Another Toyota model will adopt the shark-nosed front design of the Prius: the Toyota Corolla facelift.
According to images provided by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China, this C-segment sedan features C-shaped headlights, a slimmer grille structure, and a redesigned front bumper.
The side profile of the sedan remains largely unchanged, except for sportier rims exclusive to the higher-end variants.
The rear light housing appears slightly darker, while the Corolla HEV variant showcases the regular Toyota logo, replacing the blue logo seen on previous models.
Customers in China will still have the option to purchase the Corolla facelift with a 2.0L petrol engine producing 169 hp or a 1.8L hybrid engine generating 121 hp.
For now, the Prius-inspired facelift of the Corolla is specific to the Chinese market.
After three years since the introduction of the fourth-generation Vios, Toyota Thailand has finally announced the arrival of a hybrid (HEV) variant for this B-segment sedan.
The introduction of the HEV variant will complement the existing Yaris Ativ offering, where the non-hybrid version comes only with a 1.2-liter engine producing 94 PS and 110 Nm.
What You Need to Know About the Toyota Vios HEV:
1. Powertrain
The Vios hybrid variant is equipped with a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with the code 2NR-VEX, generating 91 PS and 121 Nm. This is paired with an 80 PS electric motor producing 141 Nm and a lithium-ion battery pack.
The total power output reaches 111 PS, distributed to the front wheels via an E-CVT transmission.
Three driving modes are provided: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
According to Toyota, the Yaris Ativ HEV is capable of achieving a fuel consumption rate of approximately 3.6 liters per 100 km.
2. Exterior Changes
Only two hybrid variants are offered in the Thai market: Premium and GR Sport.
Roughly, not many changes are noted in the exterior of the Yaris Ativ HEV Premium, aside from the new 16-inch wheel design, HEV logo, and dark chrome finish on the upper grille and metallic grey on the lower section of the front grille.
A hidden change is that the fuel tank now has a capacity of 36 liters.
3. Yaris Ativ HEV GR Sport
This variant stands out with a sportier body kit, including a redesigned front bumper, new 17-inch alloy wheels, a more prominent rear diffuser, and a black rear spoiler.
Additionally, it features recalibrated suspension, complete with front and rear stabilizer bars, and a revised electric steering system.
4. Interior
Standard features of the Yaris Ativ HEV include synthetic leather seats, a 64-color ambient lighting system, automatic climate control, PM2.5 air filtration, and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Yaris Ativ HEV GR Sport also includes a GR logo trim and a Pioneer audio system with six speakers.
5. Safety Features & Pricing
Lastly, the safety equipment includes Toyota Safety Sense, which consists of adaptive cruise control (ACC) with Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and six airbags.
In the Thai market, the Yaris Ativ HEV is priced starting at THB 719,000 (approximately RM93,131), while the GR Sport variant is priced at THB 769,000 (approximately RM99,608).
ASEAN NCAP has announced that Toyota Yaris Cross has successfully achieved a five-star rating in the new vehicle assessment tests conducted.
In the evaluation, the Toyota Yaris Cross received an overall score of 83.02 points, assessed based on four categories:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) – 36.36/40.00
Child Occupant Protection (COP) – 17.32/20.00
Safety Assistance (SA) – 16.89/20.00
Motorcycle Safety (MS) – 12.21/20.00
Depending on the market, the Toyota Yaris Cross, specially designed for the ASEAN market (excluding Singapore, which receives the TNGA Yaris Cross model), is equipped with standard safety features such as six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS, seatbelt reminder (SBR) for front and rear passengers, and pedestrian protection technology.
Several advanced functions are also included, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD) for both left and right sides, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), and Automatic High Beams (AHB).
Take a look at the image above. Malaysia is listed in the production schedule dedicated to the ASEAN market.
Does this mean the Yaris Cross will be arriving in Malaysia soon?
The recent 2025 Toyota Start Your Impossible (SYI) Outrun event drew over 6,500 participants to the grounds of Dataran Wawasan Putrajaya on July 27.
The fourth edition of the SYI Outrun successfully raised RM200,000, which will be donated to the National Cancer Society of Malaysia (NCSM).
Since 2020, Toyota has raised over RM500,000 for this organization.
According to Datuk Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor, “Mobility is more than just transportation; it is about empowering people in every sense.
“SYI Outrun serves as a strong reminder of the positive change we inspire when we move with purpose.
“Today, Malaysians from various backgrounds came together for a common goal of bringing hope, and this is the true spirit of Start Your Impossible.”
For the first time, SYI Outrun introduced a 21KM half marathon category alongside the existing 10KM and 5KM categories.
In addition to experienced runners, the event also featured cancer survivors and members of the Little Fighter Runners club, as well as Bikeisable.
Besides the run, a variety of exciting activities were offered through interactive booths by NCSM, N8 Sports Nutrition, a percussion performance, free health checks, and an exhibition of Toyota vehicles.
The top 10 winners in the 10KM and 21KM categories took home prizes valued at RM138,000, with additional lucky draw prizes worth over RM19,000, including a Sony Bravia TV, a Garmin Forerunner Triathlon watch, and a PlayStation 5 console.
Looking for a robust and stylish workhorse that isn’t a pickup truck? Toyota Europe has the answer for you.
Introducing the Toyota Land Cruiser, a light commercial vehicle (LCV) specification specifically for the UK market, built at the Burnaston Toyota factory in Derbyshire.
The Land Cruiser LCV is aimed at professionals seeking off-road capability, with a closed cargo capacity of 2,000 liters.
The original second-row seating has been removed and replaced with a steel panel, a flat cargo floor, and a divider between the cargo space and the front cabin.
Additionally, Toyota has equipped this Land Cruiser LCV with 18-inch alloy wheels, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, heated seats and steering wheel, as well as a powered tailgate with an opening glass window.
Not to be missed are features like an auto-dimming rearview mirror, electronic parking brake, dual-zone climate control, a 9-inch infotainment screen, and Toyota’s Safety Sense safety equipment.
In terms of power, the panel version of the Land Cruiser is powered by a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine matched with a full-time four-wheel drive system—there are no changes in power (201 hp/500 Nm), off-road capability, towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons, and water wading capability of up to 700 mm.
According to Toyota, the Land Cruiser LCV will be available for sale this August, with a starting price of £51,729 (approximately RM299,000).
Toyota has also announced an update to the existing Land Cruiser offerings, where the 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine will be replaced with a 48V mild hybrid unit that adds 16 hp and 65 Nm.
This mild hybrid version is said to provide a quieter, smoother, and more responsive engine while also reducing CO2 emissions compared to the previous configuration.
Less than two years after its introduction, Toyota has announced an update to the ultra-luxurious Century SUV model.
A new feature included in the 2026 Century SUV is the privacy glass for rear passengers, which offers three adjustable levels (clear glass, semi-transparent, and fully opaque) using a special film layer.
The special material sandwiched between two layers of glass is said to be difficult to see with the naked eye and can block up to 99 percent of ultraviolet rays.
However, the same technology has not been applied to the panoramic glass roof.
This feature aims to ensure that the privacy of rear passengers (VIPs) is better maintained throughout the journey while simultaneously not sacrificing natural light – similar to a traditional Japanese room.
As a vehicle dedicated to transporting dignitaries, the rear seats of the Century SUV can be reclined nearly flat for a more comfortable resting position.
Not to be outdone, the long list of amenities includes foldable footrests, ambient lighting, an 18-speaker audio system, coat hooks, and a separate infotainment system.
As an answer to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, the Toyota Century SUV is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 PHEV engine capable of producing 406 hp, with a zero-emission range of 69 km.
The retail price of the Toyota Century SUV in Japan now starts from 27 million yen (RM784,839).
Toyota continues to strengthen its position in the hybrid segment with the introduction of the 2026 Land Cruiser HEV model.
Launched for the Middle Eastern market, the Land Cruiser 300 Series is powered by a self-charging hybrid system, which consists of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine and a single electric motor.
Overall, the Land Cruiser HEV is capable of generating 457 hp and torque of up to 790 Nm, making it the most powerful Land Cruiser variant currently available.
This power is transferred to the four-wheel drive system via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of appearance, not much has changed except for the updated front bumper design, which is specific to this variant.
The rear features the “457 TT” and “HEV” emblems, indicating that it is a hybrid SUV.
The cabin space has also seen minor changes, with an updated instrument cluster now featuring specific graphics alongside a 12.3-inch infotainment screen.
A notable difference from the standard Land Cruiser model is the smaller fuel tank capacity, which is approximately 68 liters compared to 80 liters in the regular model.
Lastly, a power outlet is provided in the rear cargo area.
In the UAE, the Toyota Land Cruiser HEV is priced starting from AED 389,900 (approximately RM 450,000) for the VXR trim, and AED 409,900 (approximately RM 473,000) for the GR Sport trim.
With the introduction of the GR Supra A90 Final Edition, it signals the impending end of this sports car model.
Production for the fifth generation of the GR Supra is scheduled to conclude in the spring of 2026.
For context, the Toyota GR Supra is the ‘twin’ model to the BMW Z4, with both models being exclusively assembled at the Magna Steyr factory in Austria.
With the end of production for the BMW Z4, there is little reason for the manufacturer to continue producing the GR Supra, especially since both sports cars are low-volume models.
The good news is that the legacy of the GR Supra will be continued with the arrival of a new generation model.
This was confirmed by Cooper Ericksen, Senior Vice President of Product Planning and Strategy at Toyota North America, in an interview with MotorTrend.
“It makes sense for us to have a new generation Supra. However, when and how it will happen is still undetermined.”
“For this new model, there will definitely be a time gap. The question is, how significant will that time gap be?” he added.
This question is quite valid, as the GR Supra A90 made its debut after a long hiatus, with nearly two decades passing since the production of the A80 model was discontinued in 2002.
“Our goal is to minimize that time gap for the new generation GR Supra.”
He further explained that the existing GR Supra has reached a stage where it now has a Final Edition model and the reasoning is simple: the investment is no longer worth it to continue meeting increasingly stringent regulations.
“The new GR Supra needs a new home (platform). The question at this point is, when can we obtain that new home to build it?”
Eriksen emphasized that the company is committed to producing the new generation GR Supra “with or without a partner.”
“We have to wait and see. Our dream is to create a fantastic new generation product that will be loved by our fans.”
Here it is—the sixth generation of Toyota’s compact SUV RAV4 has just been launched globally.
Built on the latest platform of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the RAV4 features styling that is more in line with the existing model lineup such as the bZ, Camry, and Prius.
What do you need to know about the RAV4 2026?
1. Variants
Toyota offers three main variants:
Core – Urban styling
Adventure – A bolder appearance with off-road friendliness
GR Sport – A more engaging driving experience
2. Dimensions
Compared to the previous generation, the new RAV4 is significantly longer at 4,600 mm, while maintaining a width of 1,855 mm and a wheelbase of 2,690 mm.
The Adventure and GR Sport variants come with a wider measurement of 1,880 mm.
3. HEV and PHEV Powertrain Options
The new generation RAV4 is available only in hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.
The RAV4 HEV is powered by a 2.5-liter engine with an option for front-wheel drive (FWD) producing 226 hp or all-wheel drive (AWD) producing 236 hp.
The PHEV variant, on the other hand, is equipped only with an AWD system, achieving a total power of 320 hp and an emissions-free range of up to 150 km.
Additionally, the RAV4 PHEV supports vehicle-to-home (V2H) functionality, fast DC charging (up to 80% charge in 30 minutes), as well as improved off-road driving performance.
4. Exterior Design
Like other modern Toyota vehicles, the RAV4 features a shark-inspired front design.
The rear light housing is designed with simpler LED graphics, and the word “RAV4” is centered on it.
Depending on specifications, there are wheel size options of 17, 18, or 20 inches.
5. Cabin Space
With a dashboard structure that is 40 mm lower, the RAV4 offers a wider field of vision.
Utilizing an island architecture approach, the RAV4’s dashboard is designed to facilitate the driver’s access to the screen and essential function buttons, while minimizing eye movement during driving.
Unique features in the RAV4 cabin include a central console cover that can serve as an armrest or a tray for placing items.
The cargo space in the RAV4 now boasts a capacity of 749 liters, which is 16 liters larger than the previous model.
Finally, the RAV4 is Toyota’s first model to utilize the Arene software developed by Woven by Toyota, encompassing both infotainment system operations and advanced safety features of Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0).
6. RAV4 Adventure
Compared to the simpler Core model, the RAV4 Adventure offers unique features such as:
Wider dimensions
More prominent body protection plastics
Simpler wheel design
A more squared-off front bumper
Larger, vertical grille openings
A taller nose structure
Roof rail fittings
7. RAV4 GR Sport
Also noteworthy is the GR Sport variant, designed for those seeking a combination of practicality and a more thrilling driving experience in one package.
In terms of appearance, the RAV4 GR Sport is given an aggressive bumper featuring both a front spoiler and a rear spoiler to enhance aerodynamics and handling stability.
The RAV4 GR Sport also benefits from a wider track (+20 mm), special suspension and steering tuning, and a lighter aluminum wheelset.
8. TSS 4.0 System
The Toyota RAV4 is also the first Toyota model to feature TSS 4.0 safety equipment.
Among the new features included in the RAV4 are a sudden acceleration prevention system and an emergency driving stop system (EDSS) in case of any unforeseen circumstances involving the driver.
In addition to the bZ model, Toyota America has launched another electric SUV designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the bZ Woodland.
The Toyota bZ Woodland fundamentally shares the same platform as the previously introduced Subaru Trailseeker.
Compared to the standard bZ model, the bZ Woodland features larger dimensions, measuring 4,830 mm in length (+140 mm), 1,860 mm in width, 1,670 mm in height (+20 mm), and a wheelbase of 2,850 mm.
These dimensional changes contribute to a larger cargo space, around 850 liters.
Additionally, the ground clearance has increased by 2.54 mm to 210 mm, thanks to the use of higher suspension.
This mid-size SUV can tow a weight of 1,588 kg and can be equipped with All-Terrain tires.
Toyota has also streamlined the offerings for the bZ Woodland, which is only available in a dual electric motor configuration producing 375 hp.
Acceleration performance has not been disclosed; however, it is noted that the Subaru Trailseeker can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.
The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is complemented by a driving mode selection known as X-Mode and a Grip-Control feature for enhanced off-road performance.
The 74.7 kWh battery pack allows this SUV to be driven up to 418 km and supports NACS plug charging for compatibility with the Tesla Supercharger network.
Fast DC charging takes only 30 minutes to go from 10 to 80 percent state of charge (SoC).
The exterior appearance of the bZ Woodland resembles that of the standard bZ model, except for the addition of black body cladding, 18-inch aluminum wheels with removable covers, and roof rails.
The rear features a more minimalist light housing, followed by a Woodland badge on the tailgate.
Inside, the bZ Woodland cabin includes a 14-inch central screen, a wireless smartphone charging slot, USB Type-C charging ports, and SofTex-wrapped seating with heating functions for the front row.
There is also a Premium package that adds a JBL audio system, a panoramic glass roof, a digital rearview mirror, and front seat ventilation.
Lastly, the Toyota Safety Sense features a suite of safety functions, including a Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), Automatic High Beams (AHB), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), Safe Exit Alert (SEA), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), and a Surround View Camera system.
Toyota’s electric SUV is now presented with a new, simpler name that rolls off the tongue more easily: the Toyota bZ.
For the 2026 model year, several enhancements have been made, particularly in terms of driving range to alleviate range anxiety among owners.
There are two battery pack options available: 57.7 kWh and 74.7 kWh.
The base front-wheel drive (FWD) version with 168 hp and a 57.7 kWh battery can now travel up to 380 km (EPA data).
There is also a more powerful FWD variant (221 hp) which has an impressive range of up to 505 km when paired with the 74.7 kWh battery pack.
Toyota also offers an all-wheel drive (AWD) version with 338 hp, capable of covering up to 463 km on a full charge.
Notably, the 2026 Toyota bZ is now equipped with a North American Charging Standard (NACS) plug, allowing owners to charge their vehicles at Tesla Supercharger stations at a capacity of up to 150 kW.
Unlike the bZ4X model, the bZ now features a more streamlined front fascia similar to that of the Camry and Prius.
The previously black-painted wheel arch protective plastics have now been color-matched to the body of the vehicle.
Upon entering the cabin, one will find a redesigned center console that includes a slot for wireless smartphone charging and a 14.0-inch infotainment screen.
Additional features include SofTex upholstery, a six-speaker audio system with an option for a JBL Premium nine-speaker audio system, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 safety features.
Toyota has introduced a facelifted version of the Corolla Cross in several Southeast Asian markets since last year.
However, for the European market, the SUV now comes with a much bolder appearance, especially for the GR Sport variant, which is being launched in the continent for the first time.
Starting with the standard version, this facelifted Corolla Cross features a redesigned bumper accompanied by a honeycomb grille structure.
Unlike models for other markets, the 2026 Corolla Cross is equipped with sharper graphic LED headlights, followed by the introduction of a horizontal LED light bar.
The taillights also feature new graphic designs, while all four wheel arches are adorned with new 18-inch rims.
Inside the cabin, there is a 10.5-inch central screen, a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, a larger center console featuring a new gear knob, and a faster wireless smartphone charger.
Additionally, Apple CarPlay support is also available.
Toyota promises a quieter ride, thanks to improvements made in sound insulation to reduce noise and vibrations.
The highest variant will come with ambient lighting, as well as heated seats and a heated steering wheel.
As mentioned, this is the first time Toyota has introduced the GR Sport variant for the Corolla Cross in Europe.
This bolder appearance is largely inspired by the bumpers of the GR Yaris and the facelifted GR Corolla.
In addition, the Corolla Cross GR Sport is also equipped with sportier 19-inch rims, a suspension that is 10 mm lower, as well as recalibrated power steering and the addition of paddle shifters as standard features.
Toyota adds a Sport Mode feature for quicker acceleration, along with a Snow Extra mode for improved control and stability during winter.
In Europe, the Corolla Cross will be available in Hybrid 140 or Hybrid 200 specifications.
The base Hybrid 140 features a 1.8-liter hybrid engine capable of producing 138 hp, while the Hybrid 200 variant comes with a 2.0-liter hybrid engine with a power output of up to 194 hp.
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has forged a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Transport Malaysia (MOT) to drive green mobility initiatives.
As a show of strong support, UMWT has delivered five electrified vehicles, including hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) such as the Toyota Alphard, Camry, and Corolla Cross, as well as two battery electric vehicles (BEVs), the Toyota bZ4X and Lexus RZ.
Through this initiative, the MOT has the opportunity to assess the true capabilities of these vehicles concerning suitability, performance, and benefits for daily use.
Additionally, UMWT will provide comprehensive hands-on learning opportunities for MOT officials, covering aspects from infrastructure readiness, user experience to operational efficiency across various platforms.
According to Datuk Ravindran K, President of UMW Toyota Motor, “Malaysia’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is not just an empty vision, but a collective mission that demands close collaboration across all sectors.”
“Through the ‘Multipathway Toyota’ approach, electrification is not merely viewed as an innovation, but is also adapted in an inclusive and pragmatic manner according to the needs, readiness, and capabilities of various segments of society.”
“With this approach, every layer of society is given the opportunity to move forward together towards a greener and more sustainable future—no one will be left behind, no one will be marginalized,” he further stated.
While full electrification remains a long-term aspiration for the country, hybrid technology emerges as an effective solution to minimize carbon emissions without requiring drastic changes to existing infrastructure or consumer habits.
According to Mohd Shamsor Mohd Zain, Executive Director of UMW Toyota Motor, “Hybrid technology continues to be a key driver in Toyota’s electrification plan, particularly in the context of markets like Malaysia.”
“Its ability to reduce carbon emissions immediately without necessitating major changes to the supporting ecosystem makes it the most ideal option.”
“It not only offers practical solutions but also builds confidence among mainstream consumers while paving a smoother and more progressive path towards a fully electric mobility future.”
UMW Toyota Motor has officially announced the opening of registrations for the annual Toyota Eco Youth 2025 event.
Supported by the Ministry of Education Malaysia (MOE), this initiative encourages secondary school students nationwide to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to environmental issues.
This year’s 24th edition doubles the number of participants to 30 schools, increasing the funding to RM167,000, with each selected school receiving a grant of RM3,000.
Students will also have the chance to compete for cash prizes totaling RM77,000 across various categories: RM30,000 for the champion, RM20,000 for the first runner-up, RM10,000 for the second runner-up, and RM5,000 each for sub-categories such as Best Social Media Campaign, Best Presentation, and Best Exhibition, as well as RM2,000 for the Best Advisor Teacher category.
Since its introduction in 2001, Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) has benefited nearly 600 schools and more than 300,000 students across Malaysia, guiding them in developing critical skills to drive change within their communities.
The effectiveness of this annual program is evident as TEY participants successfully present innovative ideas that can be translated into real projects that have a positive impact on society.
For example, a group of students developed a system that not only reduces agricultural waste but also improves local waste disposal methods, enhancing community health and environmental sustainability in Kuala Bikam.
In Penang, marine pollution issues have been addressed through community-based cleaning programs that help restore the marine ecosystem.
In Sarawak, a group of students introduced sustainable agricultural practices that reduce reliance on harmful chemicals, while promoting long-term environmental conservation efforts.
All these successes stem from the unique application of Toyota’s 8-Step Problem Solving Methodology (PSM), which equips students with systematic problem-solving skills that enable them to identify issues in-depth, understand root causes, and devise practical and sustainable solutions.
“Toyota Eco Youth is not just about raising awareness of environmental issues—it’s about taking action,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
“By doubling the number of participating schools and allocating a larger fund, we are offering more opportunities for students to devise innovative solutions that can propel Malaysia towards a more sustainable future.
“We are excited to see how this year’s participants will create change and inspire the community with their ideas,” he added.
Interested schools can register at the link https://bit.ly/TEY2025_RegisterNow before April 3, 2025, while the official launch event, workshops, and opening ceremony will take place from April 28 to April 30, 2025.
The sixteenth generation of the Toyota Crown family is now available in Sedan, Crossover, and Sport versions.
If you’re looking for a much more practical Crown, the Crown Estate is the answer you need.
Toyota Japan has officially begun sales of the Crown Estate, which comes with the option of a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain.
Both systems utilize a 2.5-liter engine (code A25A-FXS) paired with two electric motors and an E-Four all-wheel-drive system.
In the Crown Estate HEV, the front motor output is enhanced by 50 percent compared to the Crossover and Sport models, aimed at improving acceleration, especially when carrying passengers.
Meanwhile, the Estate PHEV version is equipped with a lithium-ion battery pack that allows for a zero-emission driving range of up to 89 km.
Built on the TNGA-K platform, the Toyota Crown Estate measures 4,930 mm in length, 1,880 mm in width, 1,625 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm.
The suspension system features MacPherson struts in the front, followed by Multi-link setup in the rear.
Driving dynamics are enhanced with the inclusion of a Dynamic Rear Steering (DRS) system for more agile handling, as well as Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) to ensure passengers remain comfortable and enjoy a high-quality ride.
The exterior design of the Crown Estate follows the design language shared with its siblings.
The front features hammerhead shark-like elements with thinner daytime running lights, a neatly integrated grille structure in the bumper, and 21-inch wheels.
The cabin layout is similar to what is featured in the Crossover, Sport, and Sedan models, with a 12.3-inch cluster display paired with a similarly sized infotainment screen.
Using an island architecture, the dashboard layout is designed to minimize eye movement during driving.
The Crown Estate’s cargo space can accommodate up to 570 liters of goods, or up to 1,470 liters with the second-row seats folded flat.
Toyota also offers special items for this model, including seat cushions and a small table to use in that space, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.
In Japan, the Toyota Crown Estate is priced starting at 6,350,000 yen (RM190,457) for the HEV version, and can reach up to 8,100,000 yen (RM242,945) for the PHEV version.
Alongside the C-HR+, Toyota Motor Europe has also introduced another electric vehicle, though this one is significantly more teeny and occupies only half a parking space.
Known as the FT-Me, it is a concept vehicle that embodies Toyota’s vision for all-electric micromobility that combines premium design with affordability.
The EV is indeed very small, measuring less than 2.5 metres in length and featuring just two seats. Its rather eccentric design is inspired by a jet helmet, and most components you see here are made using recycled materials, helping to reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%.
Battery specifications have not been disclosed but according to Toyota, its propulsion system consumes three times less energy per kilometre than a high-capacity battery electric car.
The propulsion system is complemented by solar panels on the roof that can add an extra 20 to 30 km of range, depending on weather conditions.
In addition to being small enough to fit in the narrow European streets, the FT-Me can be operated via hand controls, making it usable to wheelchair users without any aftermarket modification.
It is uncertain whether the FT-Me is intended for production, but Toyota states that the vehicle is designed for people with entry-level driving licences, including those as young as 14 years old in some markets.
This means that the FT-Me will be classified as a quadricycle, similar to the Citroën Ami and Opel Rocks-e, if it ever sees the light of day.
Toyota now has a new electric vehicle (EV) model, and it no longer uses the ‘bZ’ prefix seen in models like the bZ4X and bZ3.
Instead, it adopts the existing name, C-HR+.
Although it carries the C-HR+ name, this electric vehicle does not share the same platform as the standard C-HR; rather, it utilizes the e-TNGA 2.0 platform, which is the same as that of the bZ4X.
This is evidenced by its length of 4,520 mm and a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, significantly larger than the second-generation C-HR.
For the European market, the C-HR is available in a single electric motor version with 165 hp, offering acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 8.6 seconds, a 57.7 kWh battery pack, and a driving range of 455 km.
A more powerful version produces 221 hp with a swift 0-100 km/h time of 7.4 seconds, accompanied by a 77 kWh battery pack that allows for a range of up to 600 km.
There is also an all-wheel-drive version equipped with two electric motors, generating 338 hp and achieving acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds. With the same 77 kWh battery pack, this AWD variant can travel up to 525 km.
In terms of exterior design, the C-HR+ closely resembles the standard C-HR, with the exception of more streamlined taillights, a roof spoiler, and a ducktail spoiler at the rear.
Standard features for the C-HR+ include AC charging at 11 kW (or up to 22 kW) as well as DC fast charging of up to 150 kW.
To ensure optimal charging operation, the C-HR+ is equipped with a battery pre-conditioning system that can be activated manually or automatically.
Inside the cabin, there is a 14-inch infotainment display complete with physical control knobs, dual wireless device charging slots, and a mapping navigation system capable of identifying charging points based on the SUV’s driving range.
Finally, the C-HR+ is equipped with advanced safety features as standard, including a blind spot monitoring system, adaptive high beam assistance, and parking brake support.
Features such as a surround-view monitoring system and parking assistance are reserved for the more premium variants.
According to Toyota, the C-HR+ is set to launch in several selected European markets by late 2025.
We’re accustomed to hearing about Toyota’s success, particularly regarding sales performance and customer reliability.
However, in Japan, Toyota reportedly topped the charts for the most stolen vehicles throughout 2024, dominating the top ten spots!
According to data from the Japan General Insurance Association, the Toyota Land Cruiser (including the Prado model) has topped the list for the fourth consecutive year.
In 2024, there were 688 reported Land Cruiser thefts, accounting for 27.5 percent of every 100 vehicles stolen.
This means more than one in four vehicles stolen were Land Cruiser models.
The Alphard minivan took second place with 289 cases, followed by the Toyota Prius (235) in third. The Lexus LX ranked fourth (109), the Lexus RX fifth (89), Toyota Crown (62), Toyota Hiace (43), Toyota Vellfire (38), Lexus LS (34), and finally, the Toyota Voxy (21).
According to the data, Land Cruiser thefts in 2024 increased significantly compared to 2023 (383 cases), contributing to a total of 2,499 theft cases overall.
To this date, the use of electric vehicles with hydrogen fuel cell systems (FCEVs) is still not as widespread compared to electric vehicles (EVs).
Take, for instance, the Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen-powered sedan that has been available since 2014, with over 28,000 units sold in more than 30 countries.
This is a relatively small figure.
However, in addition to the passenger car market, Toyota has also been supplying this fuel cell system for other uses, such as buses, trains, and stationary power generation systems since 2019.
Looking ahead, Toyota still believes that this hydrogen system can serve as a better alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs.
The third-generation fuel cell system was officially introduced recently, promising a more compact unit and a driving range that is 20 percent longer (up to 772 kilometers).
Furthermore, Toyota claims that this third-generation system can achieve durability comparable to that of diesel engines while offering maintenance-free design benefits.
Through innovations in cell design and manufacturing processes, this system is also cheaper to produce, contributing to a more affordable sales price.
The third-generation fuel cell system will not only be used for the passenger vehicle segment but is also expected to be expanded to the heavy-duty commercial vehicle segment for markets in Japan, Europe, North America, and China by 2026.
UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) continues its strong performance in the Malaysian automotive market with total sales of 5,383 units for the month of January 2025.
With an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, UMWT says it is well-positioned to build on this momentum as the year progresses.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor said the company’s strong start to 2025 reflects its dedication to delivering exceptional vehicles that meet the evolving needs of customers.
“This achievement is a testament to the trust our customers place in us, and we remain dedicated to exceeding expectations by delivering advanced vehicles and unparalleled ownership experiences.
“With continuous innovation and exciting new models, we are committed to shaping the future of mobility in Malaysia,” he added.
Central to this effort is the Gazoo Racing (GR) brand, which has been expanded with the launch of the 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla and Corolla GR Sport during the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) Season 7 closing ceremony recently.
UMWT says the GR brand has been well-received by both driving enthusiasts and mainstream customers, reinforcing its position as Toyota’s dedicated performance division.
In the meantime, UMWT is making 2025 even more exciting with attractive promotional savings, including promos worth up to RM8,500, with a monthly payment from as low as RM658.
Additionally, the Toyota Service Savers programme continues to provide peace of mind with cost-effective maintenance plans starting at just RM33 per month.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
