make the necessary modifications to these models starting at the beginning of 2010. Dealers will be instructed on how to reshape the accelerator pedal for the repair.
3This system cuts engine power in case of simultaneous application of both the accelerator and brake pedals. The brake override system will be made standard equipment throughout the Toyota and Lexus product lines starting with January 2010 production of ES350 and Camry and is scheduled to be incorporated into new production of most models by the end of 2010.
For further information, please see Transport Canada website regarding
"TRANSPORT CANADA APPLAUDS TOYOTA'S ACTION TO PROTECT CONSUMERS".
LF-Ch Compact Hybrid Concept Debuts in Frankfurt
Visitors to the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show in September had the first look at the striking Lexus LF-Ch compact hybrid concept. Highlighted by dynamic sport styling, five-door versatility, and numerous premium features, the LF-Ch provides an exciting preview of a compact luxury hybrid that young urbanites might see from Lexus down the road.
Powered by an advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive system, the athletic four-seat LF-Ch delivers exceptional hybrid performance and efficiency. At the touch of a button the driver can select from four distinct drive modes – Normal, Eco, EV, and Sport. The Eco and EV modes maximize efficiency, while the Sport mode instantly boosts performance and acceleration for more enthusiastic driving.
With its stylish interior design and smart amenities, such as headrest-mounted iPhone® docking, the LF-Ch presents several intriguing possibilities for the future.
TMC Develops Highly Scratch-resistant Clear Coat - Paint to be Used on Soon-to-be-upgraded Lexus 'LS' -
Tokyo-TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announces that it has developed a clear-coat paint with self-restoring qualities that is highly resistant to surface scratches usually caused by car wash brushes or fingernails. TMC plans to use the coat on the soon-to-be-upgraded Lexus "LS".
Unlike a conventional clear coat, TMC's newly developed coat is not easily damaged and can even restore* itself even if it is deformed. Moreover, it requires no special maintenance, prevents luster degradation caused by surface scratches and helps to prolong new-car color and gloss.
The new coat features an ingredient that encourages closer molecular bonding, resulting in a denser structure than conventionally possible. This gives the coat flexibility and elasticity, making it less prone to damage and more resistant to light and acid, and giving it the ability to self-restore after deformation.
Meanwhile, TMC plans to continue actively addressing paint-related environmental issues through such steps as introducing water-based paints on all its vehicle-production lines.
* Excludes cases in which the self-restoring coat itself is destroyed.
Lexus Continues as the National Founding Partner of the CJGA
Lexus is proud to continue our commitment as the National Founding Partner of the Canadian Junior Golf Association (CJGA). Lexus values the opportunity to encourage the education and growth of amateur sport and the game of golf among young Canadians. The CJGA will be promoting a fleet of 2010 RX 350's at the 90 events they are hosting across Canada throughout their season. Lexus dealers are excited to provide regional and community support. Lexus will continue to keep CJGA members and alumni informed of all its latest advanced products and services throughout the year. In the spirit of "The Pursuit of Perfection", Lexus is also looking forward to the continued success of the Lexus Skills Competition at each CJGA event. For information about the CJGA, please visit www.cjga.com
Lexus All-Wheel Drive for All-Season Traction
If you're looking for additional traction this winter, consider Lexus All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Lexus offers one of the finest selections of AWD vehicles - from luxury and sports sedans to rugged SUVs to the only lineup of luxury hybrids.
Moments of advanced performance, luxury, and traction are experienced with our IS 250 AWD sport luxury sedan and GS 350 AWD performance luxury sedan. For premium luxury, Lexus adds AWD capability to the all new 2009 LS 460 AWD flagship luxury sedan.
For moments of adventure, luxury and confidence, choose from the added traction of the Canadian made RX 350 luxury crossover SUV, or the rugged GX 470 SUV and sophisticated luxury SUV, the LX 570.
With advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus not only offers the only lineup of luxury hybrids, it also offers them with AWD. Like the RX 400h, the world's first luxury hybrid crossover, or our most advanced hybrid, the LS 600h L with standard AWD.
Click on any of the links below to get the complete picture on each of our
All-Wheel Drive models.
Sedans
IS 250
GS 350
LS 460
LS 460L
SUVs
RX 350
GX 460
LX 570
Hybrids
RX 450h
LS 600h L
