Toyota releases fully redesigned Vitz (Echo in U.S.)

Toyota Motor Corporation announced today the nationwide sales launch of the completely redesigned Vitz through “Netz Toyota” dealers in Japan.

The popular first-generation Vitz was launched in 1999 and triggered an expansion of the compact car market. Offering both an interior space that comfortably seats four adults in an easy-to-handle package and excellent basic performance, the first-generation Vitz created a standard for compact cars.

Based on a “Proud of My Compact” development concept, the second-generation Vitz is designed to provide a performance level that is one above that of ordinary compact cars. The new Vitz offers comprehensive improvements in basic performance features such as driving and safety, as well as in riding comfort, functionality and quality. In the words of Chief Engineer Kousuke Shibahara, “We designed the new Vitz so that owners would be able to experience the outstanding quality the moment they grip the steering wheel and think contently to themselves ‘I’m glad I bought a Vitz.’”

A newly developed platform and a superior package create a roomy interior, along with a nimble and stable driving feel, an advanced and elegant interior, and the highest safety and environmental performance in its class. The embodiment of high quality, the new Vitz cuts a new standard for next-generation compact cars.

Sporty exterior with a sense of presence and an advanced and elegant interior The exterior design is based on the concept of "Powerful Simplicity."

An integrated-bumper configuration, with bold transversal lines extending from the windshield to the front bumper, results in a powerful front view.

A mono-form silhouette with a tilted windshield and supple character lines flowing from the front to the rear, produce a dynamic side view on a vehicle body with compact dimensions.

A forward-leaning rear shape and a wide wheel tread create a firmly grounded and stable posture.

Interior design based on the concept of "Vivid Simplicity" The novel vertical center cluster design creates ample legroom.

The generous cabin space is emphasized by the use of a bright, looped molding that continuously flows from the ceiling to the pillars and door armrests.

Doors can be locked and unlocked by simply having the key on one's person. The Smart Entry and Start System uses a push button to start the engine.

Also featured is an automatic air-conditioner with a pollen-removal mode that, with the operation of a switch, filters out pollen, dust and other impurities from the air around the faces of the vehicle occupants (the first of its kind).

Superior package achieves generous cabin space inside compact exterior dimensions A newly developed platform provides for class-leading legroom of 880mm between the front and rear seats.

By using rear seats with seatbacks that fold in a 60:40 split and can be tumbled forward for increased luggage space (in the 1.3F (2WD), X and U (2WD) grades), seatbacks that fold in a 60:40 split and can be folded flat (in the 1.3F (4WD) and U (4WD) grades) or a single seatback that folds forward for increased luggage space (in the B, 10F and RS grades), the new Vitz offers demand-matching seat arrangement versatility.

A newly designed suspension and brakes make for brisk yet stable driving performance and a comfortable ride. Linear acceleration and a smooth driving feel have been achieved through the use of the new Super CVT-i (Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent).

The GOA construction has been further evolved by incorporating the concept of compatibility, which considers the fate of both vehicles in situations where passenger vehicles of differing weights collide, as a means of promoting crash safety for both cars in a collision with a vehicle of up to the 2-ton range. Collision tests at 55km/h were conducted, the highest testing speed used for Toyota vehicles so far.

Seat structures that incorporate the WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept, designed to further reduce stress on the neck during low-speed impacts from the rear, are incorporated in the structural design of the front seats, achieving class leading levels of safety performance.

Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System), Toyota's original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system, was implemented for the first time in the new Vitz, resulting in a reduction of environmental impact throughout the entire life cycle of the vehicle from production to disposal.

All front-wheel-drive vehicles achieve emission levels 75% lower than 2005 standards under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport’s Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles and boast fuel efficiency that exceeds by five percent the level called for by Japanese 2010 fuel efficiency standards.

Superior driving performance that achieves a comfortable and stable driving experience The 1.0-liter, 1.3-liter and 1.5-liter engines with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing–intelligent) simultaneously achieve high performance and high fuel efficiency.

The Super CVT-i achieves high fuel efficiency as well as a quiet and responsive drive (front-wheel-drive vehicles).

A newly developed ultra-compact torque converter realizes a smooth drive and high fuel efficiency.

Neutral control improves fuel efficiency by semi-releasing the clutch when the vehicle is stopped (with the shift lever in "D")

Traction control improves responsiveness to accelerator operation.

The newly developed suspension provides superior maneuverability and driving stability, as well as a comfortable ride.

The newly developed brake ensures excellent braking responsiveness and superior braking force.

The "Intelligent Package" (to become available in April 2005) will use the new Toyota Intelligent Idling Stop System to achieve the highest fuel efficiency level within the class.

Monthly sales target: 10,000 units

(Note to editors: The car will be known as the Toyota Yaris or Echo outside Japan)

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