Latest news with #ToyotaNewZealand
NZ Autocar
a day ago
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
V8 Cruiser finally finished
Toyota New Zealand has confirmed the death of the Land Cruiser 70 V8. Concrete pumpers and Southern farmers were seen wiping away the odd tear today as the news broke. Although they say it was merely a bit of dust on the retina causing their watery eyes. Toyota NZ has now reduced the LC 70 range to four core models, all powered by the 1GD four pot 2.8-litre diesel. This makes a similar amount of power as the V8 (150kW) and a lot more torque (500Nm v 430). But don't worry old timer, it's not a hybrid. However, it only comes hooked to an auto, which might not sit well with some. That the four cylinder LC emits less carbon dioxide per km will likely be lost on those living in the manosphere who think it's irrelevant what New Zealand does in the scheme of planetary emissions. Andrew Davis, Chief Strategic Officer, said the time had come to finally retire the V8-powered Land Cruiser 70. Read more 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 70 LT Double Cab review 'We acknowledge it was a legendary powertrain, but we are confident the complete switch to the 1GD four-cylinder and auto transmission gives a better option for customers. This powertrain will offer better in-use performance with a smoother operation and better ride quality which customers have been quick to praise' he says. The four grades of the LC 70 line up are the LT ute with either a two-door single cab or four-door double cab, the LX double cab ute and the LX wagon.
NZ Autocar
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Toyota New Zealand a Most Trusted Brand, yet again
Toyota New Zealand has once again been recognised as New Zealand's Most Trusted Car Brand in the 2025 Reader's Digest Trusted Brand Awards. Apparently this marks 20 consecutive years in the top spot. Toyota New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa says, 'Receiving this recognition for the 20th year is a proud moment for all of us at Toyota. It reflects the strong relationship we have built with New Zealanders through our commitment to quality, innovation, and service.' 'This milestone is a testament to the passion and hard work of everyone across our team, from design and manufacturing to sales and service, who strive every day to deliver high-quality vehicles and exceptional service at every stage of the customer journey.' Toyota also achieved the top ranking in the 2024 Kantar Corporate Reputation Index, which the firm says shows its reputation for trust, leadership, and responsibility. 'These recognitions reinforce the values Kiwis associate with Toyota: reliability, innovation, and care for our customers and communities,' says Ishikawa. Read more New Toyota RAV4 unveiled Toyota says its reputation also extends beyond passenger vehicles as its commercial fleet continues to support thousands of Kiwi businesses. It also acknowledges its nationwide network of Toyota Stores, service centres, and the National Customer Centre in Palmerston North which ensures localised support. 'Ongoing loyalty and connections with our customers are what drives us forward,' says Ishikawa. 'We're committed to being a trusted partner for Kiwis, finding a mobility solution for every occasion.'
Scoop
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scoop
‘Veteran' Zeltwanger Aiming For Winter Success Aboard Toyota 86
Press Release – Toyota New Zealand With fifteen years of experience in the sport at the age of just 23, Massey racer Lee Zeltwanger has plenty of experience to take into a winter campaign in the Toyota 86 Trophy Series. An all-round sports fanatic who also plays seven-a-side and eleven-a-side soccer, Lee is a graduate in sports exercise, nutrition and management and likes working on the cars he races as well as driving them. He's had plenty of success in those 15 years on the motorsport scene too, as he explained. 'I have been in motorsport for 15 years, and started when I was seven years old in karts. In 2018 I moved away from karts and into car racing starting in the BMW Race Driver Series in the E30 class. 'I enjoyed racing in that for three years and then moved into the BMW E46 class for another three seasons. Some highlights were definitely winning the North Island Championship in 2014 in the Junior restricted class and winning the Kapellen Trophy in Rotax mini in Switzerland in 2012. I won City of Sails, was second at the CIK trophy of NZ, was Auckland club champion and won races in both the BMW E30 and E46 classes. 'Now, though, I have my eyes set on the Toyota 86 Trophy Series.' All-rounder Zeltwanger will run his own Toyota 86 in the four round series, which begins this weekend at Hampton Downs and he is determined to do well against high quality opposition. 'My objective is of course to try win the series but also be consistent and finish every race to maximise points,' he added. 'Another objective is winning the scholarship that is available to the winner to do a season in the new Toyota 86 cars in the Bridgestone GR86 Championship. That would be amazing.' Lee will contest the series, which also races at Manfeild and at Taupo International Motorsport Park twice, with the help of Timberworld East Tamaki, Euro West Limited, Solimara NZ Ltd, SKUNKWORKS and the Automoves Racing Team. 2025 Toyota 86 Trophy Series Rd1 9-10 May 2025 Hampton Downs – NZIGP Finale Rd2 21-22 June 2025 Taupo Int. Motorsport Park – Taupo Winter Series Rd3 5-6 July 2025 Manfeild – Circuit Chris Amon – Manfeild Winter Series Rd4 26-27 July 2025 Taupo Int. Motorsport Park – Taupo Winter Series
NZ Autocar
08-05-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Facelifted Toyota Corolla Cross arrives with new GR Sport variant
Toyota is giving its Corolla Cross a makeover for 2025, complete with updated styling, tech enhancements across the range and a new GR Sport variant topping the lineup. Available soon, the Corolla Cross receives a refreshed front bumper and grille design, new exterior colours and upgraded equipment levels. The GR Sport variant (pictured below, and arriving around August) replaces the current Limited AWD model and brings with it some dynamic enhancements. According to Andrew Davis, Toyota New Zealand's Chief Strategic Officer, the Corolla Cross has carved out a niche in the local compact SUV market by combining the practicality of a small SUV with the dependability of the Corolla nameplate. 'The Corolla Cross has been a welcome addition to the Corolla family, bringing all the attributes of the legendary and reliable Corolla with the convenience of a higher ride and extra cargo space,' Davis said. While the front-wheel-drive GX, GXL, and Limited variants gain new styling and safety updates, the GX and GXL now benefit from additional driver assistance features. The newly introduced GR Sport AWD variant stands out with performance-focused tweaks and a sharper visual identity. Read more 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross GXL Hybrid review Under the bonnet, the GR Sport continues with the 2.0-litre petrol-hybrid powertrain found across the Corolla Cross range, but gains a double wishbone rear suspension and refinements to the electric power steering for improved handling. Visually, the GR Sport sets itself apart with 19-inch black and machined alloys, red brake calipers, GR-exclusive front bumper and grille and dark exterior accents. Inside, it's treated to GR-branded suede and leather-accented seats, aluminium pedals, paddle shifters, and gunmetal trim. Meanwhile, the GX model gets a fresh honeycomb bumper and grille treatment, upgraded parking support with new sensors and braking assist, and dual-zone climate control. The GXL now includes a wireless phone charger, heated front seats, rain-sensing wipers, and a Vehicle Approach Notice system for added pedestrian safety. The Limited grade, now only available in front-wheel drive, receives ventilated front seats, fabric and leather-accented upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a hands-free power tailgate. Local pricing and full specifications will be confirmed closer to the model's arrival in New Zealand in the second half of 2025.
NZ Autocar
04-05-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Toyota NZ drives New Zealand rugby
Toyota New Zealand has announced a major sponsorship deal, becoming the Official Training Kit Partner for New Zealand Rugby. In a three-year agreement, Toyota will be the official vehicle partner for all national rugby teams, including the All Blacks, Black Ferns, Māori All Blacks, and Sevens sides. Toyota branding will appear on training kits and during test matches. NZR CEO Mark Robinson says the tie-up is a natural fit. 'Much like rugby, Toyota is deeply embedded in the fabric of New Zealand life. 'Having a global partnership with a New Zealand-based organisation of this calibre presents a significant opportunity to collaborate, as we support our national teams and advance New Zealand's national sport.' Toyota New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa (third from right). Toyota NZ CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa echoed those sentiments, calling it a proud moment. 'Sport is a powerful connector, and we are excited to work with NZR to engage even more meaningfully with our local communities.' The deal kicks off in June with the Māori All Blacks debuting the new-look training kit in their 28 June clash in Japan.
