From compact entry-level cars to “people connectors”, from racy concepts to sporty hatchbacks, Toyota rang the changes at the Johannesburg International Motor Show.

Innova

Built on Toyota’s Innovative International Multipurpose Vehicle platform, the Innova brings the company’s total number of model ranges to a staggering 17. However, although sharing a base with LCVs – the Hilux and Fortuner – the Innova was designed from the outset as a passenger vehicle: it rides on double wishbone independent front suspension with stabiliser bars and four-link rear suspension.

The Innova is available in either 7- or 8-seat configuration, both versions being powered by the same 118 kW 2,7-litre VVT-i four-cylinder petrol engine. Fuel consumption is 11,2 litres/100 km on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions are at 265 g/km.

This is no basic bus, either: the woodgrain inserts and optional leather trim are the immediately visible signs of a comprehensive features list that includes a multi-information display, electric windows, steering wheel controls for the audio, Bluetooth and dual climate control that pipes air to the rear.

There are plenty of fold/tumble options for seating configurations, and the third row of seats, which is good for occasional trips for adults, folds sideways like the Fortuner’s. The 7-seater gets a pair of middle-row “captain’s chairs”.

Driver and passenger airbags are standard, as is ABS braking. Pricing is pretty competitive, starting at under R250 000.

Etios Toyota used the Johannesburg International Motor Show to offer the first glimpse of its Etios entry level hatchback and sedan, which is set for local introduction in 2012. The Indian-built Etios will be offered with sedan or hatch back body style. Its all-new 1,5-litre petrol engine delivers 66 kW at 5 600 r/min and 132 N.m at 3 000 r/min. Fuel consumption is quoted as 6 litres/100 km on average.

The engine is rated to deliver an average of 6 litres/100 km in an average usage cycle.

Aimed at the budget-conscious buyer, the Etios will be offered in a wide range of specifications, with a service plan as standard.

Auris TRD

On the back of the company’s showing with the Auris in local rallying, Toyota has unveiled a supercharged version that revives the Toyota Racing Development (TRD) nameplate.

Engine power of the 1,6-litre Valvematic engine is boosted to 133 kW at 6 400 r/min, while torque is upped to 202 N.m at 5 200 r/min. A 6-speed gearbox is standard, as is a TRD Sportivo Suspension kit.

Externally, the Auris TRD wears the same body kit as the SportX version, which it replaces.

Auris Hybrid Synergy Drive

0,07 may not sound like much. But in the race for economy oneupmanship, it’s plenty. So, the new-look front end for the Britishbuilt HSD is not just about cosmetics: in conjunction with a sleeker grille and a redesigned front bumper and underbody, the new nose helps cut drag coefficient of this vehicle from 0,29 to 0,283, contributing to lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Powered by a version of Toyota’s Prius Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the Auris HSD has a drivetrain with electric motor, generator and power split device housed in a single transmission casing that is the size of a conventional gearbox.

The four-cylinder 1,8-litre Atkinson Cycle engine develops 72 kW, and is partnered by a synchronous 60 kW electric motor that generates peak torque of 207 N.m. The overall effect, Toyota says, is like driving a 2-litre diesel.